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A-Train

From Alfawiki
A-Train
IndustryVideo games
FoundedDecember 1985; 40 years ago (1985-12)
FounderArtdink
ProductsA-Train series
Websitewww.artdink.co.jp

A-Train

The inaugural A-Train title debuted in December 1985, available on systems such as the FM-7, NEC PC-8801, PC-9801, Sharp X1 Turbo, MZ-2500, Famicom, and MSX2. A version adapted for Windows was later released in April 2000.

A-Train II

This sequel arrived in July 1988 for the NEC PC-9801 and X68000 platforms and was marketed under the name Railroad Empire within the United States.

A-Train III

Known as Take the A-Train III domestically and simply A-Train internationally, this third installment was developed by Artdink and published by Maxis in the US. Initially launched in December 1990 for NEC PC-9801, FM Towns Marty, X68000, and PC Engine, it expanded to US DOS and Amiga systems by October 1992. A reissue compatible with Windows 95/98 followed in March 2000.

In this simulation, players oversee a railway enterprise without competing companies, concentrating on transporting passengers or construction materials to drive urban expansion. The game introduced near-isometric dimetric projection visuals, which influenced Maxis's SimCity 2000. Players can also develop facilities such as ski resorts and hotels to increase revenue streams.

The accompanying A-Train Construction Set editor enabled map customization and was included with the main game release in Europe.

Critics acknowledged its complexity despite a challenging learning curve. It received a Codie award for Best Strategy Program in 1993 and ranked among the top computer games according to PC Gamer UK.

MD A-Train

This Japan-exclusive title centers on railroad construction aimed at improving city transportation. Players lay tracks connecting various map points and coordinate train timetables to maximize profits and promote urban growth across five scenarios of increasing difficulty.

A-Train IV

Launched in December 1993 for platforms including NEC PC-9801, FM Towns Marty, Windows 3.1x, and Windows 95; it was later reissued as A-Train 4 15th Anniversary (2000) and A-Train 4 XP (2004), broadening OS compatibility. Console editions include AIV: Evolution for PlayStation (Japan-only), its international counterpart AIV: Evolution Global, and AIV Network$ (released as C.E.O. in North America) for MS-DOS and Windows.

The PlayStation iteration received mixed feedback: it was commended for its engaging simulation mechanics but criticized for lacking the appeal found in other Maxis titles. This version was promoted alongside an "Evolution Pack" containing hardware peripherals.

A-Train 5

Released in December 1996 on Windows 95 featuring PowerVR-enhanced 3D graphics, it subsequently incorporated DirectX/Direct3D support and launched on the PlayStation console. The PlayStation edition was later re-released for PSP and PS3 platforms.

A-Train Z

This reinterpretation of the original game appeared in May 1999 on PlayStation exclusively in Japan, utilizing the A5 series’ 3D engine. An anime-styled PSP adaptation followed in June 2006.

A-Train 6

Released as a launch title for PlayStation 2 in Japan during March 2000, this version sold over one million copies domestically. Its European release occurred in 2004, featuring enhanced visuals and fully realized 3D gameplay across six distinct regions with unique objectives. Additional features include a train viewer and replay mode with unlocked locomotives. Players start with ¥10 billion capital; bankruptcy results if funds drop below zero. The game offers a roster of 38 trains spanning commuter, suburban, express, and freight categories.

A-Train 2001

Debuting in May 2001 exclusively for the Japanese PlayStation 2 market, this installment served as an enhanced version of A-Train 6. It introduced the capability to install content onto hard drives and incorporated human character models.

A-Train The 21st Century

Launched in June 2003 for Windows in Japan, this title functioned primarily as a PC adaptation of A-Train 2001.

A-Train i

This mobile city planning simulation was distributed by Hudson Soft for DoCoMo devices; the service was discontinued in March 2012.

A-Train 7

Celebrating the franchise's 20th year, this version was released in June 2005 for Windows platforms (2000/XP/Vista). It brought back the urban development gameplay that had been missing since A-Train 5. Multiple expansion packs were subsequently made available.

A-Train EZ

Released in January 2006 on the BREW platform, this mobile title was distributed by Hudson Soft through au by KDDI, continuing the series’ tradition of service planning gameplay.

A-Train HX

Arriving in December 2006 for Xbox 360 in both Japan and Europe, this marked Artdink’s first self-published A-Train game on the console. It featured high-definition visuals at 720p, Xbox Live functionality for sharing maps and leaderboards, and a built-in map editor. Players could access over 150 real-world Japanese train models via Xbox Live Marketplace alongside default options. Despite these features, it received generally unfavorable reviews due to its intricate mechanics and niche appeal.

A-Train 8

This Windows edition launched in Japan in March 2008, followed by a European release; a global Steam version became available in September 2013.

A-Train DS

Released in April 2009 for the Nintendo DS in Japan, this iteration utilized touch screen controls and introduced a handheld experience with a three-dimensional train perspective.

A-Train 9

Initially released in Japan in February 2010 and later worldwide in March 2012 under the titles The Train Giant and Der Bahn Gigant (German edition), this game supports Windows XP through Windows 10 (including x64 systems). Two exclusive Japanese building kits were issued later in 2010, along with an optional paid 3D patch compatible with stereoscopic glasses. The German version featured an unofficial patch that expanded the train roster from eleven to over two hundred models. The game incorporates buses, trucks, power plants, traditional Japanese castles, and authentic architecture, emphasizing city expansion and financial strategy.

Significant updates include:

  • Version 2.0 Professional Edition (December 2012): consolidated expansions with new additions.
  • Version 3.0 Railway Simulator (June/October 2014): worldwide Steam release featuring fewer licensed trains.
  • Version 4.0 Japan Rail Simulator (October 2015) on Steam.
  • Version 5.0 Final (September 2018): compatibility with contemporary Windows operating systems.
  • Version V5.0 Ultimate Edition English release (November 2024): supports Windows10/11 x64.

An expansion named TRAIN CONSTRUCTION, which allows players to create custom trains, also launched on Steam in November 2024.

A-Train 3D

Originally slated for a 2011 release, this title eventually launched in February 2014 in Japan and April 2015 internationally as A-Train 3D: City Simulator on Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS. Pre-orders included the official soundtrack.

A-Train PC Classic

Derived from A-Train 3D, this version was released on Steam Japan in December 2016; its English localization followed in June 2017.

A-Train Express

This PlayStation 4 adaptation of A-Train9 featured PlayStation VR support and was released in December 2017 within Japan. An ESRB rating appeared early in 2019, suggesting plans for Western distribution. Limited Run Games issued a physical edition in May 2019.

A-Train All Aboard! Tourism

The global launch of the Nintendo Switch version occurred on March 12, 2021, developed by Artdink, marking the newest installment aimed at console audiences following its earlier handheld releases. The game was first revealed through Artdink's Twitter account in February 2020, featuring character artwork by Yuji Himukai, renowned for his work on the Etrian Odyssey series. Upon release, it offered language options including Japanese, English, Traditional and Simplified Chinese, as well as Korean. The title was distributed simultaneously in physical and digital formats throughout Asia-Pacific territories, while only digital versions were available in other regions. Subsequently, the game was adapted for PC via Steam, accompanied by an expansion pack named "Vistas Abound," which debuted in Japan.

External links

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