A cult classic is given a deserved sequel in one for all the clean freaks, serial organisers and those who binge-watch deep cleaning videos online. After the sleeper hit success of PowerWash Simulator, not much is needed by way of introduction to its bigger, better and blessedly familiar sequel; this one does what it says on the tin, handing players a variety of power washing tools with very few strings attached, and letting them run wild in outrageously filthy sandbox environments.
Naturally, you don’t need to play the first game to hop into this one and enjoy it. In addition to dozens of new levels, there are a handful of quality-of-life adjustments to make this the definitive…um…power washing simulator out there. This is just an obviously great concept for a video game: taking the internet’s favourite chore and turning it into a power fantasy. PowerWash Simulator 2 features some strong level variety, which is absolutely essential given that its core gameplay loop involves picking a tool, adjusting the nozzle angle and size, and spraying away every spot of dirt in sight.
Throughout its decently lengthy campaign, you’ll clean vehicles, mansions, campsites, billboards, and public toilets to name a few. Every job requires a slightly different approach, but once you’ve settled into the flow, it’s deeply meditative and very satisfying — not to mention addictive. Despite the simple concept, it’s always rewarding to see grimy locales transform into sparkling vistas, and the fun timelapse of the full job at the end is a nice touch. Strangely, while the prime directive never wavers (get in, clean everything, get out), PowerWash Simulator 2 never feels repetitive; or perhaps, the repetition is what makes it so compelling.
Between missions, players can visit and decorate a central hub area, as well as spend hard-earned money from jobs to unlock new cleaning tools and cosmetics. Some of the tools are noticeably distinguished from the others, and different surfaces in each area require an adjusted approach and occasionally another tool. There’s also a soap gun to lather any and every surface up before spraying it all away — perfect for those more stubborn patches of grime.
The best thing PowerWash Simulator 2 has going for it, though, is the ability to play through the entire campaign in split-screen. This feature was glaringly absent from the first entry on the Nintendo Switch, particularly given that this experience is tailor-made for some relaxed couch co-op. Finally, co-op is possible in the sequel, and for the most part it runs well on the Switch 2. There are some audio glitches that rear up with two players, with ambient noise from the power washing tools cutting out after a while even if they’re still spraying. Other than that, though, this is a brilliant addition to the Switch and Switch 2’s already impressive catalogue of couch co-op gems.
Settling down for some mindless, meditative fun is the main draw of this title, and it never fails to scratch that itch. The main drawback here is the ugly presentation; the game’s menus and interface are a little lifeless and annoying to navigate with a controller, clearly having been designed for PC first and foremost. Nevertheless, once you’re in the thick of the cleaning action, it’s one of the most satisfying ‘chill out’ experiences around.
