Review: STATIONFLOW is a Fun Simulation Game but the Visuals are Very Lackluster
STATIONflow is a new game from DMM Games. In it, you get to create your very own subway station. I know that doesn’t sound interesting, but it’s a surprisingly great indie game now on Steam. I will be honest when I say that I wasn’t too sure how much I was going to enjoy it, but DMM Games was kind enough to send me a code and I’ve genuinely enjoyed my time in the game.
STATIONflow has been in Early Access on Steam for a while and people have been greatly enjoying it. It really is a deep game with simple graphics and a simple premise. You are in charge of running and building an underground train station. The gameplay is very similar to titles like Sim Golf, Roller Coaster Tycoon, and the like. Couple the simple premise with a simple UI that reminds me of the one from Democracy 3. It’s simple, but effective. One thing you will notice about STATIONflow is that the visuals are nothing special. They’re the game’s greatest weak point with bland people-shaped blobs representing people and not much else in the visual department to bring you in.
While the visuals may be lacking, the gameplay is actually fun if you enjoy these types of simulation titles. As I already mentioned, the UI is very straightforward and it’s easy to find the pieces you need to build up your little station. Of course, in addition to building stairs, escalators, and hallways, you’ll also be burdened with creating signs. People in your station rely on reading signs to find where they need to go and therefore you need to make sure your signs are updated whenever you make changes and make sure that they’re accurate. People will get pissed if you don’t stay on top of your signs and that in turn affects how well your station does.
Overall, STATIONflow is fun and some may even find it relaxing or therapeutic. These simulation games can have that effect on people. If the game is ever on sale for closer to the $10 price (it normally retails for about $18) I would highly recommend it for simulation fans. Unfortunately, the bland visuals really do put a damper on the fun of things in my opinion. I think the game is currently great as a starting point and I hope they continue to work on the game to really make it something to behold.
