Islands & Trains

Islands & Trains is a serene sandbox game developed by Akos Makovics and Fabi Smith, two indie developers from Germany and Hungary, respectively. Released in 2025 and published by Future Friends Games, the title invites players into a peaceful world where they can build and customize miniature railway dioramas set on small, picturesque islands. Unlike many traditional games, Islands & Trains places no emphasis on objectives, timers, or missions, allowing players complete freedom to craft their own relaxing experience. The game currently exists as a PC release available through digital distribution, where it has found a dedicated following among fans of slow-paced, creative simulations.

The gameplay in Islands & Trains centers around creativity and exploration. Players design intricate train routes weaving through scenic islands, arranging landscapes with gentle hills, rivers, and trees, while adding charming animals and buildings to bring their worlds to life. This emphasis on open-ended play echoes inspirations such as Islanders, Dorfromantik, and Townscaper, games known for their minimalist design and calming atmospheres. The combination of train building with tranquil island scenery gives Islands & Trains a unique niche, blending the joy of model railway creation with the meditative qualities of landscape crafting.

Complementing the game’s visual and gameplay style is its soothing soundtrack, composed by Samantha van der Sluis. Released alongside the game, the music features gentle, melodic pieces with titles like “Countryside” and “Peaceful Meadows,” designed to deepen the player’s sense of calm and immersion. The soundtrack’s soft piano, ambient sounds, and delicate instrumentation perfectly match the slow, deliberate pace of the gameplay, enhancing the overall atmosphere of relaxation and creativity. It has been praised for its ability to maintain a serene mood without ever becoming repetitive or distracting.

Upon release, Islands & Trains was warmly received by players and critics who appreciated its inviting, stress-free experience and the creative freedom it provided. Promotion for the game leaned heavily on social media, with players sharing their imaginative island layouts on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, helping to build a community around the title. The publisher, Future Friends Games, also highlighted Islands & Trains alongside other simulation and train-themed games to broaden its appeal. Overall, the game stands out as a thoughtful and charming addition to the indie sandbox genre, appealing to those who seek a peaceful retreat through digital creativity.