Bus Simulator 27 is a vehicle simulation game focused on operating a bus company in the fictional southern European region of Felicia Bay. Players manage routes, drive licensed buses, and handle day-to-day operations across an open world map that includes two cities with 20 districts. The title supports solo play and cooperative sessions with up to four participants through crossplay on Xbox Series consoles and PC.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on building and running a public transport network. Players purchase and assign buses to lines, set timetables, hire drivers, and customize vehicles with wraps and advertisements to generate revenue. Driving involves navigating traffic, responding to in-bus events such as passenger interactions, and managing unexpected situations like accidents on the routes. Dynamic weather and a full day-night cycle affect visibility and road conditions throughout the map.
Additional roles expand the experience beyond the driver seat. Participants can switch to inspector duties to check tickets or ride as a passenger. Exiting the bus allows on-foot exploration of landmarks and collection of hidden items in Felicia Bay. Support for steering wheels and gamepads enhances control precision during extended drives, while PC users gain access to mod.io for community-created content.
Game Modes
Three distinct modes accommodate different preferences. Story mode follows character-driven objectives that introduce contracts and challenges while establishing the bus company. Career mode emphasizes economic management, requiring careful route planning and fleet expansion to meet passenger demand across urban and interurban services. Sandbox mode removes financial constraints, enabling unrestricted driving, route testing, and map exploration with any available bus.
Cooperative multiplayer integrates across all modes, allowing up to four players to coordinate fleet operations and share management tasks in real time.
Content and Expansions
The base game launches with more than 45 officially licensed buses from 13 manufacturers, marking the first inclusion of coach buses for longer-distance routes. The Year 1 Season Pass adds targeted vehicles and packs, including the Mercedes-Benz Intouro, a FlixBus expansion, two bus packs, and two cosmetic packs. These additions increase fleet variety and customization options without altering the fundamental simulation systems.
Is It Worth Playing?
Bus Simulator 27 suits players who enjoy methodical management combined with realistic driving. The three modes provide flexibility for those seeking structured progression, deep economic simulation, or relaxed exploration. Recent release timing means ongoing support through seasonal content like the Year 1 Season Pass, which delivers new buses and visual options. Reception has been mixed due to occasional technical issues at launch, yet the detailed map, licensed fleet, and multiplayer options deliver consistent value for simulation enthusiasts. Those prioritizing bus operation and company building will find the systems rewarding, while players sensitive to early bugs may prefer waiting for patches.