In the evolving landscape of survival gaming, a remarkable shift is underway. Gone are the days of crafting static wooden shelters; the genre is embracing a dynamic new concept—mobile bases that traverse the landscape on trains. With at least six, possibly seven, survival games set on moving trains slated for release in 2026, players can expect an innovative twist on traditional gameplay.
Frostrail
Leading the charge is Frostrail, developed by FakeFish, known for their acclaimed submarine survival game, Barotrauma. This solo or co-op survival first-person shooter invites players to brave the frigid elements while scavenging for resources and fending off hostile creatures. The train serves not just as a refuge but as a vital lifeline, propelling players through a frozen world. Players will need to upgrade their engine to enhance speed and capacity, ensuring they remain mobile in their quest for survival. “Your train is your only way forward,” the developers emphasize, highlighting the importance of managing power and resources as players explore the desolate landscape.
EverRail
Another intriguing title, EverRail, plunges players into a world gripped by frost, where survival hinges on keeping the train in motion. Up to four players can utilize drones for reconnaissance, explore on foot, and engage in first-person combat against various foes. A unique respawn mechanic adds depth to the gameplay: upon death, players assume the role of another passenger, allowing for continued exploration as long as there are remaining passengers. New characters can be discovered throughout the procedural world, enhancing the game’s replayability.
Enginefall
Drawing thematic inspiration from the film Snowpiercer, Enginefall presents a colossal megatrain as the backdrop for its narrative. Players will navigate through various train cars, each offering distinct environments to loot, battle, and ultimately claim as part of their mobile home. From cramped quarters to opulent first-class sections, the game encourages players to ascend from the tail to the engine, transforming each carriage into a strategic base.
Frostliner
In Frostliner, the stakes are raised as players manage a vast train filled with citizens in a world rendered inhospitable by a shattered moon. This game blends elements of city-building with survival mechanics, as players must upgrade their train and ensure the safety of its inhabitants. The train becomes a multifunctional hub—serving as a base, transport, and storage—while players customize it to adapt to various environmental challenges. With additional vehicles like buggies available for exploration, Frostliner promises a rich and immersive experience.
Steel Artery: Train City Builder
For those who enjoy a more strategic approach, Steel Artery: Train City Builder offers a city-building experience on rails. Players will construct a steampunk city inhabited by diverse characters, including elves and orcs. Resource management is crucial, as every building impacts the economy—workers require salaries, and establishments need to be stocked. Players must strategically plan their stops in resource-rich areas to ensure the city thrives amidst the challenges of survival.
Railborn
Lastly, Railborn stands out with its promise of a freeform building system, allowing players to customize their train for various biomes. While it hasn’t been officially confirmed for 2026, the game invites players to scavenge for resources, reconstruct dying ecosystems, and traverse an alien world aboard their mobile sanctuary. The potential for creativity in building different train cars—such as greenhouses and aquariums—adds an exciting layer to the survival genre.
