"An original train Simulator."

This reviews the Japanese dreamcast version of Densha de Go! 2

Graphics 8/10

The graphics in this game are not amazing but they are quite realistic and detailed. This is good as sometimes on long distances the gameplay is not that challenging and as the graphics are quite detailed, you can look at all the detail so you don’t get bored. Tunnels, stations, bridges and other are all easy to see from a big distance. This is helpful, because in some dreamcast games objects in the distance are not very easy to see.
The only view available is from the front of the train and everything is in full 3d.
On City railways, buildings, roads etc are all present with good levels of details. There are even cars on the roads which drive along which is a nice touch. Also you can make out individual people on stations. On Scenic routes, the rural landscape is quite detailed. When going over a high bridge the graphics are quite impressive. When it snows, it even sticks to the windscreen and makes the wipers turn on.

Sound 7/10

The sound in this game is very realistic sounding like a real train. The music is relaxing which suits the game well. The only problem is that the in game commentator speaks in Japanese, knowing Japanese helps but it’s not essential.

Gameplay 7/10

It takes about 20mins to pick up the feeling for this game, once you do the game is surprisingly enjoyable. You start off the game with slow trains and the short train routes to ease you into the game. As you progress faster trains and longer distances are available adding challenge to the game.
To sum up the gameplay you start at one station and you are expected to reach another station within a certain time.
This is harder than it sounds. You must stop at a certain point at a platform which requires precise braking and a lot of practise to not over shoot the station or to stop too early. Most routes normally require you to stop at multiple stations to pick up passengers. There are also other challenges such as slowing down for corners and bridges. If you do not then you lose points. If you lose to many points then the game is over. At one point if you do not slow down for a crossing then your train hits a truck which is quite funny. Slowing down is not as easy as you expect with gradual breaking required or you lose points for upsetting passengers. In game passengers are shown falling over etc if you brake to strong! A lot of practise is required to be a good train driver. It may sound easy just to accelerate and brake but constant checking of your speed and distance to go the next station is required.
The problem is that as all tips are given in Japanese, this can get confusing and frustrating. After a while though you can guess what some of the tips mean, but a knowledge of Japanese makes this game more enjoyable.

Control 6/10

As this is a train simulation game there is a special train control available this makes the game easier to control as the buttons are labelled. For most people they would use the standard dreamcast controller. The controls are relatively simple with no steering required, only breaking, accelerating and using the horn. At first the controls are a bit confusing, but as you play the game they become second nature.

Lifespan/Replayability 6/10

It may be surprising but densha de go 2 is quite addictive and no means short. As lots of practise is required to stop at the right place and at the right time, once you get the hang of this it is very satisfying. Also as there are faster trains to unlock and different routes the game keeps wanting you to come back for more. As the game is in Japanese this can become very frustrating and difficult if you don’t understand it. This could very possibly get you annoyed and make you want to stop playing. If you can overcome this the game has a longer life span.

Overall 7/10

Densha de go 2 is certainly original but it may seem a bit strange to some, but it is enjoyable once you have the hang of it. If you know some Japanese it certainly helps but it is not essential. If you ever wondered what driving a game is like, then this is the game for you. Even if you have never wondered what a train would be like to drive, you may be surprised to find out it can be enjoyable.

Reviewer's Score: 7/10, Originally Posted: 12/20/02, Updated 12/20/02