Complex 2D train management sim Iron Roads hits Early Access in January 2025

With a Demo and Steam Playtest available, Iron Roads from Cowleyfornia Studios is a top-down 2D train management game that's going to enter Early Access next year. Cowleyfornia Studios mentioned the EA date is now set for January 20th.

Check out the latest trailer:

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More about it:

Iron Roads is a top-down 2D train management game for Desktop and Mobile with a focus on optimising train networks. Its minimalistic interface is easy to learn, but encourages deep and sophisticated gameplay. We’re aiming for the accessibility of Mini Metro and the depth of simulations such as OpenTTD, while also capturing the irreverent tone of games like Theme Hospital.

In addition to more established train management mechanics, Iron Roads explores themes surrounding sustainable development. Rather than encouraging unconstrained construction, the game reacts to the player’s actions.

Some of the features already in include:

• Setting up fast transport networks that will get erudite animal passengers to their destination on time
• Efficient transport of goods in complex production chains.
• A minimalistic interface that is easy to learn, but that allows for many happy hours optimising and building networks.
• Music in Iron Roads is a combination of notes generated from trains and passengers, and authored melodies. The music generated is as unique as the layouts built by players.
• Contracts: Scenarios come with a grant system where players can follow focussed goals to earn extra money and get the satisfaction of ticking off a to-do list.
• Performance graphs: the main goal of Iron Roads is to optimise the train networks, so charts are available to analyse data relating to finances and passengers.

With a plan to add mod support, multiplayer, weather events and more.

The developers mentioned to me that not only does it have Native Linux support, but it's also mostly developed on Linux. Eventually they will also be adding in full controller support so it will be a better experience on Steam Deck then too.