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Released by Square Enix in May 2021, Powerwash Simulator allows players to take control of a power-washing business in the appropriately-named town of Muckingham. Viewed from the first-person perspective, the game encourages players to jet-spray dirt and grime off a variety of objects and households – a distinct departure from the spray of bullets that is typically seen in the first-person viewpoint. With its focus on cleanliness over kill counts, Powerwash Simulator somehow takes the mundane task of washing and turns it into an extremely satisfying and zen-like experience.
A Life Of Grime
The main game mode is ‘Career Mode’, in which the player is tasked with cleaning jobs with ever-increasing difficulty and scale, starting off with your own cleaning van before branching out into back gardens, fairground rides and skateboard parks. As you complete each mission, you earn money that can be invested back into the business in the form of more powerful jet washers, specific accessories to reach further distances or simply, a new pair of gloves. The customisation options are fairly basic and I never felt like there was a need to manage resources or money – it was a case of just purchasing the next upgrade once I had earned enough money. It would have been nice to see some sort of business-management element here, such as paying for breakages, water expenses, etc. For the most part, the focus is on relaxation – there are no major obstacles to overcome in Career Mode – no time limits, no water shortages and no life bars. You simply wash away the dirt until it is all clean – but despite this simplicity, the game remains utterly enthralling and I found myself wanting to “just finish cleaning this bit”. The satisfaction of watching layers of dirt disappear under the pressure of your power washer is oddly therapeutic. The game offers a variety of missions and locations, keeping the experience from becoming repetitive, although it does lack any in-depth storyline to engage the player. For those wanting a bit more of a challenge, the game does offer a “Challenge Mode” which places restrictions on water usage and time, but this actually detracts from the experience – making it more stressful and frustrating.
Zen And The Art Of Power-washing
Graphically, the game is stunning with some lovely textured environments, making the dirty surfaces you're tasked with cleaning all the more satisfying to watch as they transform. The attention to detail in the dirt and grime textures is impressive, and the locations are well-designed and encourage players to explore every nook and cranny to ensure 100% completion. One of the more time-consuming levels was the treehouse, which felt tremendously expansive with multiple layers and fences to traverse. Another favourite was the Ferris Wheel, which players could actually ride whilst cleaning, adding a whole new dynamic to the gameplay. The sound design, whilst minimalistic, complements the overall experience, with the hum of the power washer, the splashing of water, and the subtle background music creating an immersive atmosphere. I found it more enjoyable to play a podcast on my mobile phone whilst I cleaning, making the simulation more authentic as I’m sure most professional power-washers have their earbuds on whilst they work. The game also encourages co-operative play with the entire set of missions available in a multiplayer format. Playing alongside a friend not only speeds up the cleaning process (an welcome addition on some of the larger jobs) but it also creates a relaxing atmosphere as you both work to clear the dirt and grease, chatting aimlessly away. The game features a number of achievements and trophies, most of which relate to cleaning specific areas first or performing tricks with the Jetstream, such as pushing a football up a slide. None of the achievements are ultra-difficult and instead reward players for completing the tasks in a set fashion. Achievement fanatics will find this an easy list, albeit a time-consuming one.
Exploring Other Worlds
While the game packs plenty of content straight out of the box, there are additional worlds to explore through free and paid DLC packs; a free seasonal update allows players to take a hose to Santa’s workshop, whilst Square Enix also allows players to explore other games in its portfolio with Tomb Raider and Final Fantasy VII packs. If those weren’t enough, players can also purchase additional levels themed on Back to the Future and SpongeBob Squarepants, giving us the opportunity to polish up Doc Brown’s flux capacitor or give the Krusty Krab a clean-up. The fact that most of this content is free shows the level of support for the title, extending its shelf-life dramatically.
Verdict
In conclusion, Powerwash Simulator is a relaxing addition to the simulator range – one that channels into the ASMR and OCD elements of power-washing to create a truly satisfying experience. It might not have the high stakes or narrative impact as some of the other titles in Square Enix’s library, but it is an ideal de-stresser after a long day’s work – unless, of course, you work as a Powerwasher…
