Good news for simulation fans: Bus Bound, the latest driving title from the creators of Bus Simulator 21 and Bus Simulator 18, has launched a new single-player demo as part of Steam Next Fest. Published by Saber Interactive and developed by stillalive studios, this isn’t just about driving; it’s about transforming the fictional city of Emberville into a public transit paradise.
More Than Just a Commute
Bus Bound takes players beyond the typical driving simulation by weaving a persistent city improvement mechanic into the core gameplay loop. While players will take the wheel of officially licensed American buses—such as the New Flyer Xcelsior 40ft CNG and the Blue Bird Sigma—their duties extend far past the bus stop.
In the fully simulated, vibrant city of Emberville, every successful run contributes to a larger goal: upgrading bus stops, unlocking new routes, and watching each district evolve into a more vibrant, pedestrian-friendly space. The game features a dynamic day/night cycle and multiple weather conditions, ensuring that the driving challenge is ever-changing.
What’s Included in the Steam Next Fest Demo
The currently available single-player demo offers a solid preview of the game’s mechanics and atmosphere. Players can:
- Explore Ashtree: Master the flow of traffic through Emberville’s first district across morning, afternoon, and nighttime shifts.
- Drive Two Licensed Buses: Get behind the wheel of the Bluebird Sigma and the New Flyer Excelsior Clean Diesel to test their unique handling and features. The full game is slated to launch with 17 buses.
- Earn Progression Rewards: Successful service earns goodwill with riders, unlocking new stops, upgrades, and customization options like new color palettes and liveries.
Co-op and Release Details
While the current Steam Next Fest demo is a single-player experience, the official release is confirmed to feature online co-op multiplayer for up to four players. This allows friends to team up, tackle simultaneous routes, and collaboratively work toward the goal of transforming Emberville.
Bus Bound is currently listed as “Coming soon” on Steam with a projected full release in 2026. The game will launch on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.
You can download the Bus Bound Steam Next Fest demo today and wishlist the game ahead of its full release.