Manifest Unknown is a Narratively Driven Train Simulator following Brenda, our new train engineer, on her journey with Union Central Railroad. She can only count on her experience and our train master on the other side of the radio to guide her through the hardship of train delivery and mail service.

The work is quite simple: follow instructions, drive from station to station to drop off and pick up new cargo, handle the mailing service, get paid, and make sure that your family get the money they need to thrive. If you do so promptly, you can even get some extra money and be able to get everything you've ever wanted on that new incredible machine, so let's not waste any time!

Let's all be understanding and pragmatic here, even if around the corner you encounter some detail that doesn't sound right. There's no reason for you to waste your time looking into it. We have it under control, and there's a saying about curiosity and cats... Besides, I've heard your family is counting on you.

Mail Sorting: Take some time on your journey to pick up some mail, handle sorting it all without snooping, of course, and don't forget to deliver it all to the right station.

Cargo Delivery: To ensure proper hygiene and cleanliness standards are maintained, you are restricted from accessing the cargo area. Railroad employees will load and unload your cargo at each stop, leaving more time for you to sort mail or pursue leisure activities. No need to wander where you're not supposed to and risk your security. We want what's best for you

Leisure Time: Union Central encourages its employees to balance the rigours of a demanding day with leisure time. You have plenty of time on your journey between stations to explore, listen to the radio, keep up with personal correspondence, pick up a book, or just enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Compensation: We're glad to have you on board with us at the great Union Central family, and we want to reward you for your work, assiduity, and for following the rules. At the end of every contract, you will be paid your agreed-upon base salary. For work that is done accurately and on schedule, larger bonuses will be awarded. Like that, you can make sure your family is well taken care of and afford that pristine new furnace, making your delivery even smoother.

Now, let's talk about the engine a bit... Let's make it quick, so we still get to the next station on time, right?

The Train:

Control Access: The Brake, Reverser, and Regulator are accessible from inside the locomotive and through the windows on each side.

Water: You're running on a Steam engine; the water needs to be filled at the water towers before you run out to keep moving at a reasonable pace. Those towers are accessible through the 3rd-person camera as well for easier access.

Coal: Your coal, just like water, needs to be checked and shovelled from time to time to keep everything running smoothly. No need to refill it, but make sure that nothing gets jammed and the fire is well-fed.

Options

Camera: The train can be driven in 1st person from the perspective of the engineer or viewed from outside the train in 3rd person.

Immersive Mode: Speed and resources can be toggled on the interface, or simply look at the literal gauge to see the train's state.

Planification: Before every new contract, the route needs to be planned to inform your train master of the path you'll follow. During the journey, you can call on the radio to request it to be changed.

Infinite mode* (Forum FAQ for details)

Delivery

Bonus: Every delivery made promptly deserves a bonus just as much as taking good care of your locomotive.

Penalty: Being late or equipment breakage will result in your pay being docked.

Time management: Managing your time between delivery, mailing services, exploration, and leisure is important. Your priorities depend on your goal and needs.