Wheel World: A Bold New Spin on Bike Racing

So, picture this: a fixed-gear bike that’s not just a set of wheels but is actually possessed by a ghostly entity named Skully. It’s not something I initially thought I’d be diving into this year, but that’s the beauty of events like the ID@Xbox Showcase at GDC. You end up discovering gaming gems such as Wheel World that you never saw coming. This game merges open-world exploration, scavenging for loot, and the thrill of competitive racing, all of which have now landed it firmly on my list, as it gears up for release on Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC with Xbox Play Anywhere support later this year.

In Wheel World, you embody Kat, a cyclist destined to save a realm teeming with rival bikers, spare parts, and whimsical portal potties that serve as fast-travel stations. This sense of humor was one of the delightful surprises in my experience with the game. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, which is refreshing especially when you’re riding a bike orchestrated by a moon-bound spirit courier. Assisting Skully in gathering spirits is your quest, but to accomplish it, upgrading your bike to perfection is key.

A big part of Wheel World is exploring its vibrant environment and hunting for loot, which mainly consists of spare parts you can use to customize your bike. From frames and wheels to handlebars, everything is customizable, influencing attributes like speed and handling. Some parts are even ‘Legendary’ and offer unique bonuses, like boosting your energy meter during races.

Another intriguing aspect is the Reputation system, which you need to improve for unlocking higher-level zones. You can boost your reputation by challenging other riders or taking down rival bike gangs through — you guessed it — racing. And I must say, racing in Wheel World is quite the exhilarating experience.

Every race I participated in was a mix of fun and mild challenge, all set to a dynamic soundtrack by Italians Do It Better. As I maneuvered through the crowd, I discovered that utilizing drafting (keeping closely behind another rider to cut air resistance) and timing your boosts just right were crucial strategies. Winning these races can earn you coupons redeemable at in-game bike shops for additional bike parts.

The bike physics felt impressively authentic, accounting for elements like speed through curves or the effort required going uphill while allowing for a smooth glide downhill. This attention to detail enhances the gameplay, considering how heavily the game leans on such mechanics. Plus, the cell-shaded landscapes are a visual treat reminiscent of games like Sable or Dungeons of Hinterberg.

Developer Messhof has tapped into the vibrant joy of bike culture, capturing the thrill of racing, tweaking your ride, wandering, or simply cruising amidst nature. Wheel World does a fantastic job embracing the freedom that comes with cycling exploration. Watch for its release on Xbox Series X|S and Windows PCs, with Xbox Play Anywhere support, later this year.