Bus Simulator 21

Bus Simulator 21 is a detailed and immersive driving simulation game that puts players behind the wheel of a variety of buses in a contemporary urban setting. Developed by stillalive studios and published by astragon Entertainment, the game offers an expansive open-world environment with diverse districts, realistic bus mechanics, and a range of customization options. Players can manage routes, interact with passengers, and navigate through bustling city streets, all while experiencing the challenges and rewards of being a bus driver. With multiple difficulty settings, it caters to both casual players and simulation enthusiasts, delivering an authentic and engaging bus-driving experience.

Bus Simulator 21: A Comprehensive Review

Introduction

Bus Simulator 21, developed by stillalive studios and published by Astragon Entertainment, is the sixth installment in the Bus Simulator series. Released on September 7, 2021, for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, the game offers an immersive experience into the world of bus driving and management. This review will delve into the game’s development history, narrative and thematic elements, gameplay mechanics, world-building, reception, and legacy.

Development History & Context

The Bus Simulator series has been a staple in the vehicle simulation genre since its inception in 2007. Bus Simulator 21 builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessors, particularly Bus Simulator 18, which was released in 2018. The game was developed using Unreal Engine 4, which allowed for significant improvements in graphics, physics, and overall gameplay mechanics.

The development team at stillalive studios aimed to create a more comprehensive and realistic bus simulation experience. They focused on expanding the fleet of buses, improving the AI for traffic and pedestrians, and introducing new maps and gameplay modes. The game was announced on August 11, 2020, and its release was highly anticipated by fans of the series.

Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive

Bus Simulator 21 is set in the fictional city of Angel Shores, inspired by the San Francisco Bay Area, and a revamped version of the European Seaside Valley map from Bus Simulator 18. The game’s narrative revolves around the player taking on the role of a bus driver and company manager, tasked with building and managing a successful bus company.

The game’s themes include the challenges of daily traffic, the importance of efficient route planning, and the satisfaction of providing reliable public transportation. The narrative is driven by the player’s actions and decisions, which directly impact the success of their bus company.

Gameplay Mechanics & Systems

Bus Simulator 21 offers a variety of gameplay mechanics and systems that cater to different player preferences. The game features a fleet of 30 officially licensed buses from renowned manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz, Setra, MAN, Volvo, Scania, BYD, Alexander Dennis, Grande West, and Blue Bird. Players can choose from a range of bus types, including rigid city buses, articulated models, double-deckers, and electric buses.

The game’s core gameplay loop involves driving buses along various routes, managing timetables, and ensuring passenger satisfaction. Players can also engage in management elements such as route planning, timetable scheduling, employee hiring, and company expansion. The game offers different difficulty levels and play modes, including a career mode and a sandbox mode, allowing players to tailor their experience to their preferences.

World-Building, Art & Sound

Bus Simulator 21 features two primary maps: Angel Shores and Seaside Valley. Angel Shores is a vast, U.S.-themed city with multiple districts, while Seaside Valley is a European-inspired coastal landscape. Both maps are designed with intricate road networks and public transport hubs, providing a realistic backdrop for bus operations.

The game’s visual direction is characterized by detailed bus models, realistic city environments, and dynamic weather and day-night cycles. The sound design includes faithfully recreated bus sounds, automated announcements at stops, and ambient city noises, all of which contribute to an immersive experience.

Reception & Legacy

Bus Simulator 21 received mixed or average reviews from critics upon its release. The game was praised for its realistic simulation elements, authentic bus handling, and licensed vehicles. However, it was criticized for repetitive tasks, graphical issues, and a lack of depth in management mechanics.

Despite these criticisms, Bus Simulator 21 has maintained a steady player base and has received ongoing updates and expansions. The game’s legacy is marked by its contribution to the vehicle simulation genre and its role in expanding the Bus Simulator series.

Conclusion

Bus Simulator 21 is a comprehensive and advanced bus simulation game that offers a realistic and immersive experience. While it has its flaws, the game’s strengths in terms of gameplay mechanics, world-building, and sound design make it a notable entry in the Bus Simulator series. Its reception and legacy highlight its importance in the vehicle simulation genre, and it continues to attract players who enjoy the challenges and satisfaction of managing a bus company.