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WheelMates Is Like It Takes Two and Micro Machines Combined
WheelMates is a forthcoming cooperative puzzle-adventure game in which two players control remote-controlled cars exploring a mad scientist’s home and laboratory. Its blend of split-screen-style collaboration, domestic-scale driving and puzzle-solving invites comparison with It Takes Two and Micro Machines, while its online co-op support could make it more accessible than many couch co-op games.
The game launches for PC on Tuesday 1 September and centres on the disappearance of Professor Everett Bloom. Players unlock abilities including magnetic wheels, a rope and a magnetic grabber to reach new areas and uncover secrets; unlike It Takes Two, it avoids combat and boss battles in favour of peaceful exploration. It also uses a Friend Pass system, so only one player needs to own the game for two people to play online.
In short
- WheelMates brings cooperative car-based puzzles to PC on 1 September.
- Players explore a scientist’s home using unlockable traversal abilities.
- One purchase supports online co-op through a Friend Pass.
Explained simply
Co-operative games are designed for two or more players to work together towards shared goals. Some are made for people playing side by side on one screen, while online co-op lets players join from separate devices.
WheelMates is set in the home and laboratory of Professor Everett Bloom, where players drive remote-controlled cars and solve puzzles together. Its small-scale setting and split-screen-style play have drawn comparisons with It Takes Two, a co-op adventure, and Micro Machines, a series of racing games featuring miniature cars.
The game focuses on exploration rather than combat, with new tools opening up more of the environment. Online play and a Friend Pass, which lets a second player join without buying another copy, are relevant to players deciding how to play together.