Ghost Bike is Now Wheel World

Messhof, the team behind Nidhogg, has announced a new direction for their much-anticipated game, Ghost Bike. During the Xbox Partner Preview showcase, they revealed that the title has transformed into Wheel World, and is set for release in early 2025 on Xbox Series X|S (as part of Game Pass), PlayStation 5, and PC.

A New Name for a New Adventure

Formerly known as Ghost Bike, Wheel World takes a fresh approach, evolving significantly since its initial announcement. In celebration of this change, Messhof premiered a vibrant trailer featuring the catchy original song “I Want It All” by Joon, from the electronic label Italians Do It Better.

In a Steam news update, Messhof co-founders Mark Essen and Kristy Norindr shared insights into the project’s evolution. “It’s our first 3D game, our first time using Unity, and our first narrative-driven game. As the gameplay and story evolved, it became clear that the original name, Ghost Bike, no longer fit. While it initially revolved around a more somber theme, the tone has shifted to something lighter, and Wheel World felt like a better fit.”

Welcome to Wheel World: A Cyclist’s Adventure to Save the Universe

Wheel World places players in the shoes of Kat, a young cyclist with a critical mission—saving the universe from collapse. In this scenic cycling adventure, players will explore a semi-open world filled with striking landscapes, hidden secrets, and adrenaline-pumping races.

Customization is at the heart of Wheel World, allowing players to upgrade and personalize their bikes with a vast array of parts, from high-speed road bikes to rugged off-road rides. The journey will see Kat recovering stolen Legendary parts and carrying out the Great Shift, a ritual essential to restoring balance to the universe.

The game isn’t just about racing—it’s about the immersive journey, combining skill-based challenges, narrative-driven moments, and the thrill of exploration. With a blend of breathtaking visuals and Messhof’s signature quirky style, Wheel World promises a unique experience for cycling enthusiasts and adventure gamers alike.

Key Features of Wheel World

1. Race to Victory: Compete in high-stakes races against elite cycling teams and quirky rivals. Master your bike’s handling to shave off seconds and cross the finish line first.
2. Bike Customization: Scavenge for rare parts scattered across the world and build the ultimate bike that suits your style, whether you’re looking for speed, durability, or balance.
3. The Great Shift: Recover legendary stolen parts to perform the Great Shift, a pivotal ritual that will determine the fate of Wheel World.
4. Stunning Exploration: Ride through semi-open world environments filled with awe-inspiring views and hidden paths, providing a mix of both exhilarating and serene moments.
5. Dynamic Soundtrack: With music by Italians Do It Better, the soundtrack provides a pulse-pounding backdrop to the game’s fast-paced races and peaceful exploration segments.

A New Chapter for Messhof

This marks Messhof’s first foray into 3D gaming, and the studio’s largest project to date, backed by Annapurna Interactive. Known for their indie hit Nidhogg, Messhof is no stranger to quirky yet refined game design, and Wheel World is shaping up to be another innovative addition to their portfolio.

The game promises to deliver a blend of racing, exploration, and narrative in a beautifully crafted world. While its former iteration, Ghost Bike, focused on darker themes, Wheel World offers a lighter, more adventurous tone, making it a refreshing entry into the cycling genre.