Wheel World: A Groundbreaking Perspective on Bike Racing

I must admit, riding a fixed-gear bike that’s taken over by a mysterious entity named Skully wasn’t exactly on my gaming agenda this year. Yet, that’s the beauty of events like the ID@Xbox Showcase at the Game Developers Conference—discovering unexpected gems. One such surprise is Wheel World, an intriguing mix of open-world exploration, loot hunting, and exhilarating bike races. It’s become quite the stand-out as it gears up for release on Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC later this year, with Xbox Play Anywhere functionality in tow.

In this captivating world, you step into the shoes of a biker named Kat. Your mission? To safeguard this extraordinary realm brimming with rival cyclists, spare parts, and even portal potties serving as handy fast-travel points. What really captured my attention during my time playing was the game’s quirky humor. How can you take things too seriously when your partner in crime is a spirit-guiding bike? The main quest revolves around helping Skully gather spirits, but to achieve that, you must craft the ultimate ride.

As I navigated the dynamic world of Wheel World, collecting loot and customizing my bike with each new part was exceptionally rewarding. You can swap out nearly everything—from the frame to the wheels—even the handlebars—each affecting your bike’s speed and handling. And if you’re lucky enough to stumble upon ‘Legendary’ status parts, you can boost your performance even further with special abilities.

Gaining Reputation is crucial here as it unlocks access to more advanced zones. You earn that by challenging other bikers on the road or racing against entire gangs on their turf. And racing in Wheel World is a joy. The competitions, whether they involve a solo opponent or an entire gang, strike a delightful balance between fun and challenge. The vibrant soundtrack from Italians Do It Better adds an extra pulse-pounding element to each race. Drafting behind opponents to cut wind resistance and timing your boosts just right are essential strategies for crossing the finish line first. Plus, winning races awards coupons for purchasing even more bike parts from shops dotted throughout the landscape.

The way your bike handles here feels incredibly intuitive and natural. Your riding can be affected by variables like speed through curves, pedaling intensity uphill, or effortlessly coasting downhill—all crafted with precision. The game’s cel-shaded visuals are a spectacle too, evoking the charm of games like Sable or Dungeons of Hinterberg.

Messhof, the indie developer behind this gem, captures the essence of biking joy and freedom so well that whether you’re racing through tracks, tinkering with gear, or just exploring, it feels like a love letter to cycling. Wheel World promises a vibrant adventure when it hits Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC later this year, complete with Xbox Play Anywhere support. It’s set to offer an unforgettable ride, so keep your eyes peeled for its launch!