First Look: Wheel World Offers a Rad Open-World Cycling Adventure

Who would have guessed that the developers behind the intensely competitive fencing game, Nidhogg, would follow up with an open-world cycling adventure? It's an unexpected but welcome twist, showcasing the versatility of talented game developers who can excel across different genres. Recently, I had the chance to experience this unique game firsthand.

During GDC in San Francisco, I took Wheel World for a spin alongside Messhof's Mark Essen and Kristy Norindr. Cruising through stunning landscapes, accompanied by an original synth-pop soundtrack from Italians Do It Better, proved to be incredibly enjoyable. The races the precision and care that went into crafting this two-wheeled fantasy.

Embrace the Cycling Spirits Don't be fooled by the initially laid-back atmosphere; there's more to Wheel World than meets the eye. You play as Kat, chosen by ancient cycling spirits – represented by a flaming green skull – to recover stolen legendary bike parts. Your mission: perform the Gear Shift ritual and prevent global destruction. It's a heavy burden, but thankfully, you can explore the world at your own pace.

I spent about 20 minutes with Wheel World, dividing my time between races and exploration. The map is divided into regions that unlock in a similar way to Assassin's Creed. After leaving the starting area, you're free to roam. You'll discover diverse biomes, including dense forests, snowy hills, and charming towns, all filled with secrets, side quests, and, of course, those crucial bike parts.

A Believable Ride While I'm not a dedicated cyclist, I appreciate good bike handling in a game. Wheel World isn't a bike simulator, so you don't need to manage gears or stamina. However, it authentically captures the weight and physics of riding a bike. The way you shift your weight for precise turns, how different terrains affect traction, and the thrill of big jumps all contribute to a believable and satisfying experience.

Ride Like the Wind Drafting plays a significant role in Wheel World races, mirroring real-world cycling. Riding behind another racer boosts your speed, allowing you to close the gap and overtake them. Of course, your opponents will try the same strategy. This introduces a strategic element to races. You'll want to maintain perfect lines and ideally take an early lead. But, in close races, you'll need to carefully time your moves.

Jumping ahead prematurely can allow opponents to capitalize on more favorable track sections or steal the lead right before the finish line. The courses themselves significantly influence your racing approach, transforming familiar exploration areas into structured raceways. This fresh perspective helped me see the world through a cyclist's eyes.

I began noticing subtle details: natural ramps that serve as collectibles, hidden paths leading to bike upgrades, and interesting characters offering optional side quests. It's difficult to pull yourself away from such an engaging world after only a brief glimpse, but my time with Wheel World certainly sparked my interest.

I'm eager to see if the game maintains its appeal with enough varied environments and races and if its approach to open-world quests keeps me hooked. I'm optimistic and look forward to diving back into Wheel World when it launches later this year.