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Wheel World

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Wheel World
Item: Wheel World
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresAdventure, Third Person Perspective, Sports, Single Player, Racing

AvailableJul 23, 2025

PlatformXbox Series X, PlayStation 5, PC

DeveloperMesshof

Overview

Dive into Wheel World as Kat, a rider chosen by ancient cycling spirits. Race elite teams, trick out your bike, and perform the long overdue Great Shift ritual to save a universe on the brink! Your bike is your destiny.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Wheel World charms with its unique cycling culture and whimsical narrative, but critics slam its thin execution and lack of character depth. While some appreciate the light-hearted adventure and bike puns, many feel the story is merely a backdrop for gameplay, with unresolved threads and minimal engagement. Overall, it’s a delightful premise that ultimately falls short for those craving a richer narrative experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

22%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

13%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions regarding the story of Wheel World highlight several positive aspects that critics appreciate. Many reviewers, such as But Why Tho? and GameBlast, commend the unique narrative centered around cycling culture and the protagonist Kat's journey alongside her companion, Skully. The incorporation of themes like personal growth, exploration, and the whimsical elements of a cycling paradise resonate well with players who enjoy light-hearted adventures. Critics like Loot Level Chill also note the charm of the narrative, particularly the engaging bike puns that add to the overall experience. The story's focus on a fantastical quest involving legendary bike parts and a quest to help souls transition to the afterlife, as mentioned by GamesRadar+ and Eurogamer, provides a loose framework that encourages exploration within the game world. However, numerous critics express dissatisfaction with the story's execution, highlighting significant flaws. For instance, Final Weapon criticizes the narrative for being thin and unengaging, with unresolved plot threads and a lack of character development. Game Informer echoes this sentiment, describing the narrative as lacking justification for character roles and ultimately unengaging. Many reviewers, including Shacknews and Vandal, point out that the story serves primarily as a backdrop for gameplay rather than a compelling narrative, suggesting that the depth and complexity of the story do not enhance the overall gaming experience. Critics like Multiplayer.it note a shift from a potentially darker narrative to a more light-hearted approach, yet they still find the overall narrative minimal. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Wheel World offers a whimsical and charming premise, it struggles to deliver a robust and engaging story. The narrative's focus on cycling culture and exploration is appreciated, but many critics, including GameGrin and COGconnected, agree that it lacks depth and character development, leading to a perception of the story as a mere backdrop to gameplay. As a result, while the game may appeal to those seeking a light-hearted adventure, it may leave players desiring a more substantial narrative experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Wheel World offers engaging gameplay with customizable bikes and immersive racing mechanics praised by some critics, but suffers from unresponsive controls and a lack of challenge that hampers the overall experience. While it has potential for fun exploration and racing, many reviewers find it inconsistent and lacking depth, indicating a need for refinement to fully satisfy players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

57%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

13%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Wheel World has garnered a mix of positive feedback from various critics, highlighting its engaging and immersive aspects. Reviewers such as But Why Tho? and GameSpew emphasized the game's focus on racing and exploration, noting the ability to customize bikes and adapt to different terrains. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and PlayStation LifeStyle praised the immersive controls and strategic elements, such as speed boosts and drafting, which enhance the racing experience. Eurogamer and Push Square also appreciated the combination of open-world exploration with racing mechanics, allowing players to collect bike parts and engage in various challenges, contributing to a sense of freedom and progression. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the gameplay that detract from the overall experience. Final Weapon and Game Informer pointed out issues with unresponsive controls and a lack of challenge, describing the racing mechanics as frustrating and dull. Critics like Vandal and Multiplayer.it echoed these sentiments, highlighting the simplicity of the control system and the limited challenge in races, which diminishes the incentive for players to upgrade their bikes. Additionally, Shacknews mentioned that the latter half of the game suffers from less enjoyable routes and frustrating CPU interactions, indicating that the gameplay may not maintain its initial excitement throughout. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Wheel World offers a solid foundation for racing and exploration, it is marred by inconsistencies in gameplay mechanics and a lack of depth. Many reviewers appreciated the customization options and the engaging nature of the racing experience, as seen in the opinions of GameBlast and Loot Level Chill. However, the recurring complaints about control responsiveness and a diminishing challenge, highlighted by critics like Metro GameCentral and XboxEra, indicate that the game may not fully meet the expectations of players seeking a more refined and challenging cycling experience. The mixed sentiments suggest that while Wheel World has potential, it may require further refinement to elevate its gameplay to a more satisfying level.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Wheel World dazzles with its vibrant cel-shaded art and charming environments, earning high praise from critics for its unique aesthetic that enhances gameplay. While some point out issues like gameplay monotony and low polygon counts, the overall sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive, marking it as a visually stunning celebration of cycling culture.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

77%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

23%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Wheel World is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its unique aesthetic and vibrant environments. Reviewers like But Why Tho? and Checkpoint Gaming highlight the game's stylized, cel-shaded art style, which not only captures the essence of cycling culture but also creates a dynamic and immersive world. Critics such as COGconnected and Shacknews commend the clean lines and colorful cartoonish visuals, emphasizing how these elements enhance the gameplay experience. The bucolic charm of the environments, particularly noted by Eurogamer and Gameliner, further contributes to the game's appeal, making exploration enjoyable and visually rewarding. Despite the many praises, some critics have pointed out certain shortcomings in the graphics and visual design. For instance, Game Informer noted that while the distinct areas are visually appealing, they do not significantly alter gameplay, leading to a sense of monotony. Additionally, Vandal mentioned that the graphics exhibit a low polygon count, which may detract from the overall visual fidelity. Final Weapon also expressed that while the cel-shaded graphics were charming, they felt that this aesthetic alone could not compensate for other issues within the game. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Wheel World excels in its graphics and visual design, with a majority celebrating its vibrant, colorful, and charming art style. Critics like XboxEra and Metro GameCentral have highlighted the game's ability to create breathtaking vistas and surreal landscapes, contributing positively to the overall experience. While some critiques regarding gameplay monotony and graphical fidelity exist, they do not overshadow the general appreciation for the game's artistic direction. Overall, Wheel World is seen as a visually stunning title that successfully captures the essence of its cycling theme while offering an engaging aesthetic experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics rave about Wheel World's sound design and music, praising its immersive, energetic soundtrack that enhances the racing experience. While the collaboration with band JOON and the balance of calming and upbeat tracks are highlights, some reviewers note that the music doesn't fully compensate for the game's other shortcomings. Overall, the soundtrack is celebrated for elevating gameplay, though a few minor critiques exist regarding its potential impact on adrenaline levels.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

93%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The overall sentiment regarding the sound design and music of Wheel World is overwhelmingly positive among critics. Many reviewers praised the soundtrack for its ability to enhance the racing experience, with Checkpoint Gaming highlighting the energetic electronic beats created in collaboration with the band JOON, which significantly boosts immersion. Similarly, COGconnected noted the unobtrusive electronic/synth beats that dynamically increase in intensity during races, contributing to the game's exhilarating atmosphere. Critics like GameGrin and Loot Level Chill emphasized the balance between calming and energetic tracks, with the former describing the soundtrack as both calming yet energetic, which enhances gameplay during races. This sentiment is echoed by Vandal, who found the soundtrack engaging and motivational, further solidifying the positive reception of the music. While the majority of critics lauded the soundtrack, some noted that it does not entirely compensate for the game's shortcomings. Game Informer pointed out that although the soundtrack is a standout feature, it does not make up for other aspects of the game that may be lacking. Additionally, while the soothing and relaxing qualities of the music were appreciated by some, like GameBlast, there is a suggestion that such tranquility could potentially detract from the adrenaline-pumping racing experience for certain players. This nuanced perspective indicates that while the music is generally well-received, there are minor criticisms regarding its impact on the overall gameplay experience. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Wheel World are commendable and significantly enhance the gaming experience. The majority of reviewers, including Gameliner and Shacknews, found the soundtrack to be a positive element that complements both exploration and racing, striking a balance between focus and euphoria. With a strong emphasis on the engaging nature of the music, critics agree that it plays a crucial role in immersing players within the game world, making it a noteworthy aspect of Wheel World. Overall, the soundtrack is celebrated for its ability to elevate the gameplay, despite some minor critiques regarding its effectiveness in addressing other game elements.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Wheel World faces a mixed bag of technical performance reviews. On PC, some players enjoy smooth gameplay, with positive notes on optimization and frame rates. However, numerous bugs and glitches—like erratic AI and performance drops—persist. The PS5 version suffers more severely, marred by low frame rates and screen tearing, leading to frustrating gameplay. Critics agree: while the game has potential, it desperately needs improvements in physics and controls to provide a satisfying experience across platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

31%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Wheel World has garnered a mixed response from critics across different gaming platforms. On PC, several reviews highlight positive aspects, such as a generally well-optimized experience noted by Checkpoint Gaming, and consistent frame rates reported by GameGrin. GamesRadar+ also mentions that the game runs smoothly without significant technical issues, while Gamers Heroes reports a bug-free playthrough, indicating that for some players, the experience can be quite enjoyable. Additionally, Eurogamer acknowledges that despite minor annoyances, the overall performance is satisfactory. However, the negatives surrounding the technical performance of Wheel World cannot be overlooked. Several critics have pointed out various bugs and glitches that hinder gameplay. Final Weapon highlights issues with AI behavior during races, while GameBlast notes performance drops in visually dense areas. Game Informer discusses significant technical problems, including collision physics and erratic lighting, which detract from the experience. On the PS5, both Metro GameCentral and Push Square report low frame rates and screen tearing, particularly in crowded environments, which can lead to frustrating gameplay moments. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Wheel World has the foundation for a solid gaming experience, technical performance issues plague both the PC and PS5 versions. The PC platform shows a mix of experiences, with some players enjoying smooth gameplay while others encounter notable bugs and glitches. The PS5 version appears to struggle more with performance, as indicated by multiple reviews citing frame rate issues and collision detection problems. Critics like Shacknews and Vandal emphasize the need for improvements in physics and control systems, suggesting that while the game has potential, it requires further refinement to deliver a consistently enjoyable experience across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Wheel World has potential replay value due to varied races, challenges, and customization, praised by some critics for allowing player engagement at their own pace. However, many express concerns over its repetitive gameplay, uninspired race goals, limited modes, and lack of multiplayer options, which could lead to a monotonous experience. While some enjoy the competitive elements and revisiting tracks, significant criticisms may deter players from returning after the initial playthrough.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

24%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

52%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

24%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of Wheel World highlight several positive aspects that contribute to its appeal. Critics such as But Why Tho? and Eurogamer emphasize the game’s variety in races, side goals, and opportunities for exploration, which allow players to engage at their own pace. This sentiment is echoed by GameGrin, who notes the decent amount of replay value stemming from challenges, collectibles, and customization options, encouraging players to hone their skills. Additionally, GameSpew and PlayStation LifeStyle mention the allure of earning rep points and competing on leaderboards, suggesting that competitive elements can enhance the replay experience for those looking for a challenge. However, a significant number of critics express concerns that detract from the game's overall replay value. Final Weapon and Game Informer point out the repetitive nature of race goals and uninspired gameplay, which could lead to a monotonous experience and discourage players from returning after completing the game. Critics like Gameliner and XboxEra also highlight the limited variety in racing modes and the lack of multiplayer options, which could further restrict long-term engagement. Metro GameCentral adds that the loot cycle feels futile, as new bike parts may not offer meaningful improvements, diminishing the incentive to replay. Overall, the consensus among critics appears mixed. While many reviewers acknowledge the potential for replayability through various challenges and customization options, a notable number express concerns about the game's repetitive structure and lack of engaging content. Critics like Vandal and PlayStation LifeStyle highlight the enjoyable aspects of revisiting tracks and competing for high scores, but others like Shacknews and Multiplayer.it caution that the absence of substantial rewards and challenges may limit the game's appeal in the long run. Thus, while Wheel World offers some replay value, it is tempered by significant criticisms that could affect players' willingness to return after their initial playthrough.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

53%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding "Wheel World" is largely positive, with many critics praising its engaging gameplay, charming visuals, and immersive sound design. Reviewers like Checkpoint Gaming and GameGrin highlight the game's vibrant aesthetics and enjoyable soundtrack, suggesting that these elements contribute significantly to the overall experience. Eurogamer appreciates the unique approach to gameplay and storytelling, emphasizing the sensation of pedal power and the blend of exploration and competition. Critics such as Loot Level Chill and Gamers Heroes also commend the game for its ability to inspire real-life biking engagement, showcasing its appeal beyond mere entertainment. The game is often described as a delightful and relaxing experience, with several reviewers recommending it as a standout title in the indie gaming scene. However, despite the numerous positives, several critics have pointed out significant shortcomings in "Wheel World." Final Weapon criticizes the game for feeling more like a tech demo than a fully realized product, indicating a lack of depth in gameplay and narrative. Game Informer echoes this sentiment, noting the boring races and poor storytelling that detract from the overall experience. Many reviewers, including Shacknews and Multiplayer.it, express disappointment with the game's lack of competitive depth and narrative engagement, suggesting that while the game is pleasant, it ultimately feels shallow and could benefit from more substantial content. Technical issues, particularly regarding controls and performance, are also a recurring theme in the critiques, with multiple reviewers indicating that these flaws hinder the overall enjoyment. In conclusion, while "Wheel World" has garnered a mostly favorable reception for its charming aesthetics and engaging gameplay, critics are divided on its depth and overall execution. The consensus suggests that the game excels in creating a relaxing and visually appealing cycling experience, as noted by critics like XboxEra and Vandal, but it falls short in delivering a compelling narrative and competitive challenge. As a result, "Wheel World" is recommended for those seeking a casual adventure, yet it may leave more demanding players wanting in terms of gameplay variety and depth.

TL;DR

"Wheel World" is praised for its charming visuals, engaging gameplay, and immersive sound design, making it a delightful indie title. Critics highlight its vibrant aesthetics and relaxing cycling experience, but many also criticize it for lacking depth in gameplay and narrative, with some calling it more of a tech demo. While it excels as a casual adventure, players seeking competitive challenges may find it disappointing due to technical issues and shallow content.

MONSTER

Reviews

52 reviews found

Loot Level Chill

Jul 23, 2025