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A-Train: Trains, Power, Money

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Although trains are your primary source of income in the beginning of the game, A-Train is not about building trains exclusively. By utilizing the train industry as well as buses and subways, it is up to you to manage an efficient transportation system for passengers and freighting companies. Eve...

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Developer
ArtDink

Released on
1995

Size
1 Player

Version
PlayStation

Requirements
Sony Playstation

Downloads
Strategy

Publisher
Sony Computer Entertainment Europe

ESRB Rating
E - Everyone

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Description

Although trains are your primary source of income in the beginning of the game, A-Train is not about building trains exclusively. By utilizing the train industry as well as buses and subways, it is up to you to manage an efficient transportation system for passengers and freighting companies. Everything you do must be well thought out because you’re out to make a profit.

As soon as you’ve earned the adequate funds, you have to start making investments. With your money you can buy and sell all types of land and businesses. If you think you’re lucky enough, you may opt to play the stock market. Purchased land can be developed in a variety of ways, such as in the development of offices, apartments, hotels, factories, golf courses, and so on. It is up to you to build the largest financial empire humanly possible.

As the city develops, new businesses will spring up, such as stadiums, high rise office blocks, and ski resorts. You can also build your own businesses, the success of which will depend on the local population, the presence of competing businesses, and even the changes of the seasons, among other factors.

A-Train: Trains, Power, Money

Overview & History

Released as an intriguing entry within Artdink's legendary simulation lineage, A-Train: Trains, Power, Money shifts the traditional corporate-planning focus into a fast-paced, arcade-leaning environment. Unlike its notoriously slow, spreadsheet-heavy PC predecessors, this version condenses the complex economic ecosystem of urban development, rail logistics, and electrical grids into an accessible yet deeply strategic challenge. Originally brought to western audiences during the 16-bit golden era, the arcade adaptation trades leisurely weekend-planning sessions for strict time-limit quotas and relentless financial milestones, tasks that force players to master the delicate intersection of mass transit and municipal growth.

Gameplay Features & Mechanics

Players step into the shoes of a ruthless yet visionary transit tycoon tasked with transforming barren map grids into bustling, self-sustaining metropolises. Success hinges on laying down intricate networks of railroad tracks, purchasing locomotives, and scheduling freight and passenger lines. However, trains cannot run on enthusiasm alone; you must construct and manage power plants to supply electricity to surrounding residential, commercial, and industrial zones. The core gameplay loop revolves around market manipulation—boosting real estate values near your stations, buying low, and selling high to fund even larger infrastructure projects. Fail to balance your power grid or let your trains run at a deficit, and the board of directors will swiftly issue a game over.

Keyboard Controls

Arrow Keys / D-Pad: Navigate the grid, select menu items, and pan across the city map
Action Keys: Place tracks, construct buildings, and confirm financial transactions
Enter: Start the simulation clock / Access the pause menu