A First Look at Wreckfest 2 in Early Access
Demolition derby racing games come with a unique set of challenges. Unlike traditional racing sims, where precision tuning and high-performance vehicles reign supreme, destruction takes center stage in games like Wreckfest. The original Wreckfest, released in 2018, delivered a thrilling mix of over-the-top crashes, destructible environments, and chaotic racing action. Now, its sequel, Wreckfest 2, has entered Early Access, giving players a taste of what’s to come.
A Sneak Peek at the Mayhem
Currently, the Early Access version of Wreckfest 2 offers a limited but promising experience. Players have access to four unique environments, each with multiple track variations, along with a selection of four unbranded cars. While extensive car customization is not yet available, what’s already in place provides an exciting glimpse into the full game’s potential.
Visually, Wreckfest 2 is a treat. The tracks and environments are impressively detailed, with realistic lighting effects that enhance the atmosphere. While only bright daylight and sunset settings are available at this stage, the game’s engine does an excellent job of creating a rich and immersive experience. Performance-wise, Wreckfest 2 runs smoothly even at high settings, an impressive feat given the sheer number of destructible elements on screen.
The game’s physics and collision model are another highlight. Every impact feels weighty and meaningful, with damage realistically affecting handling depending on the selected realism level. The vehicles themselves aren’t sleek supercars but rather battered and bruised machines built for survival. Their throaty, guttural engine sounds add to the immersive experience, making every race feel like a battle for supremacy.
Diverse Tracks and Destructive Fun
Wreckfest 2 currently features four environments, each offering unique challenges. One standout is the scrapyard, a chaotic battlefield filled with stacks of junked cars and piles of tires. This track epitomizes the game’s spirit, as every turn and straightaway is an opportunity for vehicular carnage. The other environments include a sandy dirt track, a classic asphalt oval, and a freeform physics playground where players can experiment with destruction in creative ways.
The AI drivers in Wreckfest 2 bring an aggressive and unpredictable energy to races. Unlike in traditional racing games where avoiding contact is key, the AI in Wreckfest 2 fully embraces the chaos, making for some wildly entertaining and often unpredictable showdowns. The difficulty settings ensure a fair challenge, whether you prefer a more casual approach or full-blown, ultra-realistic derby warfare.
The Road Ahead
At this stage, Wreckfest 2 includes only demolition derby and racing modes, but the developers have made it clear that there’s more to come. Future updates will bring additional vehicles, new tracks, more customization options, and Steam Workshop support for modding. The development team’s transparency about upcoming content suggests a well-thought-out roadmap toward a feature-rich final release.
Pure Wrecking Fun
While many racing games aim for realism and precision, Wreckfest 2 leans into the sheer joy of destruction. That’s not to say it lacks depth—it just prioritizes adrenaline-fueled mayhem over traditional racing tropes. Even in its current Early Access state, it’s evident that Wreckfest 2 is building on the foundation of its predecessor while aiming for even greater chaos and excitement. With a clear vision for the future, this game is well on its way to becoming a must-play for fans of high-octane automotive anarchy.
