Electronic Arts has finally confirmed what we have heard whispers about for some time. The first title in the attempt to breathe new life into the Need for Speed franchise called Shift was so successful that it will get a sequel. The new title will be called Need for Speed: Shift 2 Unleashed, and will be developed by Slightly Mad studios that did the first Shift title.

Shift 2 will pickup where the first Shift title left off with a lot more of everything. The biggest improvement, however, might be the attention to what the developers are calling “authentic racing action” that is fueled by consulting with real drivers to capture the experience and deliver an authentic experience for the players.

The game is slated for release in the spring of 2011 and will feature an entire graphics overhaul with a brand new rendering engine to power the title. The title is in development for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC platforms. Slightly Mad looks to push Shift 2 into contention as one of the premier racing titles that is a benchmark in the genre.