Wreckfest

Developer: Bugbear
Release: Jun 14th 2018
Platforms:
Action
Indie
Racing
Simulation
Sports
Addictive
Creative
Chaotic
Repetitive
Aggressive A I
Wreckfest Poster

" Dynamic action racing with realistic crash physics and vehicle upgrades but repetitive race formats "

Wreckfest Review

Wreckfest is a demolition derby-themed racing game that blends high-octane speed with intense vehicular combat and realistic physics. Players enjoy a wide variety of vehicles, from muscle cars to lawnmowers, and tracks that range from traditional circuits to chaotic arenas. The game’s standout feature is its detailed damage model and physics engine, which make crashes feel both dramatic and strategic. Multiplayer remains active and competitive, with players praising the thrilling chaos and aggressive AI. However, some players find the career mode repetitive and the AI behavior frustratingly aggressive or unpredictable. The game’s graphics and sound design contribute to an immersive experience, though some technical issues like graphics card recognition and lack of ultrawide support were noted. Overall, Wreckfest offers a unique, visceral racing experience focused on destruction and mayhem, appealing especially to those who enjoy unconventional racing games and multiplayer chaos.

Highlights

Players praise Wreckfest’s realistic and dynamic damage model, which makes crashes feel impactful and strategic. The physics system is lauded for delivering believable vehicle handling and destruction effects. The diverse vehicle roster and creative track designs, including demolition arenas and rollercoaster-like courses, add variety and excitement. Multiplayer is highlighted as a major strength, offering active lobbies and chaotic, competitive races. The graphics and sound design receive positive remarks for enhancing immersion with detailed car models, realistic damage visuals, and roaring engines. Fans appreciate the game’s unique blend of racing and demolition derby elements, making it a standout in the genre.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include repetitive race formats and a shallow career mode that lacks variety and progression depth. Some players find the AI overly aggressive, often prioritizing wrecking over racing, which can lead to frustrating and unpredictable gameplay. Control issues and slippery handling mechanics were mentioned, making driving feel inconsistent or unwieldy. Technical problems such as bugs, achievement glitches, and lack of ultrawide monitor support were noted. Additionally, the multiplayer community is sometimes described as toxic or dominated by highly skilled players, which can deter newcomers. The pricing was also viewed as too high given the game’s content and replayability.

Pros

  • Realistic and dynamic damage model enhances crash impact and strategy.
  • Diverse vehicle selection from muscle cars to unconventional vehicles.
  • Engaging physics system with believable vehicle handling and destruction.
  • Creative and varied track designs including demolition arenas.
  • Active and competitive multiplayer with chaotic race environments.
  • Immersive graphics with detailed car models and damage effects.
  • Strong sound design featuring roaring engines and crash sounds.

Cons

  • Repetitive race formats and shallow career progression.
  • AI behavior can be frustratingly aggressive and unpredictable.
  • Controls sometimes feel slippery or inconsistent.
  • Technical issues including bugs and achievement glitches.
  • Lack of ultrawide monitor support limits display options.
  • Multiplayer community can be toxic or overly competitive.
  • Pricing considered high relative to content and replay value.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Wreckfest is a demolition derby themed racing game with soft-body damage modeling, sophisticated driving dynamics and in-depth vehicle upgrading, featuring both demolition derbies and more traditional track races. It’s all about fun, breakneck racing and over-the-top crashes.

Release Date Jun 14th 2018
Publisher THQ Nordic
Developer Bugbear
Platforms

User Reviews

Very Positive (17,864)
88% Positive 12% Negative

Online Reviews

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Metacritic
81