Rail Route News

Rail Route 1.0 arriving on February 22nd!

Hello Rail Routers!

Hey everyone, Angel here - your fellow rail enthusiast. I'm over the moon to announce that Rail Route is gearing up for its full release on February 22nd! This isn't just a milestone; it's a celebration of our journey together.

[h2]🎉 Rail Route's full release date announced! 🎉[/h2]
📅 Mark Your Calendars: February 22nd - A Red-Letter Day in Rail Route History! 📅

Don't miss out on our epic LIVE stream on our Steam page, where I'll be joined by a special guest. And it’s more than just a launch; this will be a grand celebration of our shared passion of trains.

[h2]The rail log: Our Early Access expedition[/h2]

As we approach this significant milestone, let's look back at our voyage through Early Access. It's been an extraordinary journey with Rail Route, filled with challenges, learning, and triumphs. The game has really changed to the better a lot in so many areas.

[h3]In-depth journey insights & lessons:[/h3]

Crafting a Visionary Roadmap: Learning the importance of a well-thought-out 1-2 year roadmap has been a game-changer for us.
Navigating Changes and Choices: Each change was a stepping stone, each decision a lesson in resilience and foresight.
Evolving Game Design: Our experiences have honed our game design skills, allowing us to create a more engaging and enriching experience for our players.
Update Consistency: Committing to regular updates has been crucial in keeping Rail Route dynamic and stable.

[h3]Milestones & Achievements:[/h3]

100 000 copies sold - and counting! A significant milestone that fills us with gratitude and fuels our ambitions for post-release success.

[h3]The challenge of compatibility:[/h3]

An enormous task we undertook was maintaining compatibility with all Early Access saves, workshop maps, and previous choices. This required a delicate balance between innovation and respect for our players' existing experiences. It wasn't just about adding new features; it was about preserving the legacy and effort of our community.

[h3]The result of our experience:[/h3]

All these experiences, combined with our superior software development methodology, have led us to this remarkable pace of updates and enhancements. It's a testament to our team's dedication and your unwavering support that we've achieved such an incredible speed in our development cycle.

[h2]Update highlights[/h2]

Each update brought unique enhancements and features, continuously shaping 'Rail Route' into the game it is today. Here's a brief overview:

Update 1: Introduced keybindings and urban trains.
Update 2: Narrated tutorial with Jozic, new contract managers, and sound design by S. Ronchtetti.
Update 3: Copy & paste, track colors, trial trains in editor, and an inventory system for timetable maps.
Update 4: Launched the Rush Hour game mode.
Update 5: Added Rush Hour Leaderboards and Contests.
Update 6: Unveiled 'The Story of Jozic'.
Update 7: Introduced track alerts, signals on corners, and achievements.
Update 8: Enhanced sensors with stacking and advanced features.
Update 9: Debuted a new menu, all-track crossings, and incoming train icons.
Update 10: Improved seamless menu transition and save naming.
Update 11: Updated construction mechanics for automatic track building.
Update 12: Overhauled UI and contract planning.
Update 13: Implemented UI/UX tweaks.
Update 14: Added regional trains and the Dispatcher Office.
Update 15: Improved schedule planning.
Update 16: Introduced new system upgrades.
Update 17: Featured the Shunting Sensor, Relay Sensor, and the Conductor Office.
Update 18: Introduced the Relay and Shunting Sensors.
Update 19: Introduced Perpetual Circuit and Endless Scoring.
Update 20: Visual updates, Contract Planning over user tracks

Update 21: 1.0 release ... 22 Feb 2024 ...

[h2]Looking forward: Beyond 1.0[/h2]

The journey doesn't end with the full release. Our commitment to you continues with ongoing updates and exciting DLCs, always balancing passion and bold ideas with reality.

Update 22: ???
Update 23: ???
Update 24: ???

🔜 Multiplayer Mode Teaser: And guess what? We're tantalizingly close to unveiling the multiplayer mode!

[h2]📢 Spread the Word: Amplify the Excitement 📢[/h2]

We're counting on you to help make this launch a roaring success! Share the excitement with your friends but remember to keep the biggest buzz for February 22nd!

Together, let's make Rail Route's full release a landmark event in the gaming world!

Warm regards,
Angel, your Executive Producer and Rail Routing enthusiast

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1124180/Rail_Route

Update 19: Rail Route's Latest Features Unveiled!

Hello Rail Enthusiasts!

We're excited to bring you the latest update for Rail Route – Update 19! This update introduces new features and improvements to enhance your railway management experience. Don't forget to join our Discord community for engaging discussions, insights, and connections with fellow rail fans and our dev team!

Now, let's explore the new features!

Perpetual Circuit: A Fresh Approach

The Perpetual Circuit is a game-changer for continuous route allocation. Built onto an auto signal, it ensures the same path is allocated every game tick. Say goodbye to manual adjustments for long one-way block segments!

In Endless mode, find the Perpetual Circuit under a new System Upgrade, complete with a dedicated tutorial. In Timetable and Rush Hour modes, this circuit is readily available for seamless gameplay.

New Endless Scoring System: Aim for the High Score!

We've revamped the scoring for Endless maps, now measuring your success by the highest sum of experience points (Green + Red) earned during a cycle. This change offers a clearer measure of your rail network's efficiency. Climb the leaderboards, coming soon!

Improved Victory Screens: Celebrate Your Success

Victory screens in Timetable and Rush Hour modes have received a UI and immersion makeover. Endless mode will follow, ensuring your accomplishments are celebrated in style.

Simplified Station Construction: Build with Ease

Simplified Station Construction streamlines building. Build stations and platforms from the menu, connect platforms to stations, and configure platform sinks effortlessly.

Updated Bottom Bar: Smoother Navigation

The bottom bar designs now match the train bottom bar for intuitive navigation.

Message Log for Jozic: Never Miss a Beat

Follow Jozic's narrative story with the new Message Log, ensuring you catch every detail during your adventures on the Prague map.

Demo Version Now Available!

Curious about Rail Route but not quite ready to commit? We've got you covered!
The demo is back! Dive into rail network management and get a taste of the addictive gameplay that awaits.

We can also inform that the price has just been lowered in Poland and China, to adapt to local purchase power.

We hope you're as excited about these updates as we are! Join our Discord community to share your experiences with Update 19 and stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes.

Until next time, keep those trains on track and your railways running smoothly!

- The Rail Route Team

Full Changelog

NEW: A bubble icon on the task panel that will open the `Message log` in the story of Jozic so you can see the previous subtitles if you missed some
NEW: Cumulative time & average speed shown for mandatory stop & destination in Contract Configuration when train passes stations
NEW: Edit map button in game mode if the map was loaded from editor
NEW: Map settings check in editor that all stations that are used as an origin station in the timetable should at least have one platform with a sink
NEW: New cycle period marked as yellow vertical line in station info panel timelines
NEW: Perpetual circuit system upgrade that will unlock the Perpetual circuit building item, building this circuit on a semaphore allows it to make a perpetual route
NEW: Platforms in editor are built from the construction menu instead of the stations panel
NEW: Station sign item button in the construction menu in bottom bar
UPDATE: Border toggle removed from the station configuration panel in editor
UPDATE: Changed modal backgrounds to match new UI style
UPDATE: Conductor Offices pre-built in stock Endless maps in suitable locations
UPDATE: Contract platform dropdown now highlighted when platform is selected
UPDATE: Dispatcher office required warning message won't be shown in the station configuration view if no red contract upgrade is unlocked
UPDATE: Dotted connectors are below tracks level. Tunnels have exception.
UPDATE: Export stations button has been moved from stations panel to save and share panel
UPDATE: Learn auto signal task will not be activated if the clicked signal has no possible free destinations to make a route to
UPDATE: Offices required warning messages in the station configuration view will not be shown in editor
UPDATE: Replaced Rail Route logo in illustrations with new yellow logo
UPDATE: Replaced old UI style leader boards with new UI style
UPDATE: Sinks can now be built only from the platform configuration view
UPDATE: Slowed down star reward animations on victory screens
UPDATE: Updated general, contract and contract focus view bottom bar designs to match train bottom bar
UPDATE: Updated rush hour and timetable ending screens with new UI style and controller support
UPDATE: Waiting train icons will no longer be hidden in build mode in Rush hour
UPDATE: opening configuration views is now allowed in the construction mode
FIX: Achievements localization keys fixed after score changes
FIX: Bottom left menu buttons where visible during rush hour wave completed screen
FIX: Contract in editor was not properly updated after deleting used station or all platforms on used station
FIX: Disabled navigation on modals containing only buttons with keybind to avoid confusion
FIX: It was not possible to upgrade/downgrade tunnel speed with tunnel in hand
FIX: Item video had incorrect aspect ratio on build button tooltip
FIX: Mandatory station was not set when creating a contract in editor
FIX: Missing word in main menu add map page
FIX: Error when there was no suitable station found when generating Reg contract
FIX: Only one attached sensor was triggered when train finished shunting by stopping at signal (now: all attached sensors are triggered)
FIX: Plain signs were being included in the number of active stations in the system upgrades bottom bar
FIX: Screenshot of previously loaded map was shown when opening main menu after creating a new map
FIX: Scrolling info panels on the side interrupted when pointer was between info panels or on time offset slider
FIX: Some contract icons were loaded twice
FIX: Station signs that have no platforms were not being highlighted for selection
FIX: Train jitters when focusing the camera on it while moving
FIX: Train was incorrectly reused when just exiting the Coach Yard resulting in occupied CY and track after save&load
FIX: UI was scaled too narrow on some ultrawide configurations
FIX: Upgrade does not immediately become available when its parent has been installed
FIX: platform number background sprite had line artefact on certain zoom levels

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1124180/Rail_Route

All Aboard the Unstable Express: Rail Route Update 19

Hey there, fellow Rail Dispatchers!

Get ready for Rail Route Update 19! We've got some great new features to share that are now live on our Unstable version.

But before we dive into the details, don't forget to join our Discord community. It's the perfect place to connect with fellow Rail Route enthusiasts, chat with our devs, get a sneak peek at what's coming down the track and also where you can get access to Unstable!

We want YOU to try it with us! How to join?

>> Join Discord <<
Check #unstable-version channel

Now, let's get right into the exciting updates:

Perpetual Circuit – Streamlined Rail Management

Introducing the Perpetual Circuit! This circuit can be attached to an auto signal, offering continuous path allocation. It's perfect for managing long one-way block segments efficiently. We've also improved its accessibility, making it easier for both new and experienced players.

In the endless mode, you'll find the Perpetual Circuit under a new System Upgrade, complete with a dedicated tutorial. No more hunting for this handy tool - it's now right at your fingertips. In Timetable and Rush Hour modes, every signal automatically has access to this circuit.

A New Scoring System for Endless Mode!

We've revamped the scoring in Endless mode. Instead of Operational Turnover, we now focus on the sum of experience points (Green + Red) earned in one cycle. This change offers a clearer measure of your rail network's efficiency. Plus, stay tuned for leaderboards coming soon!

Improved Victory Screens - Celebrate Your Success!

Celebrate your achievements with improved victory screens in Timetable and Rush Hour modes. Endless mode will follow suit, complete with shiny star awards. Enjoy a more satisfying endgame experience.

Simplified Station Construction: Easier Rail Building

Introducing Simplified Station Construction, a feature that streamlines station building. Build stations and platforms from the menu, connect platforms to stations, and configure platform sinks. Updated bottom bar for a sleek look. Enjoy a smoother railway-building experience in Rail Route!

A Fresh Look for the Bottom Bar

We've given the bottom bars a visual refresh for a more cohesive and appealing design.

Message Log for Jozic

Stay in sync with Jozic's adventures through the new message log. Now you can easily catch up on Jozic's narrative during your adventures on the Prague map. No more missing important details!

Demo - Try Before You Buy

Curious about Rail Route but not quite ready to commit? We've got you covered! Our demo is back, giving you a taste of the Rail Route experience. Get a taste of the game for free, but act fast – it won't be around forever.

Steam Capitalism & Economy Fest - Get on Board!

Celebrate capitalism with Rail Route during the Steam Capitalism & Economy Fest from January 8 to January 15. Enjoy a 10% discount as we roll along with the festivities.

That's all for now, folks! Join our Discord to try out Update 19 and be among the first to explore the Perpetual Circuit and other fantastic features. As always, your feedback is invaluable, so let us know how these changes enhance your Rail Route experience.

Until next time, keep those switches switching and those locomotives rolling!

- The Rail Route Team

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1124180/Rail_Route

Rail Route at Steam Capitalism & Economy Fest!

Hello fellow Rail Route enthusiasts!

The Money Train Has Arrived!

Join Rail Route at the Steam Capitalism & Economy Fest from January 8 to January 15. We're offering a 10% discount during this event. A little twist – we're not 20% off, but 10%! It's our way of celebrating capitalism with a smile.

Try our new demo!

Experience rail network management with our new free demo, now available right here on the store page. Design, construct, upgrade, and automate your railway network in the city of Prague. Dispatch trains, make traffic flow, and watch your network grow...but don't forget to listen to Jozic's story.

Join Rail Route's Discord community

Connect with fellow Rail Route enthusiasts and our development team on our Discord community. Get pro tips, share suggestions, and be among the first to hear about updates and improvements to Rail Route. Also, if you are a big fan of maps, you still have some few days left on our community contest - will your map be integrated for the 1.0 release of Rail Route?

Don't miss out on the Steam Capitalism & Economy Fest. Rail Route is now 10% off, our new demo is ready to play, and our Discord community is waiting for you.

Until next time, keep the tracks clear and the profits rolling!

-The Rail Route Team

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1124180/Rail_Route

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1896900/Rail_Route_The_Story_of_Jozic/

Hotfix 1.18.13

UPDATE: Localizations (es: achievements, research; hu: achievements; it: achievements, ui; de: research; nl: research, tutorials, ui; ru: ui; zh-Hans: ui)

FIX: Attach loco shunting command in invalid queue prevented opening of shunting queue editing
FIX: Conductor Office returned to Berlin & Wroclaw maps after upgrade
FIX: Contracts with a leg without mandatory stop caused error when Regional Contract Manager was configured (and were rejected by the manager without consideration)
FIX: Double click on Play the Map button in Editor caused double saving & map corruption
FIX: If train overshot a platform (e.g. after reusing while moving over it), it never moved again
FIX: Impossibility to attach a loco to a train at the very end of the track (e. g. loco detached after pushing the train to the signal, then running around)
FIX: It was possible to configure Regional Contract Manager even when its upgrade was not installed
FIX: Recalculate schedule and topology buttons where shown on the bottom bar in play mode when editing a contract
FIX: Set arrival to current time button was shown outside of the editor when editing a contract
FIX: Stop time longer than 2 hours was wrongly formated
FIX: Timetable mode train bottom bar was too tall because research point awards were still shown
FIX: Typo in en text
FIX: Upkeep was not accounted to Operational Turnover and Total of Cycle Report