I never imagined I’d be zipping around on a fixed-gear bike possessed by an entity called Skully this year, but that’s the beauty of events like the ID@Xbox Showcase at GDC. You never know what gem of a game will capture your attention. Wheel World, with its blend of open-world adventure, scavenging for loot, and thrilling races, definitely stood out as it gears up for release later this year on Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC, complete with Xbox Play Anywhere support.
In Wheel World, you step into the shoes of Kat, a daring cyclist who’s tasked with saving this quirky universe filled with rival bikers, spare parts, and, amusingly, portal potties acting as fast-travel points. The humor woven throughout the game was a real highlight for me. It’s refreshingly lighthearted, fitting for a game featuring a spirit-guiding bike. Your main mission is to help Skully round up spirits while ensuring your bike is top-notch.
Exploring Wheel World and hunting for loot, primarily in the form of spare parts, is a major thrill. These parts allow for deep customization of your bike—tweaking the frame, wheels, and handlebars to boost performance stats like speed and handling. Some items even come with a ‘Legendary’ status, offering unique abilities such as an extended boost meter for those crucial racing moments.
Another fascinating aspect is the Reputation system, which you need to unlock higher-level zones. You’ll earn it by challenging other bikers or by taking on rival bike gangs—naturally, through racing. The sheer joy of riding through the vibrant world of Wheel World makes every encounter fun.
The races are a blast, each one balanced with enjoyable challenges and set to an invigorating soundtrack courtesy of Italians Do It Better. Mastering the art of drafting and knowing when to hit that boost are crucial strategies for crossing the finish line first. Winning also earns you coupons to use at bike shops across the map, further expanding your customization options.
The game’s physics make every maneuver feel intuitive, whether you’re tackling a steep climb, navigating tight corners, or cruising downhill. The cel-shaded visual style enhances the experience, reminiscent of titles like Sable or Dungeons of Hinterberg.
Messhof, the indie developer behind Wheel World, captures the joy and freedom of cycling with a unique twist. Whether you’re racing, customizing your ride, exploring, or just enjoying a relaxed ride through the hills, it embodies the spirit of adventure and freedom. Keep an eye out for its release on Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC with Xbox Play Anywhere, making it an exciting addition to the gaming world later this year.
