TRAIN CREW
- September 30, 2021
- Mizotsuki Rail / acty
Get on Steam"Train Crew" is a simulation game that allows players to operate a train on the Tatehama Electric Railway in Japan. By tilting the master controller, players can accelerate and brake the train, and perform other operations such as sounding the horn and switching viewpoints. Conductors can also open and close doors, make announcements, and conduct safety checks. The game is live distribution-friendly and encourages players to share their experiences.
Reviews
- The game offers a unique and immersive experience for fans of Japanese railways, with excellent driving mechanics and a realistic scoring system.
- The addition of 'Conductor Mode' allows players to engage in a new aspect of train operation, enhancing the overall gameplay experience.
- Despite being in Early Access, the game is well-optimized, runs smoothly, and has a dedicated development team that actively updates and improves the game.
- The current route length is limited, which may leave players wanting more content and variety in their gameplay experience.
- Graphics are simplistic and may not meet the expectations of players looking for a more visually stunning train simulator.
- Some players have expressed concerns about the game's pricing model, particularly regarding the planned DLC for additional routes, which could be perceived as a cash grab.
- graphics16 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 56 % neutral mentions
- 19 % negative mentions
The graphics in this Japanese rail simulation are generally considered simplistic and not photo-realistic, with some users noting they appear flat and dull. However, the smooth performance and the game's depth of simulation are praised, suggesting that while the visuals may not compete with higher-end titles, they effectively support the gameplay experience. Overall, the graphics are deemed adequate for the game's purpose, though there is hope for future improvements as it remains in early access.
“The models continue to improve graphically.”
“A fine balance of gameplay and simulation, coupled with a hit Japanese VGM soundtrack, and simple, clean graphical charm.”
“The game is still early access but I hope they work on the graphics; they are currently a bit flat and dull looking.”
“While the graphics are fairly simplistic in regards to model and texture details, they get the flair right.”
“I would not recommend spending $15 on a short train sim with subpar graphics.”
- optimization5 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 60 % negative mentions
The optimization of the game is a mixed bag; while it is generally well-optimized and visually appealing, some users experience stuttering and performance issues, particularly when rendering in 4K at 60fps on high-end hardware like the RTX 3070. Additionally, the lack of viewport customization and immersive features detracts from the overall experience.
“I would love to be able to manage a train with a defect back to a depot while trying to keep to time and not causing any further disruption or having weather affect the train or passenger's performance.”
“It's made in Unity, is well optimized, and looks great despite not being photorealistic.”
“While other video-type train sims are nice, they somehow feel less immersive than Train Crew because of the stuttering when you go out of the normal speed profile, and the lack of being able to change your viewport.”
“Performance - in some places the sim struggles to render in 4K at 60fps, even on an RTX 3070.”
“And I am not just talking about the performance; I am talking about the game as a whole.”
- gameplay4 mentions
- 75 % positive mentions
- -50 % neutral mentions
- 75 % negative mentions
The gameplay is highly praised for its quality and balance between simulation and enjoyment, featuring engaging train mechanics, well-designed routes, and scenarios. The addition of a captivating Japanese VGM soundtrack and appealing graphics enhances the overall experience, making it a standout in train simulation games.
“A fine balance of gameplay and simulation, coupled with a hit Japanese VGM soundtrack, and simple, clean graphical charm.”
“Train crew is in rare air, at the pinnacle of train simulation and gameplay.”
“Gameplay-wise, it's what you would expect; trains are good, routes and scenarios are good, and it's fun to play.”
“Gameplay-wise, it's what you would expect; trains are good, routes and scenarios are good, but it lacks depth and variety.”
“The gameplay feels repetitive after a while, making it hard to stay engaged.”
“While the graphics are charming, the gameplay mechanics are clunky and can be frustrating.”
- replayability3 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- -33 % neutral mentions
- 67 % negative mentions
The game offers strong replayability due to its diverse service patterns and train models, as well as distinct route sections that enhance the driving experience. While current content is somewhat limited, the challenge of achieving high scores and the planned future expansions contribute to its lasting appeal.
“Since there are multiple service patterns and train models, there's good replayability, and the various sections of the route also feel different enough (e.g. there's a pretty steep ramp towards Daidoji).”
“Despite the content being limited as of now, there is plenty of replay value as this game simulates many parts of driving a train, making it quite challenging to achieve a high score.”
“However, the content is limited as of now, with plans to extend the line in the near future. Despite that, there is plenty of replay value as this game simulates many parts of driving a train, making it quite difficult to achieve a high score.”
“It's the feel, the atmosphere, and replayability.”
- stability1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Overall, users report that the game is stable and largely free of bugs, attributing this to the efforts of a commendable development team.
“It's bug-free (from what I've seen) and has a very wonderful development team!”
“The game runs smoothly without any crashes or major issues.”
“I appreciate how stable the gameplay is; it really enhances the overall experience.”
- monetization1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -500 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The monetization model of this train simulator is praised for its lack of DLC and microtransactions, offering a more realistic experience compared to competitors like Train Simulator 20xx.
“Unlike other train simulators, this game offers a high level of realism without relying on DLC or microtransactions.”
“The monetization model is fair and does not hinder the overall experience, allowing players to enjoy the game fully without constant upsells.”
“I appreciate that the game provides a complete experience without pushing for additional purchases, making it accessible for all players.”
“The monetization model is frustrating, as it feels like the game is constantly pushing for additional purchases.”
“I can't believe how many microtransactions are crammed into this game; it really detracts from the overall experience.”
“The reliance on DLCs for basic content is disappointing and makes the game feel incomplete without spending extra money.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Reviewers highlight that the game's atmosphere significantly enhances the overall experience, contributing to its immersive feel and encouraging replayability.
“It's the feel, the atmosphere, and replayability.”
- music1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is highlighted as a standout feature, featuring a captivating Japanese video game music (VGM) soundtrack that complements the gameplay and simulation elements effectively, all while enhancing the game's simple and charming graphics.
“A fine balance of gameplay and simulation, coupled with a hit Japanese VGM soundtrack, and simple, clean graphical charm.”
