Best PC train games

Why are train simulators so good?

As you can imagine, train simulators go beyond operating the machine: after all, the transport needs a route that will allow it to reach its destination without a problem. Now, imagine that you have to manage dozens of these simultaneously. That’s when it gets interesting.

Your railway empire has to be managed well, and there’s a lot of planning to do. Keep in mind that this is still a business; therefore, you need to be able to make a profit on it; then, you can proceed to buy new machines and engines, repair the ones you already have, or expand your railway network tremendously. 

There are a lot of background activities that you see in the train sim genre that you wouldn’t usually care about – which doesn’t change the fact that they exist and have to be done by someone. We can’t begin to imagine how stressful it is in real life, which is why we have video games to present us with a much less stressful and punishing experience. Sure, you can fail miserably, but it doesn’t even compare to losing your actual finances and assets. Here, you can just start over.

To understand the appeal of these types of games, one must like the topic in question or enjoy its management aspect. You will probably dislike most railway video games you stumble upon without having both. Nonetheless, the genre is fascinating, and maybe the appreciation for it will appear after you’ve tried a title or two. Give it a shot anyway!

Best train games

We have talked about the genre's appeal, but it’s always better to show it with a great example. Some of the titles here feature other gameplay gimmicks than just the one we’re talking about: it may be a project on a much bigger scale! It depends on what you want from the game: should it only focus on the railway aspect, or should it show you the more tycoon approach, allowing you to manage a whole city?

Still, if you’re looking for some of the best PC train games, you could begin with Railway Empire. In this relatively recent title, you are the head of your own train business, and you need to hire employees, ranging from personnel helping the passengers and stationmasters to engine drivers. 

The other thing you need to do is maintain the appeal of your railway company: either by purchasing new trains (there are over 40 to buy!), expanding the structure with buildings and factories, or by providing tourist attractions to the train connoisseurs. It’s not easy to run a railway business here, but it’s an extremely satisfying feeling to see it all working the way it should.

From other best PC train simulators that are worth beginning your train adventure with, Train Sim World 2 is an excellent choice. It’s more straightforward and accessible to casual players, which is good for beginners. You shouldn’t really start with, say, Train Simulator 2022 as the game is far too complicated and should be played by those who would like to experience a full-fledged, unforgiving simulation. The one we recommend isn’t that demanding and serves as a solid introduction to the genre. 

You can focus on the engine driver’s work, paying close attention to the weather, and you need to control all sorts of HUD displays, including brake controls or accelerometers. It’s practically an engine driver simulator – if you’ve been fascinated mostly by being the one who leads a train to its destination, it’s a game for you!

The train simulator genre is extensive, as you may have deduced from the picks we provided you for starters. After a while, you may also check out games such as Train Fever or the Railroad Tycoon series. Both of these franchises add a lot to the gameplay compared to the previous recommendations. Whenever you feel ready, give them a go. 

At first, they may be quite overwhelming, but it’s all a matter of time. You will soon realize that you’d prefer to have something else to do than just sitting in your engine driver's cabin all the time. You can always find something else for yourself here on GG.deals if these aren’t to your liking. As we said, the train sim genre is surprisingly broad; we’re sure you will stumble upon something. Good luck with your train empires!