I wouldn’t have guessed that I’d be racing around on a fixed-gear bike, guided by an entity named Skully, at the start of this year. But that’s the kind of unexpected delight you stumble upon at events like the ID@Xbox Showcase at GDC. You never quite know which game is going to pique your interest next. Enter Wheel World, a uniquely thrilling mix of open-world exploration, treasure hunting, and competitively fun racing. It’s definitely got my attention as it gears up to launch on Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC later this year, complete with Xbox Play Anywhere support.
In Wheel World, you become Kat, a cyclist destined to rescue this unusual realm teeming with rival racers, spare bike parts, and quirky portal potties—yes, those double as fast-travel points. The humor in the game is one of its most charming features and doesn’t take itself too seriously. After all, you’re helping Skully, who is tasked with shepherding spirits between the Earth and the Moon. Your main mission? Gather spirits, which means building the best bike imaginable along the way.
Exploring the vast world of Wheel World is a treat in itself, as you hunt down spare parts that can significantly upgrade your ride. Whether it’s swapping out the frame, wheels, or handlebars, each component can affect your bike’s speed and handling. Some parts even come with ‘Legendary’ status, offering unique abilities like expanding your boost meter for those crucial race moments.
A crucial dynamic in Wheel World is Reputation, which unlocks advanced zones as you gain more. How do you earn it? By taking on and defeating other cyclists you encounter along the way. Nothing beats the thrill of challenging a rival gang to a race, which is undeniably exhilarating in this game.
The races themselves, whether against a solo competitor or a swarm of challengers, are both fun and have just the right level of challenge, all set to a catchy soundtrack by Italians Do It Better. Strategy comes into play as you draft behind competitors to reduce wind resistance and time your boosts for maximum effect. Victorious racers are rewarded with coupons, which can be exchanged for even more top-notch bike parts at in-world shops.
The realism in bike handling is superb. Everything from fast bends to steep climbs and easy downhill coasts feels polished and authentic, which is crucial since the gameplay is so dependent on this feature. The cel-shaded visuals are a joy to behold, reminiscent of hits like Sable or Dungeons of Hinterberg.
Messhof, the independent developer behind Wheel World, describes it as a celebration of the joys and freedoms that cycling offers—and they hit the nail on the head. Whether you’re racing, tinkering with bike parts, exploring, or simply enjoying a leisurely ride through the gorgeous landscapes, the game perfectly encapsulates that adventurous spirit. Keep an eye out for Wheel World as it pedals to Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC later this year, supported by Xbox Play Anywhere.
