The Rust Above-Ground Trains Update has arrived, adding train cars to the procedurally-generated rails along with a number of other improvements.
Facepunch is continually improving Rust with new additions like military bases or improvements to existing locations. A procedural rail network and ziplines were added to the game in last month's update -- and now, we finally have vehicles that can make use of these rails.
What's New in the Rust Above-Ground Trains Update?
The first major addition in the Rust Above-Ground Trains Update is... well, above-ground trains. (It's right there in the name.) An above-ground version of the Work Cart has been added that's similar to the underground version; the major difference is the addition of coupling points on either end.
The coupling points on the above-ground Work Cart can be used to hook up to one of four train car models. These models don't serve an in-game purpose just yet, but you can run around on them and use them as mobile cover. As with many vehicles, the Work Cart uses low-grade fuel. You can use multiple Work Carts to move heavier loads around faster if needed.
The procedurally-generated rail network has also gotten an upgrade with the addition of "branch lines." The track will now split off onto separate lines at some places and merge back onto it eventually. It's unclear if there will be any dead-end branches as a result, but hey -- that's another good reason to explore the new content!
Facepunch has also made a somewhat uncharacteristic move by making Rust a little less difficult -- the balance for bad weather has been shifted to make it less likely that players will have to suffer through a storm. 90% of days will feature clear weather.
Of course, the devs couldn't resist making things a bit tougher, too. SAM Sites can no longer be damaged with bullets -- you'll need to use explosives (or something similarly hefty) to take them out. You can read about all of the fine details of these new additions (and other improvements) in the full Rust Above-Ground Trains Update patch notes. If you haven't yet jumped into the game, you can buy Rust for PC and consoles starting at $39.99 or your regional equivalent via its official website.
