I'll say right now that I'm basing my experience off of the PlayStation 5 version. Any comments I make about how the game plays, chances are they'll apply to how it's played on the PS5. Maybe the other versions play different, maybe they don't, the PS5 was just what I could access. With that out of the way, let's begin.
Wonders of Sodor doesn't have a traditional storyline like the other Thomas games, but for what this game's going for, it doesn't need one. It's instead a simulator where you can drive around Sodor, do some jobs and interact with the engines. And right off the bat, the way Sodor is presented in this game is gorgeous. Not only are the graphics top dollar, but the island itself takes elements from both Awdry's map and the TV series, with a few extra details to keep it fresh. And not only is this railway huge with plenty to do as you explore the railway, but you can also explore the stations and even the towns surrounding them. The game keeps it interesting by hiding both easter eggs from the series and collectibles like whistles, conductor hats and Railway Series books, practically rewarding you for wandering through the catacombs. Sodor isn't the game's setting, it's an actual world. Granted, some of the areas you can explore can be a little barren, but that doesn't really hurt the game.
But how's the gameplay itself? I'll admit, it took a little bit of time getting used to the controls, but they're pretty smooth. Nothing feels too imbalanced - every character is an absolute breeze to control. Even if you do derail, A. it doesn't take long for you to get back to what you were doing, and B. the derailments are really funny. The engines just go flying, it's amazing. And what I like is that every character has a different speed, like how bigger engines like James or Gordon can go past 100mph or how smaller characters like Thomas or Diesel max out at 75mph. Top that up with some fun rolling stock combinations and you get a pretty fun line. It's a neat feature and I like how each character plays different...which reminds me.
Let's cap this off by talking about the story scenarios. There's a blend of stories based off the Railway Series stories and original stories, all narrated by Mark Moraghan. And each one plays in a unique way. These scenarios are really fun, but if I had to name a favorite, I'd have to say James and the Van. Not only does it play really well, but it's such a funny concept, James being forced to bring a van with him on his passenger run. My one nitpick is that some of them can get a little repetitive, particularly when they're on Thomas' branch line. Go to a station, load passengers, go to the next station, rinse and repeat. There are some that mix it up, but after a while, they do start to blend together. This doesn't detract anything, however, but I do wish there was a bit more variety.
Overall, Wonders of Sodor is not only a great video game, but the perfect Thomas game. Is there room for improvement? Sure, but this game is a Thomas fan's dream. If you're an avid Thomas fan and gamer, or if you're just curious, then this is a must-play. And with that, this game was very close to a perfect 5, but I'm giving this game a 4.5/5.
Final Rating: 4.5/5
