Remember the unexpected phenomenon that was PowerWash Simulator? That wonderfully peculiar game captivated players with its uniquely calming and deeply satisfying premise: simply cleaning dirt off various objects. Now, PowerWash Simulator 2 is here, and rest assured, it hasn’t reinvented the wheel of power washing. It doesn’t aim to profoundly change your perspective on grime in 2025. Instead, it wisely doubles down on the delightful simplicity that made the original so compelling. What fans truly wanted – and what this sequel delivers – are thoughtful quality-of-life enhancements and an abundance of exciting new messes to tackle. As someone with over 400 hours in the first game, I can confidently say this installment will easily see me accumulate another 400 hours of spotless fun.
For newcomers to the series, the concept remains wonderfully simple. You’re presented with a dirty object or environment – be it a vehicle or an entire location – along with a selection of power washers, various nozzles (each offering different spray patterns, like the focused yellow or the broader green), and versatile cleaning soaps. Levels might even feature helpful tools like ladders for those hard-to-reach spots. The true genius of PowerWash Simulator lies in its forgiving nature: you literally cannot fail. Simply keep blasting water at the grime, and eventually, everything will become pristine. Even without equipment upgrades, patience ensures a sparkling finish.
What We Said About PowerWash Simulator (2022)
In our original review, PowerWash Simulator was lauded for its undeniably cathartic experience, despite not offering the expansive variety or progression seen in other games. As reviewer Simon Cardy put it on July 19, 2022, “Did I have a highly relaxing time cleaning building after building to within an inch of their life? Absolutely.” The game delivered pure, unadulterated cleaning joy. The original PowerWash Simulator scored a 7/10.
The main attraction in this sequel is undoubtedly the vast array of new cleaning assignments, and they are excellent. Players will find themselves tackling everything from quirky vehicles, such as a mobility scooter or a dog-themed car, to an assortment of structures like bandstands, public restrooms, and impressive grand houses. The game also introduces engaging multi-stage jobs, where cleaning one section unlocks further areas to restore. This offers a fantastic balance: larger, more intricate jobs for extended, focused cleaning sessions, and smaller vehicles perfect for quick bursts of satisfying progress. While a customizable home base and virtual pet cats are present, their appeal might be limited for players solely focused on the core power washing experience.
Perhaps the most significant and welcome improvement comes in the form of soap: it’s now both free and universally applicable. This change, far from a mere detail, eradicates one of the original game’s most persistent frustrations. Previously, soap was a purchasable, limited resource, with specific types required for different surfaces. Now, simply activate the soap attachment, and any surface can be transformed into a sudsy delight, effortlessly breaking down stubborn stains. Furthermore, new in-game icons have been added to help players pinpoint any lingering spots that require attention. This might seem like a small tweak, but for veterans who’ve spent countless hours hunting for that elusive 1% of dirt, it’s a game-changer.
Beyond the soap overhaul, a suite of new tools has been introduced to streamline the cleaning process without diminishing the core challenge. An abseiling rig makes cleaning towering structures like billboards much more accessible. A convenient cherry picker lift eliminates the precarious balancing act on ladders for elevated areas. And for expansive flat surfaces, a spinning surface cleaner, reminiscent of those used by professional janitors, makes quick work of large areas. Even subtle improvements, such as external ladders on tall scaffolding, demonstrate a clear focus on enhancing player comfort and efficiency without compromising the satisfying grind.
Crucially, none of these improvements aim to rush you through tasks or let you bypass the core gameplay. The very essence of both PowerWash Simulator and its sequel lies in the meditative, almost trance-like state achieved by diligently blasting away grime and graffiti. The rhythmic back-and-forth motion, coupled with the soothing hiss of the water, creates an experience that is truly underrated as a form of ASMR. Just be prepared for frequent bathroom breaks!
For anyone new to the world of virtual jet washing, there’s no complex lore to catch up on. The game’s narrative is minimal, conveyed through optional text messages received during jobs, which often explain the quirky reasons behind your cleaning assignments (like a street sweeper coated in huckleberry jelly) or offer amusing local tidbits. Fans of the original will appreciate subtle nods and references, such as a shooting gallery featuring miniature versions of familiar landmarks and NPC dialogue mentioning iconic sights like the merman statue. It’s all wonderfully nonsensical, yet perfectly charming.
Verdict
PowerWash Simulator 2 stands as a shining example of a sequel done right. It masterfully refines an already beloved formula, recognizing precisely which elements needed a subtle polish and which were best left untouched. The core appeal – the meditative ritual of cleaning, the endearing whimsical humor, and the profound satisfaction of transforming filth into sparkling purity – remains gloriously intact. With ample new content and thoughtful quality-of-life upgrades, this game more than earns its ‘2’, retaining the irresistible charm and addictive nature of its predecessor.