Annapurna Interactive, following a period of internal changes, has re-emerged with the announcement of Wheel World, an open-world cycling game developed by Messhof, the creators of Nidhogg. This reveal took place during the October 2024 Xbox Partner Preview and marks a significant milestone for the publisher after a notable staff exodus earlier this year.
Annapurna Interactive, known for publishing acclaimed indie titles like What Remains of Edith Finch and Stray, experienced a period of upheaval in September 2024 due to internal disagreements regarding company direction. The departure of 25 staff members raised questions about the future of the publisher. While Annapurna affirmed its commitment to existing projects, the announcement of Wheel World signals a renewed focus on game publishing.
[Wheel World – Official Gameplay Trailer | Xbox Partner Preview October 2024]
This isn’t Wheel World’s first appearance; it was initially showcased in 2023 under the title Ghost Bike. Originally conceived as a game about cycling in the afterlife following a fatal car accident, Messhof explained that the game’s development evolved, shifting towards a more lighthearted and gameplay-focused experience. The change in tone led to the rebranding as Wheel World, now centered around a cyclist named Kat striving to save the titular world from imminent collapse through various races.
With a slightly adjusted release window and a fresh identity, Wheel World is slated to launch in early 2025 on PC, Xbox Series X/S (via Game Pass), and PlayStation 5. The game promises an open-world cycling adventure, offering players the opportunity to explore a vibrant and dynamic world on two wheels. Players will take on the role of Kat, competing in races across a diverse landscape, all while working to prevent the impending doom of Wheel World. The shift from the darker themes of Ghost Bike suggests a more accessible and family-friendly experience, expanding the potential audience for Messhof’s latest creation. This exciting new title from the creators of Nidhogg is sure to bring a unique blend of competition and exploration to the world of indie gaming.
