New city builder Islands and Trains is a relaxing alternative to Cities Skylines

There's something tremendously relaxing about putting together the perfect rail network. Games like Cities Skylines are great for it, but sometimes the overarching management elements can be overwhelming. Transport Fever 3 is on the way, but what about something simpler, prettier, and cozier, and that you can play right now? Islands and Trains delivers exactly what it promises, and once you've seen it in action you'll immediately understand why it caught my eye. Out now on Steam, this is pure delight at a budget price.

Islands and Trains developer Akos Makovics wants you to have a stress-free time. This isn't intended to be a high-pressure simulation; it's a cozy blend of city builder and sandbox game with a focus on the tracks. Lay out networks across the beautiful landscapes, building bridges and winding tracks around mountains, or adjust and sculpt the land to suit your needs. If you enjoy the laid-back creativity of Summer House or Tiny Glade, Islands and Trains extends that concept out with a touch more grand-scale thinking.

With an extensive toolset at your disposal, you can create and edit almost any aspect of the world that takes your fancy. There are no strict rules or timers to get in the way. Its creator cites the likes of Islanders, Dorfromantik, and Townscaper as key influences and, while it's ultimately fairly simple, the low price point (made even cheaper right now thanks to a small Steam sale discount for launch) makes Islands and Trains a very appealing way to wind down in the evening.

Islands and Trains is out now on Steam, with a 10% launch discount meaning you'll pay $6.29 / £5.30 if you buy it by Thursday June 12, or $6.99 / £4.89 thereafter. Find it here and start planning your perfect railroad.

Need even more to melt away the stress of the day? Here are the best relaxing games on PC right now. You should also take a look through our recommendations of the best indie games in 2025, to ensure you aren't missing anything special.

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