Railway Empire: Crossing the Andes

The DLC Railway Empire: Crossing the Andes was developed by Gaming Minds Studios and published by Kalypso Media. It was released in October 2018 as an expansion to the base game, introducing a new South American region focused on the rugged Andes mountain range. Available on PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, this DLC challenges players to build and manage railroads through some of the most difficult terrain in the world, adding a fresh layer of complexity to the core game.

In this expansion, players face the demanding task of navigating steep cliffs, narrow mountain passes, and high altitudes, requiring careful planning and engineering ingenuity. New maps recreate the dramatic landscape of the Andes, while specialized locomotives and infrastructure elements like tunnels and bridges help players overcome natural obstacles. The DLC features new missions and contracts that reflect the historic significance of railroads in connecting remote parts of South America, offering unique challenges tied to the region’s geography and economy.

The inspiration for Crossing the Andes draws from the real-life history of railroad construction in this formidable mountain range, highlighting the remarkable achievements and difficulties faced by engineers and planners of the time. This historical backdrop enriches the gameplay by demanding adaptive strategies and resource management to succeed under harsh environmental conditions. The DLC enhances the base game’s simulation elements, introducing mechanics related to elevation changes and terrain hazards that require strategic foresight and tactical decisions.

Complementing the gameplay, the soundtrack incorporates thematic music that evokes the adventurous spirit and industrial ambition of the era in South America. The DLC was promoted through trailers and community engagement that emphasized the new geographic and gameplay features, sparking excitement among fans. Upon release, Crossing the Andes was well received for its challenging content, immersive setting, and the depth it added to Railway Empire, solidifying its reputation as a valuable and engaging expansion.