How to Create an Engaging Puzzle: Railbound, a Train on a Track-bending Journey

Hi! My name is Luke and I’m here to tell you a bit about our latest game – RailboundA puzzle game featuring a couple of dogs who are on a journey across the globe by train.

The Right Track

Progress in Railbound,Players must place, reroute or remove rail connections to ensure that the train cars are safely attached to the engine and in the right order. It’s difficult because you only have a certain amount of track on each level. We also introduce new mechanics gradually and reinforce them with later puzzles.

We play test the game at an early stage to ensure that it is optimal. Early on, we noticed that many players did not understand that they could modify the route of rails already in place without having to remove them. So, we added special puzzles focusing on this particular aspect.

Another example may be how in early development, the initial direction of the train carriages was not visible enough, leaving players confused about which way they’ll go – which is why we added animated arrows in front of them to alleviate that problem. These features were designed through testing to ensure that the first experience was as enjoyable as possible.

We have had almost all of our members involved in the design and creation of puzzles. RailboundThis presents an opportunity for everyone to create new levels, as each member has a different style. For example, I tend to focus on the unexplored design space between mechanics (which interactions haven’t been covered in existing puzzles?) As well as the onboarding of the player (in which order do we introduce the mechanics?) The pace of the tutorial is too fast or slow? Meanwhile other team members might pursue other aspects, such as “levels that look nice and symmetrical” or “let’s just make a really brutal puzzle” which gives the final game an interesting balance.

The World is Connected

In our previous titles – inbentoThe following are some examples of how to get started: Golf Peaks – we’ve always struggled with incorporating bonus puzzles that would be enjoyable for more experienced players, while not causing frustration to those looking for a more casual experience.

Here’s why Railbound, we’ve divided our 200-plus puzzles into “base” and “bonus” levels which are linked together on the world map. The first type are levels which need to be completed in a linear fashion, and we usually utilize them to teach mechanics that you’ll need on your journey. You’ll also get a sweet illustration of our game mascots if you solve all the base puzzles within a world. Yes, it’s true! Can you imagine?Pet the dog

Bonus levels often present more difficult challenges that are similar but also designed to be a variation on the basic ones. We often created these levels first but, after deciding that they were too complex (yet interesting), designed easier versions. But sometimes, changing one single tile can be enough to make the puzzle more challenging.

Our intent is that most players should focus on the main path; but if you ever find yourself in need of extra challenge or can’t find a way to crack a base level, feel free to check out the bonus ones too!

All Trains Everyone

We are very focused on the above mentioned areas. Railbound was making sure that all players can enjoy the experience; which is why we’ve added a slew of accessibility features to accommodate all kinds of players.

Firstly, you have the option to choose whether or not to unlock each level. Railbound You can skip puzzles that are too difficult. This is also handy for anyone who wants to continue playing on another device… or who might’ve lost save data thanks to a younger sibling.

If skipping puzzles altogether sounds like a bit too much, we’ve got an optional hint system that suggests placement for a few tiles on the current level, without spoiling the whole solution.

We hope that you’ll have a great time playing Railbound and our other puzzle titles – we’ve put a lot of heart into them and will continue to do so in the future.

Railbound

7Levels

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

$12.99

$11.04

Join and cut railway lines across diverse landscapes to help all people reach their home. Over 200 puzzles from simple slopes to complex passageways are waiting for you.

BEND RAILS TO MAKE THE TRAINS GO ‘CHOO-CHOO’

Reroute, move or remove connections to ensure that the carriages are safely connected to the locomotive. But, be careful and don’t make them run into each other!

There are 200+ puzzles to complete

The main levels are designed to take you in a relaxing pace through different locations. Forks along the road will lead you to spicy brain-teasers that’ll please even the most demanding players!

TRAINING-INSPIRED MACHINE TECHNICIANS

You can cover huge distances very quickly by using tunnels. Use railway barriers to delay trains. To reroute vehicles in different directions, switch tracks. Take cute companions with you and face more challenges along the way!

Art and music full of a whole lotta vibes

Across the game’s world enjoy our comic-book-inspired visuals and a relaxing original soundtrack by the team behind Golf Peaks and inbento.