a future Annapurna Interactive The game has recently found a new name for itself. From the back studio needhog Games, Annapurna is published Soul bike– Revealed in 2023 – Renamed.
Known for releasing games like wandering and Wild outsideAnnapurna Interactive is a big name in the indie scene. Formed in 2016 as part of Annapurna Pictures, the publisher has in many ways replaced its media entity. This rise to prominence culminated in September of this year, when all Annapurna Interactive staff resigned – citing the failure of negotiations to create Annapurna Interactive as an independent entity.
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Annapurna Interactive's Ghost Bike has been renamed World of Wheels
Amid the conflict between Annapurna Interactive and Annapurna Pictures, a number of games have been caught in the crossfire. It is among these titles Soul bikeis a bike racing game announced in 2023 that was originally scheduled for release in 2024. A fantasy racing game presented in a beautiful cel-shaded art style. Soul bike Not only has it been delayed until 2025, it has also been the subject of a name change. On October 17, developer Messhof announced this Soul bike The name has been changed wheel worlda movement to reflect the change of tone.
Wheel World's name change reflects a change in tone and sensibility
wheel world Developed by Messhof, the studio behind the series of sword fighting games needhoghas included the details of this name change in its announcement. One of the main reasons is the change in tone. wheel worldThe plot used to revolve around its hero dying in a bike accident and waking up in some sort of biker Valhalla. Interestingly, the description is related to the original version Soul bike The trailer noted that the scene, even at the time, was called “The World on Wheels.” However, the game's Steam page now lacks details about the afterlife for bikers, focusing more on a story about a biker performing a ritual to save the world (with the help of ancient biker spirits).
Post in wheel worldThe Steam page also revealed that the original title is based on the actual practice of Ghost Bike Monuments. These usually involve white bicycles being placed at spots where a cyclist has been killed by a car, serving as both a memorial to the deceased and a reminder to motorists to drive safely. The name was more in line with the original plot, but the move away from darker themes led to its retirement. Sensitive topics can often be the reason for in-game name changes, with titles such as World of Warcraft A source for many examples – albeit much more extreme ones.
Wheel World has been delayed until 2025
Masov has been stricter in this matter wheel worldLag, although it's not hard to deduce the reasoning behind it. wheel worldThe shift to a lighter narrative is rooted in the game's mechanics, as noted in Messhof's Steam page announcement. The announcement states that the story and tone have changed “as everything in the gameplay changes,” which suggests wheel world There have been many changes under the hood.
Additionally, although this is speculation, Annapurna Interactive's internal disputes may be a factor in the delay. Although it has been claimed by some developers that they have received word that all agreements will be honored, Annapurna has barely had more than a month to recover from the mass resignation of all 25 of its employees. Such a development may not have a direct impact on development wheel worldbut to some extent it can be assumed that these events could have played a role. however, wheel worldThe change to version 2025 does not prevent it from being a Day 1 Xbox Game Pass game.
Welcome to the world of wheels, where the fate of the world is at your fingertips.
You are Kat, a young biker with a mission: save Wheel World from total collapse. Explore a stunning open world full of spectacular scenery, hidden secrets and races that will test your skills. Customize your bike with an endless selection of parts, from stylish speedsters to off-road beasts—there's no limit to how you can ride.
The wheel world is full of things to do:
Race and Dominate: Take part in high-profile races with elite cycling teams and outlandish rivals where every second counts.
UPGRADE YOUR RIDE: Scour the world for rare parts to build the ultimate bike that perfectly suits your style.
Fulfill Your Destiny: Recover your stolen legendary pieces to finally perform The Great Shift ritual and save the world. It is not important.
All of this is supported by the original soundtrack from the Italians You Better Do, which brings energy to every match and moment of breathtaking semi-open world exploration.
It's time to pedal your way to glory, save the souls of Wheel World, and keep the world on track. Ride, ride fast and don't look back.
- was published
- 2025
- Developers
- Masov games
