Build a transport company across a living, changing country. Lay railways, run trams through growing towns, send steamers between ports and mail planes between cities, and connect mines, farms and mills to the people who need what they make, from 1920 to the present day.
DESCRIPTION SUPPLIED BY THE DEVELOPER THROUGH STEAM
Inside the game.
Screenshots supplied by John Nicholson through Steam.
Check the official page for current availability, supported devices and any in-game purchases.
ANSWERS FOR YOUR FIRST SESSION
Ironline gameplay guide and player questions
Steam edition · Researched Nov 10, 2026 · Guide updated Nov 10, 2026.
Our guidance
How do I begin my first session in the game?
You start your journey in 1920 with a limited amount of money and an empty map. Your primary goal is to lay track across the hills and place stations beside towns and industries to begin building your network.
What happens to the environment as I expand my railway?
Every track you lay transforms the surrounding country. Towns will naturally grow along your railways, mills begin production once coal arrives, and the land you connect becomes filled with active traffic as your network expands.
What types of transport infrastructure can I build?
You can construct railways featuring stations, junctions, passing loops, viaducts, and tunnels on single or double tracks. Additionally, you can implement electric trams in town streets and utilize lorries and buses on the roads.
The game features real cargo chains. For example, coal is transported to power stations, ore to steel mills, and grain to food works. Successfully serving these industries allows them to grow and increase their output.
What is the consequence of failing to serve an industry?
If you leave an industry or works unserved, a rival company will likely build into that area instead. It is important to serve works well to ensure they grow and to maintain your competitive advantage.
How does the game handle the progression of technology over time?
The game covers a century of change. As time passes, steam power gives way to diesel and electric engines, while biplanes are eventually replaced by modern airliners, reflecting the technological evolution of the era.
How can I ensure my transport lines remain efficient?
You can manage your network using timetables and even spacing to keep your lines running on time. The network map is a vital tool that shows every line and identifies which works are worth building next.
Can I prevent rival companies from taking over my territory?
Yes, you can sign a specific works or a town to your company. This action helps you secure the area and keeps rival companies out, allowing you to maintain control over your established network.
Showcase mode allows you to hand the camera over to a director. This feature lets you watch your railway network being filmed, providing a cinematic view of your operations, particularly during the golden hour.
Does the game include accessibility or difficulty settings?
The game includes adjustable difficulty settings and a mouse-only option. It is also playable without timed input, and you can save your progress at any time, making it flexible for different playstyles and preferences.
AI-assisted research with automated evidence and consistency checks. Good Game Daily organizes publisher information into practical answers. Guidance is an editorial interpretation of those sources. These notes are based on source research rather than a firsthand playtest; editions and later updates may differ.
YOUR NEXT STEP
Follow the release before planning a session
For Ironline · Steam edition.
Steam lists the release window as Coming soon. Recheck it before making plans.
A coming-soon listing does not mean the game is playable today. Check the official page for a test, demo or updated release announcement.
Compare the listed Windows requirements with your device before adding it to your plans.