With three Need for Speed titles on the way this year following EA’s decision to drastically alter the way it handles its successful racing franchise, the publisher has dated the ‘core’ title of the trio – Need for Speed: Shift.

Its arrival on Xbox 360 and PS3 on September 18th in Europe (and September 22nd in North America) represents an earlier than usual arrival for the racer, which traditionally arrives at retail every year in November, giving its great chance of capturing the annual Christmas number one crown.

Shift takes the series in a new simulation-orientated direction for the first time, basing the experience around authentic cockpit views and real-world physics. The title is currently in development at Slightly Mad Studios, many of whom’s members were involved in the development of hardcore sim GT Legends and GTR 2.

Alongside Shift, also due for release this year is Wii and DS title Need for Speed: Nitro and PC MMO Need for Speed: World Online.