Train simulation enthusiasts, prepare for a surprise! Dovetail Games, renowned for their realistic Train Sim World series, just unveiled an exciting new direction with the announcement of ‘Metro Rivals: New York’ at IGN Fan Fest 2025: Fall Edition. This isn’t your typical quiet commute!
Described as an “innovative and genre-defying subway simcade game,” ‘Metro Rivals: New York’ promises to deliver a thrilling experience when it launches in early 2026.
Imagine a near-future New York City, where the subway isn’t just for commuting – it’s a battleground! The game thrusts players into a system divided into 10 fiercely contested districts. Beyond a gripping single-player campaign, ‘Metro Rivals: New York’ boasts an exhilarating PvP mode, allowing up to four players to compete online or locally. Success hinges on more than just speed; drivers must master precision and control under pressure as they race to hit designated platforms and earn top scores.
The debut trailer for ‘Metro Rivals: New York,’ showcased during IGN Fan Fest, offered a tantalizing peek at the high-octane train racing mechanics that await in this exciting new title.
Dovetail reveals a compelling narrative where players start their journey with a humble, hand-me-down train and a burning ambition to dominate. To climb the ranks, you’ll undertake diverse missions, rake in cash fares, enhance your train’s performance, cultivate a dedicated fanbase, and ultimately command respect in the cutthroat underground world.
Good news for players concerned about monetization: Dovetail confirms that all in-game purchases will be “entirely cosmetic,” ensuring a fair, “not pay-to-win” experience. Players will have vast opportunities to personalize their journey, from upgrading train performance and applying unique skins and liveries to customizing their character’s appearance to truly make a statement on the tracks.
For those who prefer a less competitive ride, ‘Metro Rivals: New York’ also offers a “more relaxed experience.” You can simply choose your own route, hop into your train, and soak in the vibrant sights and sounds of the city at your own pace.
Metro Rivals: New York is slated for release on Steam, the Epic Games Store, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S in early 2026.
Under the hood, ‘Metro Rivals: New York’ is a technological leap for Dovetail, as it’s their inaugural title developed using Unreal Engine 5. This powerful engine brings the vibrant cityscape to life. Furthermore, a collaboration with Reactional Music introduces a cutting-edge procedural music engine, ensuring that the game’s soundtrack is “fully native and cinematically integrated,” dynamically adapting to gameplay, even when switching tracks.
Mark your calendars! ‘Metro Rivals: New York’ will be available on PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store, as well as on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. You can add it to your wishlist today!