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Review of A-Train Express on PS4

by Chucky Chucky photo May 2019
Cover image of A-Train Express on PS4
Gamefings Score: 6
Platform: PS4 PS4 logo
Released: 22 May 2019
Genre: Business Simulation
Developer: Artdink
Publisher: Degica Games

Introduction

Welcome to A-Train Express, the game that lets you be a train conductor without needing to worry about those pesky tickets or unruly passengers. It's a world where the biggest drama revolves around your rail network decisions and not your love life. Yes, let's dive deep into this fascinating underbelly of public transport!

Gameplay

So, what exactly do you do in A-Train Express? Well, you get a city, some money, and a big ol’ track yard with a bunch of trains. Your job is to build your railway company from the ground up, without actually having to wear a conductor's hat. Your competitors? None, because you’re the only game in town! You manage resources, lay down tracks, build stations, and watch as beautiful tiny buildings pop up in your perfectly landscaped (or chaotically structured) city—all while quietly spiraling into economic despair. The game is also playable in VR! Because nothing relieves stress like peering over a tiny city like a voyeuristic god. The gameplay mechanics feel a bit complicated at first. Sure, you’ll get the hang of it, but expect to spend some time figuring out whether your trains are more like tortoises or hares when it comes to speed. You’ll also need to manage the financial aspects, so if you thought your accounting class was finally over, ha! Think again! You’ll be forecasting, calculating fares, and justifying your spending like a banker in a financial crisis. It's calming and utterly maddening all at the same time. Just don't make any hasty decisions that could crash your finances, or you might find yourself down an economic black hole faster than you can say 'budget cut'.

Graphics

Graphically, A-Train Express is about as stunning as a train station at 3 AM—flattering but overall somewhat bleak. The graphics are serviceable but definitely have that ‘budget-friendly’ feel. The trains look nice, I guess, but they aren't exactly the cutting edge of the graphic arts. Remember those toy train sets you had as a kid? Imagine if they had a slightly subdued glow-up. If you’re looking for jaw-dropping visuals, you might want to hop onto another train.

Conclusion

In conclusion, A-Train Express is perfect for those who find joy in managing numbers and watching tiny trains race around layouts that only you can make sense of. If you enjoy a slow-paced simulation that takes you on a leisurely journey through public transport management, then hop aboard. Just remember, while public transport can be a relaxing experience, it’s often the unsung hero of its own dysfunction, much like your love life. It may not be thrilling, but it’s worth a go if you're into strategy and city-building. So buckle up, grab your top hat, and try not to lose too much money—you’ll need it for the DLCs!

See Latest Prices for A-Train Express on PS4 on Amazon

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