Railway Empire (2018)

Game Description:
In Railway Empire, set in the 19th-century United States, players build a vast rail network, purchasing over 40 meticulously detailed trains. The game challenges you to strategically buy or construct railway stations, maintenance buildings, factories, and tourist attractions to outpace competitors. Efficiently managing your workforce is crucial to maintaining a seamless train service. As you progress through five eras of technological innovation, you can develop over 300 technologies, enhancing everything from mechanical train improvements to workplace infrastructure and advanced amenities. Compete against rivals in a dynamic economic environment, using espionage and sabotage to gain an edge. Experience the thrill of expanding your empire across a richly detailed and historically inspired landscape.
Game Details
Platforms:
PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Genres:
Simulator, Strategy
Game Mode(s):
Player Perspective(s):
Developer:
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Publisher:
ESRB Age Rating Summary:
Railway Empire is rated E for Everyone by the ESRB with Alcohol Reference, Mild Language, Use of Tobacco, and Violent References. This is a strategy/simulation game in which players run a railroad empire. Players build stations, create routes, and manage various aspects of the business (e.g., buildings, workforce). In some cities, players build a brewery, which is accompanied by a symbol of a frothy beer mug; references to alcohol also appear in text (e.g., “…toasted with beer and whiskey.”) A handful of characters are depicted smoking cigars/cigarettes. Along the way, players can use a menu system to hire bandits and spies to sabotage and/or rob passengers of rival companies. The word “damn” appears in the dialogue.
Content Warnings:
Alcohol Reference, Mild Language, Use of Tobacco, Violent References
Interactive Elements:
In-Game Purchases:
Parental Notes
The sentiment among parents is very positive about Railway Empire. The game contains mild language, with the word “damn” appearing infrequently in dialogue. Violence is minimal and mostly implied through strategic elements like hiring bandits and spies to sabotage rivals, which is presented in a non-graphic, comical manner. Some mature themes are present, such as alcohol and tobacco use, depicted through symbols and text references, but these are not central to gameplay. Parents generally find the game suitable for children, appreciating its educational aspects and historical context, though they suggest it may be best for kids who can understand and manage its strategic elements.
Positive Notes About The Game From ParentsParents appreciate Railway Empire for its educational benefits, noting that it promotes strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. The game’s historical setting provides a rich context for learning about the 19th-century United States and the development of the railway system. Its calm pacing and focus on management and planning are seen as positive aspects that encourage thoughtful decision-making and creativity.
Why Your Kid Might Like Railway Empire
Railway Empire offers a unique blend of strategy and history that appeals to teens who enjoy building and management games. The challenge of constructing a vast rail network and managing resources keeps players engaged for hours. The game’s detailed trains and historical setting provide an immersive experience, allowing players to feel like they are part of the 19th-century industrial revolution. The strategic elements, such as buying and constructing railway stations and managing a workforce, offer a satisfying sense of accomplishment as players expand their empire.
Teens appreciate the competitive aspect of Railway Empire, where they can outsmart rivals using espionage and sabotage. The dynamic economic environment requires players to think critically and adapt their strategies, which adds depth to the gameplay. The progression through five eras of technological innovation keeps the game fresh and exciting, as players unlock new technologies and improve their rail systems. Overall, Railway Empire is a well-received game that combines strategy, history, and competition, making it a favorite among teens who enjoy these elements.