Densha de Go All Series: How to Play the Train Simulation Games on Various Platforms and Devices
Densha de Go All Series: A Guide to the Ultimate Train Simulation Games
If you are a fan of trains, simulation games, or Japanese culture, you might have heard of Densha de Go, a series of arcade train simulation games developed by Taito, Square Enix, and Railfan Holdings Co., Ltd. Densha de Go, which means "Let's Go by Train" in Japanese, is one of the most realistic and immersive train simulation games ever made, featuring actual train routes based on real services in Japan. In this article, we will introduce you to the history, gameplay, features, and benefits of playing Densha de Go All Series, as well as how you can play them on various platforms and devices.
Densha De Go All Series
What is Densha de Go?
Densha de Go is a series of train simulation games that started with a 1996 arcade version and was first released in a home version for the PlayStation in 1997. Since then, there have been more than 20 titles in the series for various platforms, including Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3 , PlayStation 4, WonderSwan, Game Boy Color, Nintendo 64, Sega Saturn, Dreamcast, Neo Geo Pocket Color, PlayStation Portable, Wii, Nintendo DS, Nintendo Switch, mobile phones, and browsers.
The history and evolution of the series
The first Densha de Go game was created by Taito as a response to the popularity of train simulation games in Japan. It featured four routes from the JR East network in Tokyo: Yamanote Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, Chuo-Sobu Line, and Tokaido Main Line. The game was a hit among arcade goers and train enthusiasts alike, who appreciated its realistic graphics, sound effects, controls, and feedback system. The game also spawned several sequels and spin-offs that added more routes, trains, scenarios, modes, features, and improvements.
Some of the notable titles in the series include:
Densha de Go! 2 (1997) - The first home console version that added more routes from JR East and JR West.
Densha de Go! Professional (1998) - The first PC version that featured high-resolution graphics and online rankings.
Densha de Go! 64 (1999) - The first Nintendo 64 version that used a special controller with a throttle lever and brake handle.
Densha de Go! Shinkansen (2000) - The first spin-off that focused on the high-speed bullet trains.
Densha de Go! Final (2004) - The last title in the series before a hiatus that featured four routes from JR East: Yamanote Line (2003), Chuo Line (Rapid), Keiyo Line (Rapid), and Saikyo Line.
Densha de Go! Special Version - Revived! Showa Yamanote Line (2010) - The first title after Square Enix acquired Taito that featured historical trains from the Yamanote Line.
Densha de Go!! (2017) - The first arcade release in 14 years that featured a vast graphical upgrade, a deluxe multi-monitor cabinet, and years of post-release content.
Densha de Go!! Hashirou Yamanote Sen (2020) - The latest title in the series that brought the 2017 arcade game to consoles while adding the full Yamanote Line.
The gameplay and features of the series
The gameplay of Densha de Go is simple but challenging: you have to drive a train and adhere to a very exacting timetable. You have to stop at stations within as little as 30 cm of a prescribed stopping point, ideally within half a second of the scheduled arrival time. You also have to obey speed limits and other posted signs, sound a warning for work parties along the track, arrive at between-station waypoints on time, and perform similar tasks. Depending on your performance, you will receive points or penalties that will affect your final score.
The features of Densha de Go vary depending on the title, but generally speaking they include:
A wide range of trains to choose from: from commuter trains to express trains to bullet trains.
A large selection of routes to drive on: from urban lines to suburban lines to rural lines.
A realistic representation of the train systems: from signals to switches to announcements.
A dynamic weather system: from sunny days to rainy nights to snowy mornings.
A detailed feedback system: from voice guidance to speedometers to scoreboards.
A variety of modes to play: from arcade mode to free mode to challenge mode.
Why should you play Densha de Go?
If you are still wondering why you should play Densha de Go All Series, here are some reasons why:
The realism and accuracy of the train routes and models
One of the main attractions of Densha de Go is its realism and accuracy. The game developers have done extensive research and fieldwork to recreate the actual train routes based on real services in Japan. They have also used computer-drawn graphics or captured footage to depict the scenery along the tracks. Moreover, they have modeled the trains after their real-life counterparts, including their appearance, sound, and performance. You can even see the passengers inside the cars or hear their conversations. If you are a fan of trains or Japan, you will appreciate the attention to detail and authenticity that Densha de Go offers.
The challenge and satisfaction of driving a train
Another reason why you should play Densha de Go is its challenge and satisfaction. Driving a train is not as easy as it looks. You have to follow strict rules and regulations, maintain safety and punctuality, and deal with various situations and emergencies. You also have to master the controls and techniques of different types and models of trains. Densha de Go tests your skills and reflexes as a train driver, and rewards you with points and rankings for your performance. You can also compare your scores with other players online or offline, or try to beat your own records. If you are looking for a game that is both fun and challenging, Densha de Go will not disappoint you.
The variety and diversity of the train scenarios and modes
A third reason why you should play Densha de Go is its variety and diversity. With over 20 titles in the series, Densha de Go offers a lot of content and options for you to enjoy. You can drive different types of trains, from electric trains to steam locomotives, from commuter trains to express trains, from bullet trains to trams. You can also explore different routes, from urban lines to suburban lines, from rural lines to high-speed lines. You can also experience different scenarios, from normal operations to special events, from historical settings to futuristic settings. You can also choose different modes, from arcade mode to free mode, from challenge mode to two-player mode. With so much variety and diversity, Densha de Go will keep you entertained for hours.
How can you play Densha de Go?
If you are interested in playing Densha de Go All Series, here are some ways how:
The platforms and devices that support the series
As mentioned earlier, Densha de Go has been released for various platforms and devices over the years. You can play it on arcade machines, home consoles, handheld devices, PCs, mobile phones, or browsers. You can find the list of all the titles and their platforms on Wikipedia. Some of the titles are also available for digital download on online stores like PlayStation Store or Nintendo eShop. You can also play the original Densha de Go! released for PlayStation in 1997 via your smartphone browser on a website launched by Square Enix. The accessories and controllers that enhance the experience
Another way to play Densha de Go is to use accessories and controllers that enhance the experience. Over the years, various companies have released dedicated train controllers that mimic the actual levers and buttons used by train drivers. These controllers allow you to control the speed, brake, horn, signals, and other functions of the train with more realism and precision. Some of the controllers also have a built-in LCD screen that displays the speedometer and other information. You can also use headphones or speakers to enjoy the realistic sound effects and announcements of the game.
Some of the notable controllers for Densha de Go include:
Densha de Go! 64 Controller (1999) - The first Nintendo 64 controller that used a special controller with a throttle lever and brake handle.
Densha de Go! Shinkansen Controller (2000) - One of the most extravagant controllers for the series that was released with the Densha de Go! Shinkansen EX game for both the Wii and PS2. It featured a large panel with various buttons and switches, as well as a throttle lever and brake handle.
Densha de Go!! Controller (2021) - The latest controller for the series that was released by Zuiki for the Nintendo Switch. It features a one-handle design that combines acceleration and braking, as well as a large LCD screen that displays various information.
The tips and tricks for beginners and experts
A final way to play Densha de Go is to use tips and tricks that can help you improve your skills and scores. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, there are always ways to learn more about the game and its mechanics. Here are some tips and tricks that might help you:
Read the manual or watch the tutorial before you start playing. They will explain the basic rules, controls, features, and modes of the game.
Practice on easy routes or modes first. They will help you get familiar with the game and its feedback system.
Pay attention to the signs and signals along the track. They will tell you when to speed up, slow down, stop, or warn.
Use the brake handle wisely. Don't brake too hard or too late, or you might overshoot or undershoot your stopping point.
Use the horn appropriately. Don't honk too much or too little, or you might annoy or endanger other people.
Watch your score and ranking. They will show you how well you are doing and how you can improve.
Try different trains, routes, scenarios, and modes. They will challenge you with different situations and difficulties.
Have fun and enjoy the ride. Don't get frustrated or bored, or you might lose interest or motivation.
Conclusion
Densha de Go All Series is a series of train simulation games that offers a realistic and immersive experience of driving trains in Japan. The series has a long history and evolution, with various titles for different platforms and devices. The series also has a lot of gameplay and features, with different types of trains, routes, scenarios, and modes. The series also has many benefits for playing, such as its realism and accuracy, its challenge and satisfaction, and its variety and diversity. The series also has many ways to play, such as using accessories and controllers that enhance the experience, or using tips and tricks that improve your skills and scores.
If you are looking for a game that is fun, challenging, educational, and cultural, you should definitely try Densha de Go All Series. It is a game that will make you feel like a real train driver, and give you a glimpse of Japan's railway system and society. It is a game that will keep you entertained and engaged for hours. It is a game that will make you say, "Let's go by train!"
FAQs
What does Densha de Go mean?
Densha de Go means "Let's Go by Train" in Japanese. It is a phrase that expresses enthusiasm and excitement for traveling by train.
What is the difference between Densha de Go and Train Simulator?
Densha de Go and Train Simulator are two different series of train simulation games. Densha de Go focuses on electric trains in Japan, while Train Simulator covers various types of trains around the world. Densha de Go also uses computer-drawn graphics, while Train Simulator uses video taken from cameras mounted to the front of real-world trains.
What is the best title in Densha de Go All Series?
The best title in Densha de Go All Series depends on your personal preference and taste. Some people might prefer the latest title, Densha de Go!! Hashirou Yamanote Sen, for its graphics and content. Some people might prefer the classic titles, such as Densha de Go! 64 or Densha de Go! Shinkansen, for their nostalgia and charm. Some people might prefer the spin-offs, such as Kisha de Go! or Card de Renketsu! Densha de Go!, for their novelty and variety.
How can I get better at Densha de Go?
You can get better at Densha de Go by practicing regularly, learning from your mistakes, and studying from other players. You can also use accessories and controllers that enhance your experience, or use tips and tricks that improve your skills and scores.
Where can I buy Densha de Go All Series?
You can buy Densha de Go All Series from various online stores, such as Amazon, eBay, or Play-Asia. You can also download some titles digitally from online stores, such as PlayStation Store or Nintendo eShop. You can also play some titles for free on your smartphone browser, such as Densha de Go! on Square Enix's website.