The first Hot Wheels Unleashed game took us by surprise. Sure, it looks good, in fact great, but then we got our hands on it and were surprised by the ludicrous track designs and engaging career.
Now, with the follow-up, the precedent has been set and developer Milestone now must try to beat what we think was one of its best-ever efforts.
No gameplay has been released yet, but the initial trailer showcases what looks to be an increased scope both in terms of level design backdrops – this particular race begins inside a home office set-up, then moves outside onto grass and through sand – and vehicle types, with a quad bike and a monster truck involved.
Five environments will be included for the circuits to be created within:
- Backyard
- Arcade
- Mini Golf Course
- Gas Station
- Track Room
Two new driving mechanics
Being able to drift around corners and boost down the straights remain, but they are joined by the ability to jump – reminding us, on the surface, of LEGO 2K Drive – and ‘lateral dash’.
Jumping is said to be used to find secret shortcuts. In the first game, using the boost at the right time at certain points could see you cut the course, but now it seems to be built in as a more prominent mechanic. The sideways dash, meanwhile, could be used to avoid the ‘module’ traps or smash into rivals.
Two-wheeled debut
Alongside the aforementioned ATVS, motorcycles debut too, so you’ll be able to ride alongside your four-wheeled opponents. The last time we enjoyed a racing game that successfully married bikes, cars and monster trucks was Sony’s Motorstorm – so we’re hoping for a hint of those vibes, please.
The total roster is now ‘over 130’ this time around, and the ability to upgrade vehicles remains.
Story-driven campaign
In the original game, you would unlock new events across a rather adorable toy car map, however, this time a story – featuring four original characters – has been layered on top via animated cutscenes.
New game modes are said to be included, but there are no details on what these entail at this time. Cross-platform multiplayer returns (added post-launch to the original) as does local split-screen, a revised track editor, plus the livery and sticker editor. All user-generated content is cross-platform too, minus for those on Switch.
2021’s game was the most successful Milestone-created game ever, shipping over two million units.
Editions and DLC
The first game was loaded with optional post-release DLC and two season passes. The same is true of the second.
Alongside two volumes of season pass content, there are set to be additional packs for pre-orders, although the exact contents are not yet clear.
Alongside the Standard Edition, a Deluxe Edition includes two bonus packs and the Volume 1 Season pass. A Legendary Edition includes two further packs plus both Volume 1 and 2 f the season pass.
Meanwhile, the Day One physical version includes four bonus digital vehicles and a Pure Fire physical release also includes a diecast Hot Wheels model.
Platforms
Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 Turbocharged will release for PC (Steam and Epic), Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S.
Of note, the studio’s upcoming Ride 5 has focused its energies on the current consoles only.
Release date
Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 Turbocharged will release on 19th October 2023.
