Real-world map data is helping make better games about farms and transportation
Real-world map data is helping make better games about farms and transportation
Real-world map data is helping make better games about farms and transportation
Jay Castello
May, 25, 2025
Summary
City Bus Manager uses real-world OpenStreetMap (OSM) data to simulate public transportation in players’ actual cities, creating a strong emotional connection and sense of responsibility. Similar games like Global Farmer and NIMBY Rails use OSM to allow players to manage farms or rail systems in familiar locations. While the realism fosters interest in real-world infrastructure and even public transport careers, OSM data can be incomplete or inaccurate, requiring community fixes or in-game tools. These games blend reality and simulation, offering players both creative control and deeper engagement with issues like transit policy, urban planning, and environmental sustainability — even through play.
Reference
Castello, J. (2025, May 25). Real-world map data is helping make better games about farms and transportation. The Verge. https://www.theverge.com/games/672035/openstreetmap-data-games