Unrailed is a fun multiplayer game that tasks players with getting a train from point A to point B. Players will need to work together with up to four friends to take on this arduous task that isn’t easy. This game will test friendships, but when the train makes it to the goal, everyone will be thrilled. While Unrailed might not seem too challenging initially, it shows off its true colors as the train speeds off down the track. Players will start first by selecting a character. These character choices don’t have stats; it just offers a cosmetic difference. Players will then choose between local or online play. The game offers a few different modes in quick mode, endless, sandbox, and versus. Quick is the best way to get one’s feet wet with this game. Endless mode, of course, lasts until the train crashes, sandbox mode is a creation tool, and versus sets two players against each other.
The game begins with a simple tutorial that goes over how to play. I appreciate it when a game offers me a tutorial because being thrown in unawares is the worst. This basic tutorial goes over the crafting mechanic and the track building mechanic. Though, the game becomes even more frenetic, which makes this tutorial seem a little weak. Players will have to build the track, take on enemies, and watch the train all at the same time. This game wants players to play together, and when they do, the game becomes far easier. There is something genuinely fun about guiding a train to its destination with even just one friend by the player’s side. The train will inch down the track, and the players will need their wits about them: to keep the train moving.
Enemies in this game will steal from the player. They will take tracks and other necessary track building components. Players can battle them away, but they have to take stock and keep the train moving. This game isn’t playing around; and will consistently keep the players moving. Unrailed is a cooperative game, and everyone must do their part. It has been a while since I’ve seen a game like this, and I appreciate how deeply multiplayer it is. Online mode is even more wild than local. In online mode, players match up with different people to complete the seed given. I found myself struggling because the only way to communicate is with a thought bubble system. Players need to be able to do different tasks and know what one needs doing at that time. This mode is suitable for players who know what they are doing and isn’t suggested for those just starting. With so many variables in play, learn to play the game before diving into online mode.
While Unrailed is better suited as a multiplayer game, players can play this whole game solo. Players will team up with a robot that they will have to guide through the game. Players can choose what actions the robot will take while taking out enemies and doing everything else themselves. While it can be fun, this playstyle would probably make more sense after the player plays with friends. In my initial solo run, my train crashed within feet from the start. The robot does indeed listen to commands, but the player has to juggle everything the game throws at them while also commanding the robot. The robot can only perform one task at a time, so it, therefore, isn’t all that useful. While it may be trying its best compared to playing with others, it can often be more of a distraction that can lead to a crash.
Unrailed is a wild multiplayer experience that I’m glad I got to try out. This game might not be for everyone, but running around helping a train get to its destination was surprisingly fun. This game can be short and to the point or a little long and drawn out. It’s a fun thing to play with friends and a task to play with the AI. The trains need help to get to the station; will the player help them, or will they crash and burn?
Disclaimer: A review key was provided