Review #048 – PowerWash Simulator 2

PowerWash Simulator 2’s core gameplay maintains the series’ chill and satisfying vibes, but its lack of evolution makes it read more like an expansion rather than a true successor. Sure, a game about cleaning dirt off of various surfaces can only go so far—what was I expecting, the Mass Effect 2 of power washing? I just feel like the envelope could’ve been pushed a little more.

My biggest issue is that the stages feel very static. I always envisioned a sequel having crazier scenarios, like washing the top of a speeding train, or cleaning a spacecraft on the moon with low gravity. I already washed a bunch of stationary vehicles and large buildings in the first game—I was hoping for something a little more inventive.

The game needs more accessibility settings too, like being able to adjust the stick dead zones. And why does the in-game store have such a limited supply of customization options? Ultimately, yes—the loop of washing, earning money, and upgrading tools is still a good time, but the lack of advancement and creativity really makes it feel like an expansion to the first game.