Wreckfest 2 looks like it’s going to be a big hit

Vehicular damage. Not something that videogames are traditionally all that good at recreating, licensing agreements with manufacturers being such as they are. The original Wreckfest’s solution was to make a wager with the player: make the damage model spectacular enough, and we’ll all stop caring that the cars are fictional. The bet paid off.

That’s why we’re particularly pleased to catch wind of Wreckfest 2, announced recently at the THQ Nordic Showcase event and looking even more accomplished at causing smashes that Michael Bay himself would shed a reverent tear over.

Just like the first game, it’s the work of Finnish studio Bugbear Entertainment, whose previous work includes classic racers like the FlatOut series and – if you really want a deep cut – Rally Trophy from back in 2001.

In addition to an even better damage model, there’s some deeper visual customisation on offer this time too. Individual bodywork panels can be painted different colours, and offensive slogans added to your taste.

Splitscreen multiplayer joins the feature list for the first time, and the new audio design has been described by Bugbear as “a game changer”. Oh, to be a fly on the wall during that Foley art session.

What we’re most looking forward to, though, is another chance to indulge in Wreckfest’s cathartic brand of elbows-out online multiplayer. After dutifully preserving our safety ratings in Gran Turismo and Assetto Corsa Competizione, having a place where contact is not only allowed but encouraged feels like finding an oasis in the dry sim racing desert.

There’s no word on a release date yet from THQ Nordic or Bugbear, but we do know that Wreckfest 2 will be available on PC, PS5 and Xbox Series X/S.