Wheel World: A Revolutionary Approach to Bike Racing

I didn’t expect to find myself riding a fixed-gear bike under the control of an entity named Skully this year, yet that’s exactly the kind of delightful surprise the ID@Xbox Showcase at GDC is known for. It’s events like these that introduce me to unexpected gaming gems. One that stood out this time is Wheel World, a game that combines open-world exploration, scavenging for loot, and thrilling competitive racing. It’s a fresh take on bike racing, and I’m eagerly awaiting its launch on Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC later this year, complete with Xbox Play Anywhere support.

In Wheel World, you take on the role of Kat, a cyclist on a mission to save a vibrant realm teeming with competitive riders, spare parts to collect, and quirky elements like portal potties—which serve as your fast-travel system. The game’s humor is one of its highlights; it strikes a playful tone that never takes itself too seriously. You’re riding a bike possessed by Skully, who needs your help gathering spirits from the Moon and bringing them back. As you get deeper into this world, assembling the perfect bike becomes your main objective.

Exploring Wheel World is an adventure in itself. Scouring for loot, particularly spare parts, is both engaging and rewarding. These components allow you to customize your bike to your heart’s content—from frame and wheels to handlebars—all while influencing crucial stats like speed and handling. Some parts even come in a ‘Legendary’ status, providing unique advantages, like enhancing your boost meter for those all-important races.

Central to advancing in the game is building your Reputation, essential for unlocking new zones. You earn this by challenging fellow riders on the road or defeating rival bike gangs in races. Racing feels exhilarating, a vital aspect because it doubles as both a thrill and a necessity for progression.

Whether you’re taking on a lone rival or an entire group, the races deliver a satisfying mix of fun and challenge, all underpinned by a catchy soundtrack from Italians Do It Better. Mastering race strategies, such as slipstreaming and using boosts effectively, becomes crucial—and bagging victories rewards you with coupons. These can be used at in-game bike shops for even more customization options.

The game boasts a finely-tuned physics system that enhances the cycling experience, making every turn, uphill struggle, and downhill glide feel natural and intuitive. The visuals are equally breathtaking, echoing the art style of games like Sable or Dungeons of Hinterberg.

Created by the indie developer Messhof, Wheel World encapsulates the sheer joy and excitement of life on two wheels. It seamlessly blends racing, tinkering, and discovering every corner of its vast landscape, capturing the essence of biking and the liberation that comes with it. Expect Wheel World to hit the gaming scene on Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC later this year.

As you wait for its release, get ready to dive into a game that embraces the spirit of exploration and adventure that comes with every ride. Whether you’re racing to the finish line, upgrading your bike, or cruising through picturesque sceneries, Wheel World promises an exhilarating ride that’s hard to resist.