The Bus is a detailed city bus simulation game set on authentic 1:1 scale routes through Berlin. Players take on the role of a bus driver operating modern vehicles across the city's public transport network, handling everything from passenger boarding and ticket sales to navigating traffic and weather conditions.
Gameplay
Core gameplay centers on realistic bus operation. Drivers follow scheduled routes while managing acceleration, braking, and precise stops at designated points. Passenger interactions include monitoring boarding and alighting flows, selling tickets, and maintaining schedules amid changing conditions like rain or seasonal variations. The simulation emphasizes vehicle handling with options for realistic, arcade, or custom control setups that suit different experience levels.
The Ebus 2.2 DLC expands the fleet with a fully electric city bus available as a 12-meter solo model or 18-meter articulated version. Each comes in multiple door configurations suited to varying route demands. The electric drivetrain delivers a range of up to 600 kilometers depending on the variant, supporting both shorter services and high-demand lines. Capacity reaches up to 150 passengers in the largest configurations. Players can configure exterior and interior elements, choose between classic mirrors or the MirrorEye camera system with dual HD side cameras whose live feeds appear on split-screen monitors in the A-pillar, and use the CornerEye system for improved visibility ahead and alongside the vehicle. Additional features include LED lighting, air conditioning, electric heating with heat pump, USB ports throughout the cabin, and charging via CCS connector.
Game Modes
Freeplay serves as the accessible entry point, letting drivers select any available bus and route for immediate sessions without additional constraints. Economy mode introduces company management elements where players build and operate their own transport business, acquiring vehicles, hiring staff, and handling operational decisions. Multiplayer allows coordinated driving on shared Berlin routes with others, enabling joint service on lines and collaborative route coverage.
Supporting tools include a route, line, and tour editor for creating custom operations. Modding support further extends possibilities for new content and modifications.
The Ebus 2.2 Electric Bus
This addition brings modern electric options to the simulation. The solo 12-meter versions suit standard city lines with two- or three-door layouts, while the articulated 18-meter models handle peak passenger volumes through three- or four-door setups. Real-time camera integration and efficient climate systems reflect current urban bus technology, allowing drivers to experience the operational differences of electric powertrains compared to traditional models.
Is It Worth Playing?
The Bus appeals most to players seeking a focused public transport simulation with realistic driving mechanics and route management. Its mix of single-player free driving, business oversight in Economy mode, and cooperative multiplayer provides varied sessions for both solo and group play. The Ebus 2.2 DLC integrates seamlessly for those interested in electric vehicle operations and high-capacity articulated buses. Ongoing development continues to add features and polish, making it a solid choice for simulation enthusiasts who value depth in vehicle handling and city navigation over arcade-style action. Reception remains generally favorable among fans of the genre, with active updates supporting long-term engagement.
