Wreckfest 2

Developer: Bugbear
Release: Mar 20th 2025
Platforms:
Racing
Early Access
Realistic Physics
Immersive Damage
Addictive Gameplay
Limited Content
Performance Issues
Wreckfest 2 Poster

" Realistic racing with strategic damage and immersive destruction but sparse content and optimization issues "

Wreckfest 2 Review

Wreckfest 2 is an ambitious sequel currently in early access, building upon the strong foundation of the original game with significant improvements in driving physics, damage modeling, and graphics. Players appreciate the realistic car handling and immersive damage system, which adds strategic depth to races. The developers are praised for their commitment to steady updates and community engagement, promising a robust final product. However, the game is still light on content, with limited tracks, cars, and modes available, reflecting its early access status.

Performance varies across systems, with some users reporting crashes and optimization issues, especially on lower-end hardware and Steam Deck. Multiplayer is functional but can suffer from long wait times and occasional instability. Wheel support is limited and a common request among the community. Despite these shortcomings, fans of the original and demolition derby genre find the game highly enjoyable and are optimistic about its future growth and feature additions.

Highlights

Gameplay mechanics are widely praised for their balance between realism and fun, with detailed car physics, soft-body damage, and strategic racing elements. Graphics and sound design receive strong commendations for their quality and immersion, including detailed environments and dynamic audio effects. The game’s core driving experience is described as addictive and satisfying, capturing the spirit of demolition derby with a modern touch.

Community support and developer responsiveness during early access are also highlighted, reinforcing trust in the game’s ongoing development and eventual completeness.

Criticisms

The most frequent criticism concerns the limited content at this early stage, including few cars, tracks, and missing modes like career and customization. Performance issues, such as crashes and high VRAM usage, are reported by some players. Multiplayer suffers from long wait times between races and occasional instability, reducing the online experience quality. Wheel support is inadequate, disappointing players who prefer this control method. Additionally, the UI and lack of in-game music detract from the overall polish. Some players feel the game is not yet worth full price due to these limitations.

Pros

  • Realistic and engaging driving physics with strategic damage management.
  • Highly detailed soft-body car damage enhances immersion and gameplay.
  • Graphics and sound design are significantly improved from the original.
  • Developers actively update and respond to community feedback.
  • Multiplayer offers fun chaotic races despite some wait times.
  • Cars feel heavy and distinct, adding depth to racing experience.
  • Early access pricing considered fair by many fans of the series.

Cons

  • Content is currently sparse with limited cars, tracks, and modes.
  • Performance issues including crashes and high VRAM usage reported.
  • Multiplayer matchmaking has long wait times and occasional instability.
  • Wheel support is poor and lacks force feedback and handbrake options.
  • No in-game music and unintuitive UI reduce overall polish.
  • Game is very early access; not fully fleshed out yet.
  • Some players find replayability low due to limited variety now.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Ready for mayhem? Wreckfest is back, offering the best in full-contact racing with unrivaled destruction! Witness head-to-head battles as you tear apart rival vehicles bit by bit. Powered by the enhanced physics engine, developed by the creators of Wreckfest & FlatOut!

Release Date Mar 20th 2025
Publisher THQ Nordic
Developer Bugbear
Platforms

User Reviews

Mostly Positive (1,827)
74% Positive 26% Negative