Game: Train Yard Builder
Genre: Simulation
System: Steam (Windows)
Developers | Publishers: GameFormatic S.A. | Frozen Way, PlayWay S.A.
Stream Deck: Playable
Price: US $19.99 | UK £16.75 | EU € 19,50
Release Date: September 16th, 2024
A review code was used, with many thanks to Outreach PR.
Train Yard Builder is a simulation game recently released by developers GameFormatic S.A. on PC that invites players into the world of model railways.
From the moment you start, the game sets a relaxing tone with its detailed customisation options, immersive mechanics, and serene soundtrack. Whether you’re a dedicated model railway enthusiast or a casual gamer looking for a creative outlet, this game has a lot to offer.
The Gameplay and Mechanics of Train Yard Builder
Train Yard Builder is all about creativity and precision. The game provides you with the tools to build a model railway diorama from scratch, allowing you to design complex rail networks, landscapes, and structures. The variety of trains, wagons, and scenery pieces on offer is pretty impressive. I was quite surprised by the variety of items that offer plenty of customisation options for players to make their miniature railway vision come to life.
The game kicks off with a tutorial that walks you through basic controls and mechanics. Additionally, the first time you move to a new table to work, such as the diorama table, you get a short tutorial on what you can do there.
The tutorial covers the essentials, such as placing parts, operating trains, and completing missions, but it doesn’t dive too deep into the more advanced features. That being said, the learning curve is fairly smooth, and the freedom to experiment makes discovering the game’s nuances enjoyable. Furthermore, if you forget how to do something, you can use the tutorial list in the menu for a quick reminder,
Mission Structure
Train Yard Builder’s main feature is its mission system, which helps you get used to the workstations and how to build a model railway. You can take on various customer orders, ranging from repainting trains to creating custom dioramas. These tasks help break up the freeform sandbox gameplay and offer a rewarding progression. Each mission completed earns money, which can be used to unlock new parts, pieces, and tools for your ultimate museum-worthy diorama.
Some missions, particularly for bigger clients for exhibitions, require precision and attention to detail, offering an extra layer of challenge for those who enjoy meticulous work. The variety of tools provided, from painting stations to different workstations, such as the diorama workstation, helps keep tasks engaging and diverse.
Sandbox Mode
For players like myself who prefer unrestricted creative freedom, the sandbox mode is where Train Yard Builder really comes into its own. In sandbox mode, you can design expansive, detailed railway setups without the constraints of money or mission requirements, as everything is unlocked and free to use.
The ability to terraform landscapes, paint intricate rivers, and place trees, benches, and other scenery elements adds a level of immersion that fans of model railroads will appreciate. The icing on the cake is watching a steam train go around the track that you have built; you also have full control over the movement of the trains from station to station.
The mouse and keyboard controls on PC are intuitive, and tools like the dropper, which allows you to copy objects without digging into your inventory, make the building process much more efficient and streamlined. Whether you want to create a sprawling industrial train yard or a peaceful countryside setup, the game provides ample tools to realise your vision.
Visuals and Sound
Another highlight of Train Yard Builder is the attention to detail. The trains and wagons, drawn from European and Asian brands, are detailed, and the scenery options allow for a wide range of creativity. The classic soundtrack, while simple, complements the game’s relaxing pace.
However, the visuals, while solid, are functional rather than stunning. This fits the game’s simulation focus, but those looking for cutting-edge graphics may find the presentation a bit underwhelming.
When I started playing Train Yard Builder for this review, the game had a few bugs. I also tried running the game on the Steam Deck, but unfortunately, it wouldn’t load at all. However, in the last few days, the developers, GameFormatic S.A., have updated the game and ironed out most of the bugs, and Train Yard Builder also runs pretty well on the Steam Deck now.
Conclusion
Train Yard Builder is a relaxing simulation game that celebrates the joy of building and creativity. With its range of customisation options, missions, and open-ended sandbox mode, it offers something for both dedicated railway enthusiasts and newcomers to the hobby. If you have always wanted to get into model railways but couldn’t afford the kit, then Train Yard Builder might be a good replacement for you.
While the game might not push technical boundaries, its charm lies in the satisfaction of crafting something detailed and personal. If you’ve ever dreamed of designing your own model train diorama, Train Yard Builder is well worth your time.
Final Verdict: I Like it a Lot 
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