This update removes emails from the game and replaces them with the (similar, but different) concept of contracts. For this update we are experimenting with making a short video of us playing through and discussing the changes for those who are interested
[previewyoutube=AyUBIn83E50;full][/previewyoutube]
We've spelt out the reasons for this in detail in a blogpost, but the core problem was that the email system had led the scenarios in a more linear direction than we had hoped for. We want the game to present you with a range of possible, and optional, goals you can opt in and out of. Giving a player this choice frees us from keeping the difficulty down in all tasks. Even the humble Forgotten Valley scenario now has some challenging contracts.
We've also nipped and tucked the desert scenario to incorporate your feedback, added a warning when trains are locked up, and stopped trains from loading and unloading carriages that are not on a platform. We've also fixed some issues:
Text no longer spills off the end of the email (now contracts) window
Scroll in the email column is fixed
Inconsistent escape handling should be more consistent now
Nonstop zones that touch only at corners no longer act as one
The desert factory shows a clearer warning when it pauses production
Our next project is getting the mobile version ready to test. Volunteer in our Discord if you are keen to try it!
Build train networks to connect people to the towns and places they need to go to. Turn remote wilderness into a thriving metropolis brimming with colour and life as you set up routes to link tourists to resorts, grapes to wineries, and aspiring sleuths to detectiving conventions, among others. See the fruits of your efforts reflected in your burgeoning bank balance while making sure your reputation stays intact.
Iron Roads is a game where you set up train networks connecting your towns and industries. Build infrastructure, buy trains, and fine-tune their routes and timetables to optimise your network. But don't get complacent! As you progress, further towns, industries, events, opportunities, and natural disasters may come your way and threaten to upheave the little train utopia you've just built.
A whimsical top down 2D indie offering for players looking for a streamlined interface and a touch of offbeat humour.