Welcome to the AF Death Train Wiki Updated for January 2026

Death Train Game Mechanics

Understanding the core gameplay systems and mechanics of Death Train.

Auto-Firing Units

Most units you place will target and fire at zombies automatically. This allows you to focus on strategy and resource management rather than manual targeting.

  • Units automatically target the nearest enemies
  • Different units have different attack speeds and ranges
  • Placement on train cars affects engagement time
  • Units prioritize enemies based on proximity

The Core (Gem) System

The primary objective is to prevent zombies from reaching and damaging the Gem located on your train. The Gem system is central to progression.

Gem Health

Each Gem upgrade increases its health, allowing you to survive longer and take more damage.

Unit Unlocks

Upgrading the Gem unlocks the ability to purchase and place more advanced units. Higher Gem levels = better unit access.

Progression Gate

The Gem acts as a progression gate - you must upgrade it to access endgame units like Lightning Cannon.

Unit Aggro System

Zombies will prioritize attacking your buildings and units first before going for the Gem. This creates strategic opportunities.

  • Use non-essential structures to bait zombie attacks
  • Place defensive structures further away to distract enemies
  • This gives your main damage-dealers more time to eliminate threats
  • Strategic placement can significantly improve survival chances

Halt Mechanic

Wave Progression

Halting the train pauses wave progression, allowing you to explore, loot, or participate in events.

5-Wave Rule

You can only halt after completing 5 consecutive waves without stopping. This prevents AFK farming.

Personal Chasers

Halting for too long spawns Personal Chasers - powerful zombies that target you specifically.

Cash Penalty

Cash earnings during halts are restricted to 5-20% of your performance to prevent exploitation.

Economy System

Gold Generation

Killing zombies earns you gold, which is used to buy units, upgrade the Gem, and purchase crates.

Crates

You can buy crates for 150 gold. These contain random items or units of varying rarities (Blue, Purple, Gold).

Upgrade Costs

Both units and the Gem have upgrade costs that scale with level. Plan your economy accordingly.

Multiplayer - Joining Friends

How to Join a Friend's Train

Death Train supports multiplayer gameplay where friends can join your train and play together.

Steps to Join:

  1. Go towards the train of the person online you want to join
  2. An icon with 2 pistols will appear at the back of the car
  3. The icon will say "JOIN RIDE"
  4. Press E (or whatever key it prompts) to join

Multiplayer Benefits

  • Work together to defend the train
  • Share resources and strategies
  • Easier to handle difficult waves
  • More fun with friends!