Electronic Arts (EA) has just announced details of what is in store for the Need for Speed franchise over the next 12 months, as the franchise expands to new platforms and categories. Three NFS games in three racing genres: simulation, action and arcade are coming to a console, handheld or PC in 2009.

The first one is Need For Speed SHIFT, set for fall 2009, and which is being developed by Slightly Mad Studios in collaboration with executive producer Michael Mann at Black Box and EA Games Europe. NFS SHIFT features a realistic first-person cockpit view camera and an all-new crash mechanic, providing a new, simulation level entry in the traditionally action/arcade oriented series.

Need For Speed NITRO is a working title for now, and it’s developed by EA Montreal. It’s an arcade racing game developed for Wii and Nintendo DS, and gamers build up their boost as they drift and drag behind their opponents, trying to win the race. Furthermore, the game offers you the possibility to use licensed cars which can be fully customized.

Need For Speed World Online is co-developed by Black Box and EA Singapore and it’s designed exclusively for the PC. Beginning in Asia, this Play 4 Free action racing game will give players access to licensed cars, parts and multiple game modes. It’s scheduled for launch in late 2010 in North America and summer 2009 in Asia. More news will come in about three months.

It looks like a good period for NFS fans, as this is the first time EA announced three NFS projects. It remains to be seen if they will have the desired success.