This isn’t like my other blogs. Normally, I’d be ranting about something that’s happened recently, or reviewing a current piece of tech. But I’m starting this with a question - how on Earth did I not know about Mini Metro for so long!?

I’ve always been fascinated by trains and train maps since I was a kid (just ask my Dad who I dragged around all the Hornby train conventions at Sutton Centre). So, to only know about this now makes me sad for the 2+ years I’ve not had Mini Metro in my life.

But I’m glad I stumbled across it, because alongside Reigns: Game of Thrones, it’s arguably another near-perfect mobile gaming experience that you absolutely need to try.

So, from looking at screenshots and other elements here, chances are you don’t need an explainer on the gameplay, but I will give you the cliff notes. This is all about planning and efficiency, as you work to build a subway that effectively delivers all passengers to their destinations without creating bottlenecks or overcrowding stations.

The first bit that jumps out at you is the minimal design, which extends through both the visuals and audio - just peacefully droning on in the background, becoming a real treat for the eyes and ears.

Gameplay is both tense-yet-calm, as it works to train the planning, organisation and quick thinking parts of your brain. As the difficulty rises and weeks go on, you start to progressively think further outside the box for quick fixes to busy stations. It’s a satisfying experience to watch your analytical thinking in action on-screen, but of course, if it goes wrong, it doesn’t feel bad.

You don’t feel punished for it. Much like a good office (or the good office you wish you worked in…I know who you all are), you critique your own decisions and go again. It’s not a grind - the repeat play is welcomed and actively enjoyed.

Plus, there are so. Many. levels. Spanning across the globe, you have plenty of subway challenges to tackle.

And let’s not forget my favourite bit - endless mode. Lift those in-game rules and restrictions, and just enjoy setting up a ruthlessly efficient train line. Watching the smooth flow of passengers is the visual equivalent of ASMR. 

It’s a tranquil, hypnotising experience that will have you re-organising the train maps of the world whenever you come across them. Well worth the mere £3.99.

Oh, and it even has a dark mode. Love a good dark mode, me.