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Review of Railway Empire on Nintendo Switch

by Gemma Looksby Gemma Looksby photo Feb 2020
Cover image of Railway Empire on Switch
Gamefings Score: 8
Platform: Switch Switch logo
Released: 14 Feb 2020
Genre: Construction and management simulation
Developer: Gaming Minds Studio
Publisher: Kalypso Media

Introduction

Ever wanted to build your own railroad empire, boss around various personnel, and laugh as your competitors crumble in their tracks like a poorly assembled Lego set? Well, grab your conductor's hat, because 'Railway Empire' on Nintendo Switch is just the ticket! This game promises to take you on a wild ride through the 1830s to the 1930s, all from the comfort of your couch. So, put the kettle on, and let's dive into this delightful journey!

Gameplay

Imagine a sandbox where instead of building sandcastles, you construct intricate railway networks connecting cities, industries, and the occasional potato farmer. That's the whimsical world of 'Railway Empire'! The game features several modes to keep your inner tycoon satisfied: campaign, scenario, free mode, sandbox mode, and challenge mode. Feel like a rail baron in 'Campaign mode' as you lay track for the First Transcontinental Railroad while keeping a wary eye on AI competitors (who totally don't know that you're about to put them out of business). In 'Scenario mode', you can choose from different opponents, each with their own unique quirks-because who doesn't love a good competition?! In 'Free mode', you can relax as tasks are randomly generated, or toggle the number of competitors to zero (pro tip: nothing feels as satisfying as a ghost town with unlimited funds). If you're looking for some no-stress playtime, 'Sandbox mode' lets you build to your heart's desire with infinite money and no pesky competitors. It's like playing with toy trains but with way more spreadsheets. Then, there's the 'Challenge mode', which adds some friendly rivalry with online leaderboards that can make or break your social life depending on your competitive spirit. Just remember, no one can hear your cries of suffering when your trains collide in snowy passes-thanks, winter mechanics! All in all, you'll manage cities, hire bumbling personnel, and progress through time, unlocking shiny new locomotives and cool upgrades like you're a train-wielding Tony Stark. Just maybe don't forget to feed your crew... they get cranky when under-caffeinated!

Graphics

Let's talk about graphics because, let's be real, eye candy is important-even in the gritty world of trains! 'Railway Empire' charms you with its colorful landscapes rendered beautifully for the whimsical mind. The cities you build are full of life, bustling and growing with your rail expansions. You'll spot little people scurrying about their daily lives, probably late for their trains because you didn't build that last section of track fast enough. Oops! The locomotives themselves? They glimmer and shine like a polished apple, looking good enough that you might want to give them a name and invite them for dinner. While it doesn't quite have the jaw-dropping realism of some modern graphics engines, it has its own charming vibe that reels you in and makes you feel like a rail magnate-one without the greasy hair and top hats. The user interface is intuitive and clean, so you won't need to decipher a treasure map just to lay down some tracks. More experienced players will appreciate how easy it is to navigate menus and controls, allowing you to get your empire rolling in no time!

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you've ever fancied yourself a rail magnate-or just want an excuse to yell at virtual conductors-'Railway Empire' on Nintendo Switch is an excellent way to spend those long hours that would otherwise be filled with existential dread. With its engaging gameplay and charming graphics, you will find yourself coming back to manage the world's best railroad empire time and time again. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a monopoly to build, a staff to micromanage, and a train that needs to get back on track (literally!). All aboard for shenanigans and good times-happy railroading!

See Latest Prices for Railway Empire on Switch on Amazon

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