Metro Simulator 2 is the latest in a long line of train sim titles. However, unlike its bigger peers, this experience is more oppressive, dated, and complex. Furthermore, there is a large stream of instruments to handle and switches to flick. Accordingly, this may not be the best game if you are new to the genre.
This realistic simulation title was developed by KishMish Games and published by Ultimate Games. Moreover, it is a single-player title and it has 2 game modes. The action focuses on scenario-based settings. However, you can free roam across the vast network of tracks if you so wish. I spent my time enjoying the scenarios as the action felt more rigid and rewarding. Yet, I can see why the free-roam mode will attract streamers and gamers who love to role-play.
Metro Simulator 2: a Russian driver’s dream.
Can you remember your teacher telling you that you’d never make money by staring out a window? Well, the jokes on them as you undertake the job of a Russian Metro driver. Sadly, the views aren’t picturesque, and the hours are appalling. However, as long as you know how to operate 1 or 2 trains, you’ll do just fine.
Metro Simulator 2 demands that you take control of 2 Russian Metro trains. These unnecessarily complex hunks of metal take some getting used to. Consequently, you’ll have to pay attention if you wish to make the most of this title. Each route tests your concentration, reactions, and cognitive function. As such, though it is relaxing, you must stay alert throughout.
Mundane action.
The gameplay focuses on the day-to-day tasks of a train driver. Subsequently, this is a low-frills and often mundane endeavour. Yet, occasionally you are asked to solve an emergency! These tasks are welcome as they break up the repetitive nature of the gameplay loop.
Each run asks you to set up your cab, check your schedule card, and activate the auto announcer. Furthermore, you must maintain the correct speed, address the vigilance, open and close the doors, and arrive on time. Alongside this, there are passengers to pick up, point work to switch, and the occasional shunt to undertake. Accordingly, this will appease every train enthusiast going.
As you trundle along the track, your progress is scored. Any exceptional experiences reward you with positive points. Yet, if you are late, speed, or you fail to acknowledge the vigilance, your score plummets. I admit, I paid little attention to this aspect, as I didn’t care. However, if you wish to prove your worth, you may be more concerned by the scoring system.
Metro Simulator 2 looks dated.
I’ve never been to Russia, nor have I studied its Metro system. However, I am assured that this is an accurate representation of its rail network. If this is the case, I must applaud the developers for their realistic approach and methodical eye for detail. Yet, this praise cannot be extended to the overall finish. Sadly, the textures aren’t great, and the game is full of bugs. Changing ends of a train was thwarted with danger as I fell through the tracks and to my death repeatedly. Additionally, the character models are plain, repetitive, and laughable.
Thankfully, Metro Simulator 2 does a better job with its audio. The train sounds are accurate, and I loved the noise of profiling wheels and in-cab alarms. Moreover, the auto announcements are confusing but interesting to listen to. The Russian dialect adds to the realism even though it is problematic for an English speaker.
Rough controls.
The control system isn’t perfect. Sadly, there are so many switches, levers, and buttons to operate that things get confusing. Moreover, the inputs weren’t responsive and this made matters worse. If you then chuck in the bugs and other problems, this takes some getting used to. Thankfully, though, there is a detailed tutorial for each train and this does mitigate many of the issues I faced.
Metro Simulator 2 isn’t a title for inexperienced train sim gamers. As such, I believe this will attract a niche audience. Yet, if you fall for its grey and oppressive charms, there is plenty to see and do. I would have liked more trains and a larger list of objectives. However, despite these shortcomings, there is still replay value and longevity.
Metro Simulator 2 takes you on a dull journey.
Driving a Metro train in an oppressive country will test your patience. Yet, there is something oddly rewarding when you get things right. Yes, this game has its issues, but it is relaxing, challenging, and ideal for train enthusiasts. Consequently, though I have my complaints, I recommend buying it here! Can you master the Russian Metro? Jump in your cab, plan your route, and get to work.
