PGC NEWS

The global gaming industry’s rapid growth has given rise to a fascinating trend: the revival of forgotten historical narratives through interactive storytelling. From the brave Polish partisans of World War II in Partisan 1941 to the daily life of a medieval village in Pentiment, and the adventures of a peasant in Kingdom Come Deliverance, these games, fueled by a passion for history, offer players worldwide a glimpse into compelling historical moments. Last Train Home, developed by Ashborne Games, continues this trend, focusing on a forgotten chapter of Russian history during the tumultuous era of revolution. This real-time strategy game follows the Czechoslovak Legion’s arduous journey across war-torn Russia as they seek passage home amidst a brutal civil war.

A Desperate Journey Home

In 1918, Russia was embroiled in a bloody civil war between the Bolsheviks and the White Army. This complex conflict involved not only Russian factions but also foreign intervention, separatist movements, and remnants of the Tsarist regime. The Czechoslovak Legion, caught in this crossfire, fought alongside the White Army under the promise of independence for a new Czechoslovak republic. As the war raged, weary and disillusioned, the Legion sought a path home, embarking on a perilous journey across the vast and hostile Russian landscape aboard armored trains. Last Train Home captures this little-known historical episode, highlighting the Legion’s precarious position. Deprived of essential supplies, constantly threatened by bandits and warring factions, their survival depended on resourcefulness and strategic decision-making.

Last Train Home

The game’s core gameplay revolves around two key activities: managing the train’s journey and deploying soldiers for reconnaissance and resource gathering. Players must carefully balance resources like food, fuel, medicine, and ammunition, essential for both train travel and combat. The “human element” adds another layer of complexity. Each soldier has health, morale, and stamina, all impacted by the player’s decisions. Injuries, lack of supplies, and the deaths of comrades can severely affect morale, further hindering the Legion’s progress.

Leading Through Uncertainty

Assuming command after the previous leader’s demise, the player takes on the role of a young, inexperienced officer facing the skepticism of veteran soldiers. Earning their trust and navigating the perilous journey becomes a central challenge. The game masterfully portrays the soldiers as individuals, each with a unique voice, story, and dream of returning to a newly formed Czechoslovakia. Through hardship and loss, players develop a strong bond with their troops, further intensifying the emotional weight of the journey.

Last Train Home

This connection is fostered through the seamless integration of gameplay and narrative. The high-stakes environment and constant threat of danger make every interaction with the soldiers, whether in combat, managing the train, or simply conversing during downtime, feel meaningful. The permadeath mechanic further amplifies the impact of loss, making every decision a crucial one.

Last Train Home

The Struggle for Survival

Managing resources is a constant challenge. While trading with locals is possible, essential items are often scarce and expensive, making self-reliance crucial. The interplay between resource management, combat, and maintaining troop morale creates a compelling gameplay loop, demanding careful planning and adaptation.

Last Train Home

The emotional toll of the journey is palpable. Players are constantly forced to push their soldiers to their limits, risking their lives and well-being for the sake of the mission. As the journey progresses and the prospect of home draws closer, the game delivers a powerful and poignant narrative of resilience, camaraderie, and the enduring human spirit.

Last Train Home

A Flawed Combat System

Despite the compelling narrative and engaging management mechanics, Last Train Home‘s combat system falls short. The top-down perspective and stealth options evoke classic titles like Desperados and Commandos, but the level design and enemy AI hinder the experience. Stealth sequences often feel rudimentary, quickly devolving into open combat due to predictable enemy behavior. The simplistic AI makes combat encounters trivial, even with varied soldier classes like medics, riflemen, scouts, and grenadiers. The lack of challenge diminishes the strategic depth and ultimately detracts from the overall experience.

Last Train Home

Conclusion

Last Train Home shines in its portrayal of a forgotten historical event and the human cost of war. The compelling narrative, interwoven with challenging resource management, creates an emotionally resonant journey. However, the flawed combat system undermines the overall experience, preventing the game from reaching its full potential. Despite this shortcoming, Last Train Home offers a unique and thought-provoking experience, showcasing the power of games to explore complex historical narratives.