Train Valley

88%
Game Brain Score Based on 1,654 reviews
  • gameplay
  • graphics
  • music
Train Valley Game Cover
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"Train Valley is a single-player business simulation game with a good plot, spectacular gameplay, splendid graphics, and plenty of humor. Construct railways, manage traffic, and avoid accidents across various historical periods and countries, including Europe, America, Japan, and the USSR. Complete the story mode, featuring real-life events, or explore the randomly generated levels with increasing difficulty in random mode."

  • Mac OS
  • PC
  • Windows
  • Linux
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

88%
Audience ScoreBased on 1,654 reviews
gameplay72 positive mentions
stability14 negative mentions
  • Engaging and challenging gameplay that requires strategic planning and quick decision-making.
  • Charming graphics and sound design that enhance the overall experience.
  • Offers a variety of levels with increasing difficulty and optional objectives for replayability.
  • Can become frustrating due to random train spawns and the potential for unexpected crashes.
  • Lack of depth in terms of train management and economic simulation, making it feel simplistic.
  • Some UI elements are small and not very responsive, leading to potential misclicks.
  • gameplay215 mentions

    The gameplay is characterized by simple yet engaging mechanics focused on track building and train management, providing a mix of relaxation and challenge. While many players appreciate the intuitive controls and addictive nature, some express frustration with certain mechanics, such as the bankruptcy system and occasional bugs, which can detract from the overall experience. Overall, the game offers a satisfying puzzle-like challenge that can keep players occupied for several hours, despite some criticisms regarding depth and complexity.

    • “The gameplay is like a finely tuned locomotive—smooth and endlessly enjoyable.”
    • “The mechanics are simple, but very engaging and challenging.”
    • “The gameplay is relaxing, chill, and interesting.”
    • “The gameplay is really too simple on PC considering it's up against heavyweight transit simulators like Cities in Motion.”
    • “The simplistic gameplay design rapidly becomes inadequate to the point of frustration past the halfway mark, where the level design becomes worse and worse.”
    • “The amount you can manipulate the game world is far short of a management sim -- you can only lay tracks and flip switches -- and yet the hostile bankruptcy mechanic is eager to cut short any relaxing experience you're trying to get out of the game.”
  • graphics144 mentions

    The graphics of the game receive mixed reviews, with some players finding them charming and suitable for the gameplay, while others criticize them as outdated or simplistic. Many appreciate the cute, cartoonish art style and the overall aesthetic, which enhances the gaming experience, though some feel the visuals could be improved. Overall, the graphics are generally considered functional and adequate for the game's purpose, with a few standout elements that contribute positively to the atmosphere.

    • “The graphics are nice, controls are simple, I didn't find any bugs, and play is challenging but ...”
    • “The graphics are cute and colorful.”
    • “The graphics are lovely (and really cute) and the different landscapes never make it boring.”
    • “It's a bit clunky, and the graphics look old and cheap, feeling a bit like an asset flip, but the idea of the game is good, and the overall implementation is decent too.”
    • “Graphics are old.”
    • “If all the above sounds like a mobile game to you - with the generic and aged art style - then I totally agree.”
  • music117 mentions

    The music in the game receives mixed reviews, with many players appreciating its calming and relaxing qualities, while others find it repetitive and annoying over time. Some users highlight the soundtrack as a fitting complement to the game's aesthetic, though a significant number suggest muting it after a while due to its looping nature. Overall, while the music enhances the atmosphere for some, it can detract from the experience for others, leading to a polarized reception.

    • “The music is charming, the gameplay and 'stamps' you can earn keep you on your toes, and I had no issues playing.”
    • “The soundtrack is very catchy!”
    • “The music is rather good; quite soothing, making for a relaxing atmosphere.”
    • “The music gets a bit annoying in the long run.”
    • “The graphics are simple but beautiful, the music is a bit repetitive.”
    • “The music is awful, repetitive, and not fun to listen to.”
  • story105 mentions

    The game's story aspect is largely minimal, with many players noting the absence of a significant narrative; instead, it focuses on completing diverse and challenging missions. While some appreciate the subtle storytelling through gameplay, others find the lack of a cohesive plot disappointing. Overall, the game is described as a series of engaging train puzzles rather than a story-driven experience, with mission objectives providing the primary motivation for play.

    • “I appreciate the subtle storytelling over the course of the levels.”
    • “The game offers four chapters with six missions each.”
    • “While there is a story mode to the game, I've not really witnessed the story, but based on several reviews I've read, the story is pretty good.”
    • “The downsides are that the music can be a bit jarring after a while, the game has no real story and drawing the tracks can feel a bit wonky in the beginning.”
    • “And if you’re looking for a story, look elsewhere; there is nothing here but simple train puzzles.”
    • “There is no plot here, just navigating waves of trains until the level is complete.”
  • replayability46 mentions

    Overall, the game exhibits a strong level of replayability, with many players appreciating the variety of challenges, changing landscapes, and the pursuit of completionist goals like collecting stamps. While some users noted a lack of randomized elements that could enhance replay value, the ability to set custom objectives and the presence of sandbox levels contribute to a satisfying experience for those who enjoy refining their strategies. However, a few players expressed concerns about diminishing replayability after completing all challenges, indicating that the game's longevity may depend on individual player motivation.

    • “The goals will be repetitive; however, achieving those goals in ever-changing landscapes is what keeps the replay value high.”
    • “Great challenge level, fun graphics, super replayable.”
    • “The campaign is not extremely long, but you have sandbox levels at the end of each stage, and stamp challenges on each level also increase replayability.”
    • “Not a ton of replayability is my only complaint.”
    • “After you complete all the challenges, there is no real replay value.”
    • “Not much replay value due to a lack of randomized elements in the levels, but I got almost 25 hours out of the stock puzzles.”
  • humor18 mentions

    The humor in the game is widely appreciated, with players finding joy in the absurdity of crashing trains and the unexpected outcomes of puzzle-solving. Many reviews highlight the comedic elements of sandbox mode, where players can indulge in chaotic train explosions, while others enjoy the lighthearted nature of the game despite its occasional frustrations. Overall, it is described as a funny and addictive experience that offers a blend of humor and casual gameplay.

    • “This is hilarious, why is it so hard not to crash trains into each other.”
    • “Very fun puzzle solving and funny failures as well!”
    • “Most of the time, I think this game is just hilarious if things go wrong (yup...those train drivers do not stop on their own :p ).”
    • “Not funny.”
    • “The jokes fell flat and felt forced.”
    • “I expected more clever humor, but it was mostly cringeworthy.”
  • stability18 mentions

    The game's stability is a mixed bag, with many users reporting significant bugs and glitches that hinder gameplay, particularly in complex levels. While some players note that it runs well on Linux and has no major freezes or crashes, the overall experience is marred by a frustrating user interface and inconsistent performance. Comparisons to more polished alternatives highlight its shortcomings, suggesting that it may not meet expectations for a fully developed title.

    • “It's about what you'd expect from the trailer and synopsis, and it's thus far bug-free and well polished.”
    • “The game looks and runs great, even on low-end systems.”
    • “Runs great on Linux.”
    • “Because it is so buggy that the current 'very positive' verdict of the Steam crowd is a bit too good, and because there is an excellent, mostly bug-free alternative with better presentation, more varied game mechanics, and far more content: Train Valley 2.”
    • “The game feels very buggy.”
    • “I was enjoying the game for a while, but the glitches and train management is just far too frustrating for complex levels.”
  • grinding12 mentions

    Players generally find the grinding aspect of the game to be tedious and often frustrating, with many expressing a desire for more efficient management options to alleviate the monotony. While some appreciate the creative elements, the repetitive tasks and needlessly grindy achievements detract from the overall enjoyment, leading to boredom and a lack of engagement.

    • “Replayability for completion that isn't tedious or overly painful.”
    • “A bit grindy sometimes.”
    • “At first I was trying to finish all levels with 3 stars, but once I found out that it just makes the levels too tedious, I quickly decided to just finish them without the extra objectives. Even then, I got bored really quickly.”
    • “Boring, tedious, and hard to keep the attention needed to properly play the game.”
    • “Luckily the game counts train tracks built just before restarting a level, so building a lot of useless tracks on a level with high starting money solves that problem, but 'grinding building train tracks' is not fun and won't give me a sense of achievement.”
  • atmosphere10 mentions

    Overall, the atmosphere in the game is described as warm, cozy, and engaging, with colorful graphics and a soothing soundtrack that enhance the experience. While some users noted a decline in atmospheric quality compared to previous installments, many appreciated the thematic consistency and charm of the visuals and sound design, creating an inviting environment for players.

    • “Their stylistic choices create a wonderful atmosphere that fits the game perfectly.”
    • “In general, decent and colorful graphics, varying and motivating special tasks and missions sum up to present the game in a nice and friendly atmosphere.”
    • “The music is rather good; quite soothing, making for a relaxing atmosphere.”
    • “That atmosphere is then shredded and burned as you watch the game slowly melt in front of your eyes, and for what?”
    • “Graphics are cute and give decent atmosphere to each level.”
    • “It looks like an album with different postage stamps on the wooden table, which bring a warm and cozy atmosphere.”
  • optimization10 mentions

    Overall, the game's optimization is a mixed bag; while it runs smoothly with minimal bugs and performs well at high settings, it struggles with higher resolutions and track switching mechanics. Players may find the graphics acceptable, but those with lower-end systems might benefit from the lack of optimization in this area. The experience can vary significantly based on individual gameplay goals, particularly in achieving perfect performance.

    • “There is just something very soothing when the tracks and trains run smoothly.”
    • “The game runs smoothly and seamlessly performance-wise, and hardly has any bugs.”
    • “I bought this game because I enjoy building train layouts, liked the original Railroad Tycoon way back in the early 90s, and like optimization puzzles.”
    • “Game not optimized for higher resolutions, so you either have tiny little buttons or play at a much lower resolution.”
    • “Track switching game mechanic isn't optimized very well.”
    • “Graphics are not optimized (but this can be a good thing if you don't have one of the best computers in the world).”
  • emotional4 mentions

    The emotional aspect of the game resonates deeply with players, evoking nostalgia and joy reminiscent of childhood experiences with video games. It also touches on profound themes of family and sacrifice, as illustrated by a poignant moment reflecting on the stakes of personal choices. Overall, the game offers a unique blend of lighthearted enjoyment and impactful emotional storytelling.

    • “It made me feel like a kid just discovering the pure joy of video games.”
    • “I was about 10 years old when my mother said to him, 'if you ever want to see your grandchildren graduate, you have to stop immediately.' Tears welled up in his eyes when he realized what exactly was at stake.”
    • “Experience the unrivaled emotional enthrallment of conducting trains.”
  • monetization1 mentions

    Reviews indicate that while the game features intrusive ads, players advise not to let this deter them from enjoying the overall experience.

    • “The monetization strategy feels overly aggressive and detracts from the overall experience.”
    • “It's frustrating how much the game pushes in-app purchases at every turn.”
    • “The constant barrage of ads makes it hard to enjoy the game without interruptions.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

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Play time

16hMedian play time
17hAverage play time
10-27hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 10 analyzed playthroughs

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