Wreckfest proves that a racing game doesn’t need to be called Gran Turismo, Forza, or Need for Speed to be popular. Since driving out of Steam Early Access in 2018, Wreckfest’s carnage-filled racing has earned it a loyal following.
Its success led to ports on PlayStation, Xbox, and, more recently, Nintendo Switch, where it runs surprisingly well.
Just when you thought Bugbear Entertainment’s sublime car-smashing game couldn’t be ported to any other system, THQ Nordic has announced Wreckfest Mobile for Android and iOS. Yes, you read that right: Wreckfest is coming to mobiles so you can wreak havoc wherever you go.
Wreckfest Mobile coming to Android and iOS later this year
Germany’s HandyGames is handling Wreckfest Mobile's development in collaboration with BugBear Entertainment. Part of the THQ Nordic and Embracer Group family, HandyGames is best known for developing and publishing free-to-play mobile games like Townsmen, Clouds & Sheep, 1941 Frozen Front.
Usually, mobile versions of popular racing games have simplified controls. In Forza Street, for example, you don’t even have to steer. In contrast, the trailer confirms Wreckfest Mobile gives you full control, with touch buttons for acceleration, braking, and steering, as well as changing the camera view. There’s also controller support if you prefer, but supported devices are not confirmed yet.
Understandably, the graphics are downgraded for the mobile port. More importantly, Wreckfest Mobile appears to run smoothly, despite all the carnage and 24 cars on-screen. Damage modelling also looks surprisingly detailed for a mobile game, with deforming bodywork, parts detaching from the car, and trackside objects flying in the air.
Like the console and PC version, Wreckfest Mobile features extensive car customisation, allowing you to install reinforced bumpers, roll cages, and side protectors and upgrade engines, air filters, camshafts, and fuel systems.
There will also be online multiplayer, but the player count is not confirmed. For reference, the Switch version has online multiplayer for up to 16 players, down from 24 players in the PS5 and Xbox Series X|S versions.
Release date
There’s no release date yet, but Wreckfest Mobile is coming to Android and iOS devices this autumn. It will be available on the Google Play Store, App Store and Galaxy Store. Pricing details have not been announced, so it remains to be seen if Wreckfest Mobile will be free-to-play.