The indie game studio Messhof has released its latest title, Wheel World, a visually stunning open-world cycling game that invites players to explore a vibrant landscape filled with challenges and collectibles. Co-founder and creative director Mark Essen revealed that this project was born from a desire to create a game he wished existed, much like their previous title, Nidhogg, known for its chaotic multiplayer duels.
In an interview with Game Developer, Essen discussed the design process behind Wheel World. He explained that moving from the 2D gameplay of Nidhogg to the expansive three-dimensional environment of Wheel World presented significant challenges. The studio took a methodical approach, gradually ramping up development over several years, employing around ten staff members at peak times.
Essen emphasized that creating an open world allows players to explore freely, but it is a complex endeavor. He stated, “We wanted this to truly be an open world that players could explore in any direction they wanted. It’s a technically challenging genre to work in.” The team faced difficulties assessing gameplay dynamics until substantial portions of the game world were developed.
A critical aspect of the game’s development was achieving a realistic cycling experience. Essen noted the importance of fine-tuning the average bike speed, which affected distances and overall pacing. To enhance gameplay, they employed techniques such as adjusting the field of view and camera angles to make the biking feel faster. The speed gauge utilizes a multiplier to maintain a sense of realism while ensuring that players experience engaging gameplay.
As players navigate the lush landscapes of Wheel World, they are tasked with racing against bike-riding bosses to collect sacred bike parts. This core narrative provides structure while still allowing for exploration. Essen outlined the game’s progression: “We encouraged players to explore quickly, but story beats naturally guide you to easier races in the Farmlands first—where you can also face the first boss.”
Additional bike parts scattered throughout the environment motivate players to continue searching for upgrades. Different areas in the game, such as Velo City, present unique challenges, gated by ‘bike snobs’ who require players to upgrade their bikes before entering. Essen highlighted the strategic element of bike selection: “The BMX track, for example, might be easier with a high-handling, high-power bike for sharp turns and quick acceleration.”
Messhof aimed to create a rich and diverse world that rewards players for exploration. Essen described the game’s universe as one where life and death revolve around bicycles, drawing visual inspiration from Tour de France posters and early 20th-century travel art. The studio’s art team, albeit small, worked diligently to craft a cohesive and immersive environment, ensuring that it felt authentic rather than a patchwork of assets.
Throughout its development, Wheel World has evolved into a title that not only offers exhilarating races but also invites players to appreciate its beautifully rendered landscapes under gleaming skies. As the game officially launches in March 2024, it promises to deliver a unique cycling experience that melds narrative depth with engaging gameplay, appealing to both casual gamers and cycling enthusiasts alike.