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As a die-hard fan of the original game, I have been vibrating with excitement over the release of Powerwash Simulator 2 since it was announced. After dozens of hours spent scrubbing all manner of structures and items, I am happy to report that the second installation in the series is just as delightful as the first, despite a few small hiccups.
Powerwash Simulator 2 combines quirky storytelling with comforting cleaning tasks, offering gamers hours of cozy scrubbing as they get to the bottom of strange mysteries. Many of the issues that plagued the first title have been addressed in this delightful sequel, creating an even more addictive gameplay loop.
Key Details
- Developer: FuturLab
- Publisher: Futurlab
- Price: $24.99
- Platforms: Nintendo Switch 2, Steam, PlayStation 5, Xbox X|S
- Review Code: Yes, for Nintendo Switch 2
Improved Washer Accuracy Creates Less Frustrating Gameplay
In the original PowerWash Simulator, while the loop of scrubbing and cleaning was satisfying, several hang-ups could make finishing levels difficult. Even with the best nozzles equipped, it was possible to miss tiny smudges of dirt that would prevent an area from being 100% completed. It could also be difficult to see what spots needed more cleanup at the end of a job, as the glow effects could be tricky to see.
Within just a few minutes of playing Powerwash Simulator 2, the improvements to the overall mechanics of the first game were apparent. The washers are more effective and efficient at removing dirt, making earlier gameplay less punishing. The targeted wash is also more accurate and removes dirt from crevices and cubbies without as much struggle.
The soaping feature is by far one of the best improvements. In the first game, soap was costly and limited. So much so that trying to use it on jobs was almost not worth the waste of funds. The bottles ran out quickly, and so many types were needed that switching between bottles became a frustrating shuffle of products.
The new soap mechanics make it so players always have suds available, and one type works on everything. Lying the soap down is delightful, and makes the work of cleaning much more fun. I was nervous it would make maps too easy, but instead it just added to the enjoyment of scrubbing away.
A Few Small Hangups Have a Big Impact
Unfortunately, while the game offers layers of optimization, there are also a few hiccups that stand out against otherwise enjoyable mechanics. The first is the “pet the cat” option.
I am always excited to see opportunities for engagement in an environment. The chance to pet the kitties adopted from the first game is initially delightful – until you actually do it. Unfortunately, “petting” equates to the character avatar simply waving their hand above the selected cat. This doesn’t look like petting and is more awkward than cute. In moments like these, I think it is better to skip an inclusion than add a quick and unintegrated animation.
This is also seen in the new SwirlForce cleaner, which has the most awkward animations. A lack of cast shadow makes it seem as if the attachment isn’t touching the ground, creating a lack of depth when in use. This is unusual, as none of the other attachments experience the issue. However, most are enhanced versions of tools from the first game.
Because the rest of the game runs so smoothly, these quirks stand in sharp contrast to the good in Powerwash Simulator 2.
New Features Are Fun, But Not Needed
In Powerwash Simulator 2, there are several new ways to spend time, including the decoration of a home base and the customization of player outfits. While these additions are nice, I’ll admit I never spent any time decorating my base. I would have preferred additional maps on launch to the base, as I had no interest in spending my time doing anything but cleaning.
The new options feel like they were added to compete with House Flipper 2, but Powerwash Simulator 2 does something different from the repair and decoration sim, and it didn’t need the extras to be a complete game.
Despite this, those who enjoy a break from scrubbing may like spending some time throwing furniture down at the base, and looking through the clues about the storylines left on the pinboard.
Final Score – 8/10
Powerwash Simulator 2 is a wonderful second installment of a series I have always loved deeply. It will scratch all the same itches as the first game, with new maps, improved graphics, and a promising roadmap of additional paid and free content for years to come.
Despite a few hiccups that will hopefully see patches in the coming months, the game is worth grabbing and will be a great way to cozy up during the cold winter months. It is just the right combination of cozy and relaxing to wind down with at the end of the day.
**Bonus Action was provided with a Nintendo Switch 2 code of Powerwash Simulator 2 for the purpose of this review**
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