“Locomotive-themed survival horror” is not a phrase thrown around often, but it describes the upcoming game, Choo-Choo Charles, pretty well. It doesn’t quite encompass how genuinely creepy this game looks though because it makes it sound like the game is about keeping a train from going off the rails or something. While exploring a dreary, open-world island on your own little yellow engine-that-could, you could round a corner and come face to face with a nightmarish train with giant spider legs and a clown face that would give Pennywise a run for his money. You’re literally being hunted by a killer clown spider train!
As weird as it sounds, the trailer was actually compelling. The dark and rainy setting of the island along with the haggard appearance of the town being haunted by Charles is the perfect backdrop. You’ll have to interact with them if you’re going to survive because they will give you advice and even gear to help you upgrade. Your little yellow train isn’t much to look at at first, but he can be updated to become your champion. Equip him with more armor, more speed, and better weapons, such as a machine gun or flame thrower. Using a little blueprint you can add the upgrades as you collect materials.
Venturing from your train into the town comes with a lot of risks though. Choo-Choo Charles does not stay in one place. He could come across you while you are at your most vulnerable, which is very scary. The spider legs allow him to move off of the rails, so he could be anywhere. He isn’t the only threat though. While many of the town residents are helpful, some are cultists who worship the killer train. When you go looking for resources, you’ll have to keep an eye on them as well.
Once your train is up to snuff, challenge Choo-Choo Charles to a duel and see who comes out on top. In the trailer below, the screaming and horrible sounds of the monster train are enough to make you forget about the odd premise. Charles is terrifying!
Choo-Choo Charles is being created by one developer, Gavin Eisenbeisz. Under the banner of his company, Two Star Games, he has slowly been developing the game for a couple of years and first announced it in June 2021. Since then, apparently, he has had a few deadline goals that unfortunately didn’t pan out. Now, however, he says that “tons of improvements and additions have been made to the game, and I’m thrilled with how it’s turning out.” The game is almost done and skittering our way on December 9, 2022! It will be available to buy on Steam, though a price is not listed yet. Go ahead and add it to your wishlist to get updates!
