Check out the new installment of the “First Look” series, which is full of exciting new content –
At the center of the game is a significantly improved traffic simulation. Vehicles now react much better to their surroundings, change lanes, overtake slower traffic and dynamically select the fastest routes in each case. To expand the whole thing even further, the tools for road construction have also been completely revised. From simple intersections to complex traffic junctions, it can be built at any angle and traffic flow can be optimized with full lane control. Pedestrian crossings and freely placeable traffic lights round off the toolbox, taking the game’s traffic simulation to a new level.
In “First Look: Episode 2”, Urban Games has already shown how the cargo system has been expanded. The new episode is now equally dedicated to passenger transport. Residents have a desired maximum travel duration and become dissatisfied if their travel routes take too long. This influences a city’s reputation and, accordingly, its growth. In addition, comfort now also plays an important role; a value that, if sufficiently available, increases the patience of passengers.
Stations and stops have been thoroughly revised and are completely modular. Specialized expansions, for example, increase capacity, improve comfort and increase the catchment radius, which has a direct impact on passenger satisfaction and city growth. However, growth also has its downsides: a more developed infrastructure leads to more noise and pollution, forcing players to carefully weigh up entrepreneurial progress and quality of life.
The track construction system now has three different track types, each of which differs in speed, cost and pollution. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, as the players’ approach requires them to choose the right track for every line, service, and situation. The possibility of train prioritization ensures that express connections can run at maximum efficiency, even in busy networks.
To support the revised city growth mechanics, the tram system has been massively expanded. Tram tracks can now be built on any lane, underground or even completely independent of road traffic. Freight trams and seamless integration into classic railway systems as light rail systems connect the modes of transport in a new way. Used correctly, they significantly reduce road traffic and keep the population moving efficiently, especially in combination with the railway infrastructure.
Environmental influences play a greater role than ever before. Noise barriers, tree-lined avenues and intelligent routing help to counteract pollution and noise, but there is no single solution that meets all the needs of a city without compromise. Only careful implementation and weighing of the possibilities can ensure that the negative effects remain as low as possible.
Consistent vehicle maintenance is essential for everything to run smoothly. Vehicles no longer wear out just visually over time, as poor maintenance now has a direct and noticeable impact on speed, comfort and efficiency, significantly increasing noise and pollution. Extended waypoint functions now make the route guidance of vehicles much more flexible. In this way, noise pollution and heavily trafficked areas can be avoided in a targeted manner and breathtaking routes embedded in the landscape can be created. Flight routes can also be customized, giving players unprecedented control over their airways.
In Transport Fever 3, purely financial profit is no longer enough. Satisfaction of cities, smart expansion and efficient provision of transport services determine long-term success. Every decision has an impact on city growth and shapes the legacy as a transport tycoon.