Discovering a Radical New Racing Game: Wheel World
When attending the ID@Xbox Showcase at GDC, I never expected to come across a game like Wheel World. This unique open-world racing game, featuring an entity-possessed bike named Skully, has piqued my interest as it gears up for release on Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC later this year.
In Wheel World, players step into the shoes of Kat, a cyclist on a mission to save a realm filled with rival riders, spare parts, and quirky fast-travel options like portal potties. The game’s humor and lighthearted tone add to the overall experience, making it a refreshing take on traditional bike racing.
Exploring the world of Wheel World and searching for loot to customize your bike is a key feature of the game. Collecting spare parts allows players to tweak their ride, improving stats like speed and handling. Additionally, legendary parts offer unique powers to enhance the racing experience.
Building a reputation is essential in unlocking higher-leveled zones within the game. Players can earn reputation by challenging other riders or participating in races against rival bike gangs. The competitive aspect of the game adds to the overall excitement of riding through Wheel World.
From single rider challenges to intense pack races, the competitions in Wheel World provide a fun and engaging experience. Mastering drafting and boost techniques is crucial for success, while winning races earns players valuable coupons for bike shop upgrades.
The physics of bike handling in the game feel natural and responsive, adding to the immersive racing experience. The cel-shaded world of Wheel World is visually stunning, reminiscent of other popular games like Sable and Dungeons of Hinterberg.
Independent developer Messhof’s vision for Wheel World revolves around the joy and freedom of cycling, and the game captures that essence perfectly. Whether racing, customizing bikes, or exploring the world, players can immerse themselves in the spirit of bike riding and adventure. Expect Wheel World to launch on Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC with Xbox Play Anywhere support later this year.
Wheel World
Annapurna Interactive
Welcome to Wheel World, where the fate of the universe rests on your handlebars.
You are Kat, a young cyclist with one mission: save Wheel World from total collapse. Explore a stunning open world filled with impressive vistas, hidden secrets, and races that will test your skills. Customize your bike with an endless array of parts, from sleek speedsters to off-road beasts—there’s no limit to how you can ride.
Wheel World is packed with things to do:
Race and Dominate: Take on elite cycling teams and quirky rivals in high-stakes races where every second counts.
Upgrade Your Ride: Scour the world for rare parts to build the ultimate bike, perfectly tailored to your style.
Carry Out Your Destiny: Recover your stolen Legendary parts to ultimately perform The Great Shift ritual and save the world. No big deal.
All of this is backed by an original soundtrack from Italians Do It Better, pumping energy into every race and moments of breathtaking semi-open world exploration.
It’s time to pedal your way to glory, save the spirits of Wheel World, and keep the universe on track. Hop on, ride fast, and don’t look back.