Hot Wheels Unleashed was a major success for developer Milestone. With over two million copies sold, it’s the Italian studio’s best-selling game by a mile. As a result, a sequel should be an instant hit. This is not the case, sadly, as Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 has underperformed.
Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 sales were “below management expectations”
No sales figures were released, but sales for Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged fell “slightly below management expectations” according to Embracer Group’s Q3 FY 2023/24 report.
“The main revenue drivers among new releases in the quarter were Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged, Risk of Rain Returns and Arizona Sunshine 2 (VR),” the report reads.
“Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged was well-received by critics and players, but performed slightly below management expectations, likely partly due to a crowded release window.”
It’s a stark contrast to the first game. Since launching in 2021, Hot Wheels Unleashed has sold over two million copies with more than eight million players registered across platforms. This doesn’t necessarily mean Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 sold badly however, as executives will have likely had higher expectations after the original game became a smash hit.
Why didn’t Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 sell well?
As the report states, Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 launched during a crowded period. Last October was one of the busiest months for new game releases last year, with high-profile releases like Alan Wake 2, Spider-Man 2, and Assassin's Creed Mirage. In the racing genre, October also saw the release of Forza Motorsport, followed by EA Sports WRC in November.
While Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 is an arcade racer, limited marketing meant that many fans of the original didn’t know there was a sequel. It’s a shame because Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 is a solid arcade racer and a worthy sequel.
With new outdoor environments, more vehicle types, and tactical gameplay improvements, it improves on the original in every way. Hopefully, the game’s positive reception and word of mouth will help boost sales.
Milestone continues to support Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 with multiple Season Pass Volumes bringing new cars and environments in DLC packs, including the new Made in Italy expansion.
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to get the latest racing game news and deals straight to your inbox!