Savage Wheels is a top-down, 2D car crashing game where up to 2 to 4 vehicles take part in a deadly tournament.

The goal is to eliminate the other derby contestants. Players may choose from a variety of vehicles and drivers, each with its unique characteristics including speed, acceleration, armor, and damage. Various bonuses may be collected during the match to increase the vehicle speed and damage or to repair it.

Gameplay modes include a campaign, hot-seat mode between two players or melee mode where the game AI controls other vehicles.

All drivers have unique background stories which are uncovered as you go in campaign mode.