Back in 2014, developer Messhof delivered what I still consider the definitive indie fighting game in Nidhogg. I would never have predicted the devs' eventual pivot into open-world bicycle racing games with the upcoming Wheel World, but after playing through the game's Steam Next Fest demo I'm already in love.
Wheel World's setup involves ghosts and ancient cycling spirits, but all you really need to know is that it takes place in a gorgeous cel-shaded open-world with a delightful aesthetic and vibes that I can only describe as thoroughly chill - even the ancient cycling spirits haunting the land are pretty friendly. Within a couple of minutes you're on a dilapidated bike roaming the countryside.
