Faraway Train Arrives on Xbox

AMATA Games has released Faraway Train for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S today, bringing Tatamibeya’s atmospheric narrative adventure to consoles. Originally launched on PC in June 2021, this puzzle-driven exploration game tasks players with uncovering the tragic history of Empress Roxelana aboard an eternally travelling train.

A Journey Through Imperial Decline

Faraway Train places players aboard an old-fashioned locomotive described as existing in “the narrow space between this world and the next.” The narrative centres on investigating the downfall of an empire through the life of Roxelana, a fallen empress whose use of the ancient magical artifact “Nebula’s Astrolabe” led to worldwide ruin.

The protagonist awakens aboard this mysterious train with instructions to trace Roxelana’s fleeting life and determine when and where the destructive artifact was employed. This setup creates an intriguing blend of historical investigation and supernatural mystery within the confined yet atmospheric setting of a moving train.

Puzzle-Driven Exploration

Gameplay revolves around exploring individual train carriages whilst solving puzzles to progress. Button-locked doors between carriages require puzzle solutions to open, whilst safes and treasure chests demand key-hunting to reveal narrative hints. Players decode information from letters and notes to piece together the imperial collapse and the forgotten noble’s role in these events.

The procedural generation of scenery visible through train windows ensures that players never encounter identical landscapes, creating a sense of endless journey through varied environments. This technical approach should maintain visual interest throughout the investigation process.

Console-Specific Features

The console versions include a free mode allowing players to wander the train freely, sit in preferred seats, gaze out windows, and read preset novels. However, AMATA Games notes that the EPUB reader function from the Steam version isn’t supported on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, limiting reading options to predetermined content.

The game supports eleven languages including Japanese, English, Chinese variants, Korean, and major European languages, ensuring broad accessibility across different regions.

Developer Heritage

Tatamibeya previously developed Nostalgic Train, suggesting expertise in railway-themed atmospheric experiences. AMATA Games has handled the porting and distribution responsibilities to expand the title’s reach beyond its original PC audience.

Priced at approximately $13.99 USD with regional variations, Faraway Train offers single-player narrative adventure focused on atmospheric storytelling rather than action-driven gameplay. The IARC 3+ rating indicates content suitable for all ages.

For players seeking contemplative puzzle adventures with historical mystery elements, Faraway Train provides a unique setting that combines supernatural intrigue with imperial decline themes within the intimate confines of an otherworldly locomotive journey.