A-Train Review: A Classic That Still Holds Up
Released in 1985 by ArtDink, A-Train was one of the pioneering games in the transport simulation genre, combining city-building, rail management, and economic strategy into a single experience. Although it may be considered a bit dated by today’s standards, A-Train still holds up as a classic that laid the groundwork for many of the simulation games that would follow.
Fun Fact: A-Train was ahead of its time when it came to managing transport networks. It was one of the first games to feature detailed train scheduling and an economy that relied heavily on efficient logistics.
Gameplay and Mechanics
At its core, A-Train is a transport management simulator. Players are tasked with building and expanding a railway network that connects different parts of a growing city. The game integrates economic management and city-building, where the success of your transport system directly impacts the prosperity of your city.
While the controls may feel a bit clunky by modern standards, A-Train offers a deep level of strategy that challenges players to balance their finances, manage train schedules, and optimize their city’s growth. There’s a great sense of accomplishment when you see your trains running on time and your city thriving, making the game incredibly rewarding despite its dated interface.
Quote to Ponder: “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” – Steve Jobs. A-Train requires patience and passion to master, but the payoff is worth it.
Graphics and Sound
- A-Train*’s graphics, while charming for their time, are decidedly retro. The pixel art design has an old-school charm, but modern players may find the visuals a bit basic compared to today’s graphically advanced games. That said, the simplicity of the design doesn’t detract from the core gameplay, and the focus on functionality over flair makes sense for a simulation game.
The sound design is similarly simple but effective. The background music sets a relaxing atmosphere, while the sound effects, like the chugging of trains and station announcements, enhance the immersive experience.
Replayability and Influence
What makes A-Train stand out is its deep mechanics, which allow for countless ways to play. Whether you’re focused on maximizing profits or creating the most intricate rail network, there’s always something new to try. This replayability is one of the reasons A-Train has endured as a classic.
The game also had a major influence on later transport simulation games, with titles like Transport Tycoon and Cities: Skylines borrowing key elements from A-Train. Its combination of city-building and transport management became the blueprint for a whole genre.
Final Thoughts
While A-Train may not have the flashy visuals or fast-paced gameplay of modern titles, its depth and strategic gameplay make it a timeless classic for simulation fans. If you’re a fan of city-building or transport management, A-Train is well worth revisiting.