PowerWash Simulator 2 hands-off preview — Lathering up the sequel

I haven’t played too much of PowerWash Simulator, but what I have played I’ve been absolutely engrossed by, especially in VR. You wouldn’t think taking a real-life job and making it into a game would be relaxing, but it really, really is. Slowly pointing a hose at a house, car, or playground and watching it get clean is incredibly satisfying, and it’s about to get even more so in PowerWash Simulator 2. We had the chance to see the game’s announcement trailer early, and what we saw looks very promising.

PowerWash Simulator 2 will bring back the tactical cleaning action everyone knows and loves, with a few key additions. For one, cleaning large spaces is easier than ever with the new soap system. You can cover an object in soap, then wash it off with a wide nozzle for a quick clean. It seems to leave a lot less dirt behind than in the first game, so soap won’t just be your first pass at getting something clean. 

You’ll also be able to better appreciate your hard work with the improved visuals, using a cel-shading technique. The original had a more realistic bent to it, and I find this new look very pleasing to look at. The developers showed a comparison between lawn gnomes, and the difference is fairly subtle unless you see a direct head to head like this. 

Speaking of, up to four players can put their nozzle-heads together for some spring cleaning, with both online and split-screen co-op. Progression is shared between players too, so you can play through the entire campaign with some friends and not miss a beat when going back to single player. I see multiplayer in a game like this as more of a space to hang out and chat, but it’s great that you won’t have to go through each job multiple times for everyone.

Just like the original, you’ll earn money for each job you complete, but now you can spend that cash on items to decorate your new hub. The hub is your space to arrange (and wash) as you see fit, and it’ll be interesting to see how different players customize their hubs. 

We’ve only seen a glimpse of PowerWash Simulator 2 so far, but it’s clear the game is having a ton of love poured into it. There’s no exact date yet, but the game is slated to come out later this year on every platform save for Switch.