City Transport Simulator is a detailed simulation game on PC that puts you in charge of managing and driving buses and trams in a bustling European-inspired city. Released in early access in June 2024 and fully launched in January 2025, this title from ViewApp GmbH focuses on authentic public transport operations, blending hands-on driving with network management mechanics.
Gameplay
In City Transport Simulator, the core experience revolves around operating licensed real-world buses and trams with precise physics and interactive cockpits. You handle everything from cold starts at depots to navigating routes, using controls that support keyboards, gamepads, joysticks, and steering wheels with custom mappings. Route creation happens through the Line Editor, where you select stations and paths, while the Timetable Generator lets you set intervals, pause times, and vehicle density. AI vehicles run on your schedules in real time, responding to dynamic passenger flows across a 50km network with 80 stations. The city features a day-night cycle and licensed AI traffic like Deutsche Bahn trains and DHL vans, adding realism as you monitor performance and adapt lines.
Customization plays a big role, allowing you to name your company, routes, and stations, pick from 20 liveries and over 100 logos, and choose station designs. Branding appears on vehicles and signage, with auto-generated announcements in multiple languages. Mechanics include maintaining timetables for passenger satisfaction and optimizing networks, all within a simulation that emphasizes accuracy over action.
Game Modes
Career Mode starts you with limited resources as a small operator. You transport passengers, plan routes, and earn XP to unlock vehicles, lines, and upgrades. Precision driving and on-time performance boost satisfaction and expand your network.
Sandbox Mode offers unrestricted play, where you select from up to 15 pre-made lines or design your own. Drive any vehicle, adjust the environment, and explore the city without goals or pressures.
Features and Updates
The game supports Simulation Mode for full system control and Easy Mode for relaxed play with aids. Ongoing DLC adds vehicles like the MAN New Lion's City bus or GT6 tram, plus map expansions such as the Bus & Tram Depot + South-Route. Updates continue to introduce new content, with recent additions like Basil Green DLC colors in early 2026, building on the base experience of tram and bus management.
Is It Worth Playing?
With mixed Steam reviews at 67% positive from over 1,400 users, City Transport Simulator appeals to simulation fans who enjoy detailed vehicle handling and route planning. Positive feedback highlights the immersive driving and authentic physics, while criticisms point to repetitive maps and limited career depth. If you like transport sims with ongoing support through DLC and updates, it's a solid pick for PC players seeking a focused management experience, though it might not satisfy those wanting broader economic layers.
