Can a Video Game Capture the Soul of Cycling? My Review of Wheel World

Here on Gear & Grit, I live and breathe cycling. I talk about gear, debate the merits of carbon vs. steel and celebrate the grit and glory of the pro peloton. It’s not often I turn my attention to the digital world, but every now and then, something comes along that captures the spirit of our sport so perfectly that I have to share it. Today, I'm talking about Wheel World, a video game that swaps hyper-realism for a whole lot of heart, delivering an experience that feels like a love letter to cycling culture.

So, what is it? Wheel World is an open-world cycling adventure. Forget Zwift or Wahoo RGT; this isn't a training tool. It’s a whimsical escape. You play as a silent protagonist tasked by a friendly ghost named Skully to track down thieves who have stolen his magical, high-spec components—a predicament any cyclist who has ever coveted a new groupset can appreciate on some level. This simple quest is an excuse to do what we love most: explore a beautiful world on two wheels. You’ll pedal through rolling vineyards, navigate bumpy forest tracks, and weave through city traffic, all rendered in a charming, cartoonish art style.

For those of us who spend hours in the saddle, the real question is: how does it feel? Remarkably, the developers at Messhof have nailed the sensation of momentum. The bike has a tangible weight, and cornering at speed requires a delicate touch, much like navigating a fast descent in real life. The game's core mechanic revolves around a concept every road cyclist knows intimately: drafting. Tucking in behind another rider’s wheel provides a slipstream effect that not only boosts your speed but also charges a special sprint meter. It’s a brilliant translation of a fundamental cycling tactic into a fun gameplay loop. You’ll find yourself strategically using your rivals’ draft to conserve energy before launching a final, decisive attack on the finish line.

The gear obsession that defines our sport is also present, albeit in a simplified form. You can customize your virtual ride with different frames, wheels, handlebars, and more. Each component affects your bike's stats, like "Power" for climbing efficiency or "Aero" for speed on the flats and descents. While you can geek out and create specific builds for twisty vs. hilly courses, a solid all-rounder setup will comfortably get you through the game. It’s a fun, accessible take on bike building that avoids getting bogged down in the minute details of bottom bracket standards or derailleur compatibility.

What makes Wheel World truly special for a cycling enthusiast is its celebration of the culture. The world is filled with rival "gangs" of cyclists, from wine connoisseurs on a tasting tour to corporate sales teams on a team-building ride. The dialogue is peppered with cycling slang, and the whole experience is infused with a sense of camaraderie and lighthearted fun. It’s all set to an incredible soundtrack of upbeat, mellow synth from the Italians Do It Better record label—perfect for your next indoor trainer session.

Wheel World isn’t a punishing simulation. It’s a short, five-hour experience designed to be a breezy, enjoyable ride. It’s the perfect diversion for a rainy day or when you’re craving a spin but can’t get out on the road. It successfully captures the simple joy of discovery and the satisfying flow state of a great ride. If you’ve ever crested a hill and felt a surge of happiness as you soared down the other side, you’ll find a piece of that feeling here. It’s a charming, funny, and stylish tribute to the sport we love.