Having showcased some excellent transit map design, it’s time to see what happens when it all goes horribly wrong. This monstrosity is the official map – available on the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority’s website – for the light rail system of Buffalo, New York. My eyes hurt.

Have we been there? No.

What we like: It tells us where the trains stop. That is all.

What we don’t like: Where to begin? The hilarious usage of a train symbol at each and every station, just so we don’t forget that trains might run on this light rail system. Uninspired and even downright ugly typography. Dark blue graphics on a dark green background are very hard to see, while red type on that same green background clashes horribly. Finally, the ridiculously over-the-top ornate compass rose puts the finishing touches on a complete disaster. Really, it’s just one line: things shouldn’t be this hard.

Our rating: Ughh. Half a star.

Source: Official NFTA website – map no longer exists