Trains, eh? Previously we've covered the train sim Densha de Go! 64 (1998) and its eccentricities. Now we have a handheld take on that! Zero Zero: Perfect Stop just launched on Playdate from solo indie dev Hunter Bridges.
In this one you become a Japanese train driver! The challenge is to manage your various train journeys by stopping at the right stations, sticking to the timetable, and much more. Hop on board the Fuji Express with us as we take a look at its choo choo action.
Live That Train Life in Zero Zero: Perfect Stop
If you're not familiar with the awesome Playdate handheld, the system uses a little crank. That's put to great use here, helping to somewhat replicate shifting a train around its tracks.
And this is a great game with some incredible attention to detail.
The main gameplay option is Driver's Mode, which is where you must navigate your way around Japan's complex railway system. The point of Zero Zero is to get high scores, which you do by effectively managing your speed and timing. All whilst taking in the views around of Mount Fuji (see Hokusai's Fuji for more on that).
It's a surprisingly complicated game, though, but the main driving action is this.
Hunter Bridges has released early development stages of the game on his YouTube channel. Early builds of the game had it looking like this.
The finished product is very polished and is a faithful recreation of Japanese railway systems, with embellishments there for the arcadey vibes going.
Despite the challenges the game poses, this is more about a relaxed experience than anything else. There's even a Free Mode where you can just tour around the tracks minus any tasks—just take in the sights and all that.
It is, really, a game about patience and precision.
Plus, there's one of those cheesy arcade type soundtracks to go with proceedings, too, as you ride along and take in the sights.
A lot of fun then and we'd say one of the top games on the Playdate system. Zero Zero: Perfect Score offers a curious set of game modes and train-based action, but it works a treat.
Another fine example as to why the Playdate's endearing, oddball set of games make it stand out on the market.
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