Info about Railroads Online:

Official game description:
Extended Edition Bundle
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Enjoy the latest Railroads Online updates now:
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*   The **Anniversary Update** includes the completely new "Lake Valley" map, varied gameplay with the ability to freely place all industrial buildings on the map, new buildings, a new locomotive, and a new passenger car.   
*   The **Tutorial & Wiki Updates** introduce an extensive tutorial, an in-game encyclopedia, and a new industry to the game. The new tutorial makes it easier than ever to get started in the game! And the wiki covers diverse topics such as track construction, industries, and cargo – for even better accessibility.
About the Game
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Set in a huge open world reminiscent of the Americas during the golden age of steam trains, Railroads Online puts you in the role of a pioneer helping to shape the future of America. Build tracks, traverse vast landscapes in various steam locomotives, transport goods to earn money, and customize and buy new locomotives and equipment as you grow to become a railroad tycoon. Play alone or with up to 15 friends in the online cooperative multiplayer mode on 4 different large maps including Lake Valley, Aurora Falls, Pine Valley and Mesa Plains.
**Tracks, trains & more**
Design your dream rail network from the ground up. Explore the world, scout the best route and lay down embankments, switches, turntables and more. Select and build tracks, bridges and other infrastructure buildings afterwards. Then cross the vast, open landscape in finely detailed locomotives and wagons. Interact with regulators, valves, brakes, couplers, and many more features in first-person view as you drive your vehicles. But you won't simply be driving around aimlessly! Your mission is to build up your company by transporting goods across the country, including timber, ore, coal, cattle, gold and other various freight items for a broad variety of industries. Earn money for every successful shipment and invest in new vehicles or upgrade and customize your existing locomotives. Plus: build stations, yards, and other infrastructure along your routes to service your trains with fuel, water, and sand. You can also build up a wide variety of iconic buildings and objects to create a beautiful surrounding for your railroad network.
**Experience the Railroad Sandbox with up to 16 players**
Enjoy a realistic railroad experience with the advanced Unreal Engine physics system for deep railroad simulation. All collisions and forces are rendered dynamically in real time, making the train driving experience much more immersive. So, be careful about derailing your train! And to top it all off, you can play Railroads Online with up to 15 players on a server and enjoy the ultimate train simulation in multiplayer sessions with your friends. Lay tracks together and cooperate to move trains seamlessly or share the work while you play independently. It’s also possible to save and load your progress, so you can enjoy the best tracks or most creative layouts again and again.
If you like trains, start your journey today!
*   Open World Sandbox for you to explore
*   Online multiplayer sessions with up to 16 players
*   Manage your own company
*   4 different maps
*   Extremely detailed locomotives and other equipment
*   Drive your customized steam engines
*   Interact with regulators, valves, brakes, and appliances
*   Build stations, yards, and other infrastructure to service your trains
*   Build tracks, switches, and railroad facilities
*   Transport goods and earn money
*   Unreal 5 Engine for great visual quality
*   Enjoy a realistic railroad physics system

Release date: Dec 5, 2024

Categories: Sandbox Creation, Multiplayer, Simulation, Transportation Simulation, Cooperative Multiplayer, Open-World Exploration, Economic Simulation, Logistics Management

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 85; verdict: Predatory; summary: The game is perceived as a cash grab with overpriced DLC and a focus on monetization over quality improvements. Many users feel that the game is not worth its asking price and that the developers are prioritizing paid content over fixing existing issues.
- Steam Deck: score 75; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The analysis of user feedback reveals significant issues with the control scheme, stability, and the need for an offline mode. The control scheme is reported as non-intuitive and problematic, particularly in building and operating trains. Stability issues such as save data loss and sudden crashes are critical and severely impact the user experience. Additionally, the lack of an offline mode is a notable concern for users with unreliable internet connections.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $10.00 - $25.00
  - Reasoning: The evidence shows that users consistently mention the game is not worth more than $25, with several reviews suggesting a fair price range between $10 and $25. Many users indicate that the game is only worth purchasing when discounted, and several reviews explicitly state that the game should not be bought at full price. The general sentiment is that the game is overpriced for its current state and content.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 200.0h
  - Story completion: N/A
  - Session length: 2.0h
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: The evidence provides several data points on playtime hours. The first quote indicates that a player spent 30 hours and still had significant progress to make, suggesting that game completion is likely much longer. The second and third quotes mention 140 and 240.7 hours respectively, indicating extensive playtime but not necessarily full game completion. The fourth quote mentions almost 1400 hours, which is an outlier and likely not typical for most players. Given these data points, we can infer typical playtime metrics.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game becomes enjoyable primarily in multiplayer mode, especially when hosting or playing with friends, despite significant bugs and performance issues.
  - Stance: Fun then drops
  - Anchor: Playing as the host in multiplayer
  - Time to anchor: 0h 30m
  - Friction: Multiplayer bugs; Performance issues; Rubber-banding; Steep learning curve
  - Unlock drivers: Playing as the host; Engaging with friends
  - Conditions: Playing with friends; Adjusting to game quirks; Hosting multiplayer sessions
- Player Archetypes:
  - Frustrated Community Advocate (no buy)
    - Motivation: Improvement of the game's multiplayer experience.
    - Playstyle: Community engagement and critical feedback.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: no buy
    - Labels: Railroads Online community; hardcore train community
    - Reference games: Railroader; Century of Steam
  - Casual Social Player (sale)
    - Motivation: Relaxation and social interaction.
    - Playstyle: Casual and social gameplay.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: party game; chill out
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Creative Builder (deep sale)
    - Motivation: Creative freedom and potential for future improvements.
    - Playstyle: Creative building and management.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: deep sale
    - Labels: railroad sandbox; digital model layout
    - Reference games: N/A


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Enjoyable gameplay experience (weight 0.5): Many players find the game fun and enjoyable, especially when playing with friends. The core gameplay mechanics, including physics and driving trains, are highlighted as particularly satisfying.
- High-quality visuals and sound (weight 0.28): The game features great graphics and sound effects, with beautiful scenery and well-modeled trains. The visual and auditory elements contribute significantly to the overall enjoyment.
- Freedom to build and create (weight 0.27): Players appreciate the freedom to lay their own tracks and build their railway networks. This creative aspect is a major draw for many players.
- Worth the purchase (weight 0.19): Many players feel that the game is worth the money spent, offering hours of enjoyment and a satisfying experience for train enthusiasts.
- Initial enjoyment and potential (weight 0.18): Players often loved the game initially and see great potential in it. The game's concept and early experiences are highly praised.
- Multiplayer functionality (weight 0.16): The game offers multiplayer interactions, which enhance the enjoyment for many players. Playing with friends is a significant bonus.
- Realistic and detailed elements (weight 0.15): The game is noted for its realistic trains and detailed locomotive controls. The attention to detail in the modeling and mechanics is appreciated by players.
- Unique and creative gameplay (weight 0.1): The game provides a unique blend of gameplay mechanics, offering a creative and engaging experience that stands out.
- Positive community and updates (weight 0.09): The game benefits from active community engagement and frequent updates, which include bug fixes and new additions.
- Large open-world maps (weight 0.05): The game features large, open-world maps that provide a vast area for players to explore and build their railways.

Common complaints:
- Lack of updates and support (weight 0.32): The game has seen no significant updates or bug fixes for over a year, leading players to believe it has been abandoned by the developers.
- Lacks realism and substance (weight 0.3): Players feel the game lacks realism and is unfinished, with clunky controls and a lack of historically accurate or realistic modes.
- Multiplayer plagued by bugs (weight 0.29): The multiplayer mode is frequently described as extremely buggy, unplayable, and a mess, with numerous reports of crashes and limitations.
- Game feels unfinished and rushed (weight 0.22): Many players describe the game as feeling unfinished, rushed, and in need of more development and polishing.
- Track laying system issues (weight 0.21): The track laying system is described as clunky, overly complicated, and frustrating, making it difficult and time-consuming to build tracks.
- Frequent train derailments (weight 0.2): Players report that trains derail randomly and frequently, often without clear reasons, causing frustration and disrupting gameplay.
- Missing features and content (weight 0.16): Players report that the game is missing several key features, such as tunnels, passenger service, and the ability to sell wagons or locomotives.
- Lack of guidance and tutorials (weight 0.12): There is very little in-game guidance or tutorials, making it difficult for new players to get started and understand the game mechanics.
- Clunky and unintuitive UI (weight 0.1): The user interface is described as basic, clunky, ugly, and unintuitive, making the game harder to navigate and enjoy.
- Physics engine issues (weight 0.07): The physics engine is described as janky and wonky, causing unrealistic behavior and disrupting gameplay.
- Developer communication issues (weight 0.07): There is a lack of communication from the developers, who are not responsive to community feedback or concerns.

Gameplay feedback:
- Building and managing rail networks (weight 0.31): A significant aspect of the game involves building and managing custom railroads, including laying tracks and planning routes.
- Locomotive controls and mechanics (weight 0.22): Players frequently mention the controls and mechanics related to driving and managing locomotives, including steam locomotive operation and locomotive-specific issues.
- Multiplayer and single-player modes (weight 0.17): The game offers both multiplayer and single-player modes, with players highlighting the multiplayer mechanics and interactions.
- Loading and delivering goods (weight 0.13): The game includes mechanics for loading and unloading wagons, delivering goods, and selling materials like lumber and old locomotives.
- Train physics and mechanics (weight 0.11): Players appreciate the physics-based train simulation, including derailment and re-railing mechanics, as well as the technical wear and tear on locomotives.
- Industry and town building (weight 0.07): Players can build and manage industries and towns, adding a layer of customization and management to the gameplay.
- First-person and third-person views (weight 0.06): The game offers both first-person and third-person perspectives for driving and managing trains, providing different gameplay experiences.
- Customization options (weight 0.05): Players can customize various aspects of the game, including engines and rail networks, adding depth to the gameplay.
- Save and load system (weight 0.05): The game includes a save and load system for game progress, though some players mention issues with this feature.
- Challenging map and terrain (weight 0.05): The game features a challenging map with various terrain obstacles that players must navigate.
- Industry chains and interactions (weight 0.05): The game features industry chains and interactions, allowing players to connect and manage different industries.

Performance notes:
- Performance and lag issues (weight 0.21): Many players report bad performance, unplayable lag, and general performance issues. These problems are widespread and significantly impact the gameplay experience.
- Frequent bugs and glitches (weight 0.19): The game is plagued with numerous bugs, glitches, and technical issues. Players frequently encounter crashes, fatal errors, and various other bugs that hinder the gaming experience.
- Game crashing problems (weight 0.19): Players experience frequent crashes, including hard crashes with fatal errors. These crashes occur in various situations, such as entering menus or during general gameplay.
- Graphics and optimization issues (weight 0.13): The game has several graphics-related problems, including blurry graphics, high VRAM usage, and poor optimization. These issues affect the visual quality and performance of the game.
- Loading and compatibility issues (weight 0.12): Players report tedious loading screens and various compatibility issues, such as problems with DirectX 12 and GPU compatibility. These issues can prevent the game from running properly on some systems.
- Specific gameplay bugs (weight 0.1): There are specific bugs related to gameplay mechanics, such as rubber banding, ghost brakes, and issues with locomotives and tracks. These bugs can significantly impact the gameplay experience.
- System requirements and performance (weight 0.08): Some players report misleading system requirements and performance issues on both low-end and high-end hardware. This suggests that the game may not be well-optimized for a range of systems.
- Early access and general improvements (weight 0.05): As an early access game, players note that there are many bugs and issues that need to be addressed. General improvements are needed to enhance the overall gaming experience.

Recommendations:
- Consider alternative train simulation games (weight 0.2): Many players suggest looking into other games like 'Railroader' or 'Derail Valley' for better depth, progression, and simulation accuracy. These alternatives are often recommended for those who enjoy managing their own railroad or driving locomotives realistically.
- Wait for 'Century of Steam' (weight 0.15): Several reviews advise waiting for the release of 'Century of Steam,' which is anticipated to offer promising steam simulation and multiplayer features. This game is seen as a potentially better investment for train enthusiasts.
- Not recommended due to development issues (weight 0.1): Many players do not recommend the game due to ongoing development issues, performance problems, and lack of bug fixes or new content. These issues significantly impact the gameplay experience.
- Positive recommendations (weight 0.1): Some players highly recommend the game, finding it worth the investment despite its issues. It is particularly enjoyed by those who appreciate creative building and multiplayer economy.
- Recommended for train enthusiasts (weight 0.09): The game is highly recommended for dedicated train fans and railroad enthusiasts. It is suggested for those who enjoy driving trains or playing with friends for a few hours.
- Only buy on sale (weight 0.09): Several reviews suggest that the game is only worth purchasing at a discounted price. Players feel that the current price does not reflect the game's value, especially given its issues and lack of updates.
- Not recommended for full price (weight 0.08): Many players advise against buying the game at full price due to its current state and issues. It is suggested to wait for updates or consider other games.
- Mixed reviews on value (weight 0.05): There are mixed opinions on the game's value. Some players find it worth the money if they can handle its issues and have a good PC, while others suggest looking into other train/industry games or waiting for a heavy sale.
- Specific improvements needed (weight 0.04): Players suggest that the game could be significantly improved with features like cities to take goods and see growth, as well as better automation for single-player mode. Fixing multiplayer crashing is also highlighted as a necessity.

Other player notes:
- Tips for getting started (weight 0.02): There are tips available for players who are just starting out with the game.
- Japanese guide created (weight 0.02): A Japanese guide has been created, which could be helpful for Japanese-speaking players.
- Uses the game to heat up the table (weight 0.02): Some players have mentioned using the game in unconventional ways, such as using it to heat up a table.

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.36): Players are frustrated primarily due to persistent bugs, frequent game crashes, and a lack of updates from the developers. The game's mechanics, particularly track building and derailments, are cited as clunky and unrealistic, adding to the frustration. Multiplayer issues, poor performance, and the feeling of the game being abandoned further exacerbate these feelings.
- Disappointment (weight 0.28): Disappointment stems from the game's unfinished state and lack of updates, with many feeling the game was abandoned by the developers. Players also express disappointment with the game's overall quality, including poor graphics, building mechanics, and multiplayer issues. The game's potential not being realized and the lack of developer communication add to this sentiment.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.08): Enjoyment comes from the fun interactions and the overall positive experience of driving trains and building railways. Players appreciate the game's physics, realism, and the variety of engines and scenery. The game is seen as fun and rewarding, with many enjoying the track laying and gameplay experience.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.07): Satisfaction is derived from the ability to create and manage one's own railway, along with the game's realism and customization options. Players find the game enjoyable despite its flaws and appreciate the sandbox gameplay. Building and driving trains, as well as the game's improvements and community engagement, contribute to this satisfaction.
- Joy (weight 0.04): Joy is primarily experienced when playing with friends, building tracks, and driving trains together. The historical trains, graphics, and the overall fun gameplay contribute to this emotion. Players find the game fun and enjoyable once they overcome the learning curve.
- Hope (weight 0.03): Hope is centered around the anticipation of potential updates and future improvements. Players hope that developers will fix issues and add new features, such as a sandbox mode. The expectation of future features and improvements keeps this hope alive.
- Anger (weight 0.03): Anger is caused by game crashing, perceived developer abandonment, and the threat of lawsuits for modding. Players feel their money is wasted due to the game's poor quality and lack of communication from developers. Unrealistic gameplay mechanics and developer actions further fuel this anger.
- Excitement (weight 0.02): Excitement comes from the unique gameplay experience and the enjoyment of building and industry mechanics. Players are excited about the game's potential and consistent updates, as well as the anticipation of future updates. The blend of train simulation and online multiplayer strategy adds to this excitement.
- Boredom (weight 0.02): Boredom sets in due to playing alone and the stale aspects of the game, which becomes boring quickly. The unchanged gameplay loop since release and the gameplay mechanics contribute to this feeling of boredom.
- Concern (weight 0.01): Concern is primarily about the game's future, including potential bugs and the lack of updates. Players are worried about finishing the world too quickly and the possibility of game abandonment.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.01): Nostalgia is evoked by memories of having fun in early beta and childhood memories related to train sets. Players who used to love the game and reminisce about childhood train sets experience this emotion.
- Mixed feelings (weight 0.01): Mixed feelings arise from the game's potential versus its current state and pricing. Players enjoy the gameplay but are troubled by issues and abandonment. The game's visuals and gameplay are appreciated, but online issues cause concern.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.01): Enthusiasm is driven by the positive experience with the game and its features. Players are enthusiastic about the game's unique aspects and the overall enjoyment it provides.
- Frustrated (weight 0.01): Frustration is caused by tutorial issues, bugs, and game control problems. The lack of a third-person option for track laying and track building issues add to this frustration.
- Hopeful (weight 0.01): Hopefulness is centered around future additions and the community workshop. Players were hopeful for the game's future and the potential improvements it could bring.
- Love (weight 0.01): Love for the game is expressed through the overall enjoyment and positive experiences it provides. Players love the game for its unique features and the fun they have while playing.
- Relaxation (weight 0.01): Relaxation is experienced through the game's calm and chill gameplay. Players find the game to be a very relaxing and peaceful experience.
- Happiness (weight 0): Happiness is derived from the game being available again and the joy it brings. Players are happy to have the game back and enjoy playing it.
- Calmness (weight 0): Calmness is experienced through the gameplay, which is seen as relaxing and chill. Players find the game to be a very calm and enjoyable experience.}