Cheats

At its simplest level Train Simulator can be used as an

interactive screensaver one of the first options is the

ability to take a virtual tour on any of the lines with the

AI driving the train Tutorials are included for the novice

user to assist in learning how to operate steam diesel and

electric locos However the bread and butter of Train Simulator comes in actually driving or operating trains as the virtual engineer On selecting a route you are given an option to explore in quotfree playquot mode though this is still subject to speed restrictions etc In practice this is not always easy as every time you approach a set of facing points you need to choose which leg of the turnout you take This can lead you up a dead end spur or siding Also in explore the route there are no AI trains as the dispatcher is inactive Each route comes with a number of predefined activities or work orders Depending on the route these might be passenger or freight operations and in addition to driving the train you may also be required to switch cars in or out at locations along the way pick up or drop off helper engines etc This is so much more than in previous simulations and adds to the sense that Train Simulator is a complete virtual railroading experience All the routes apart from the Kalispell branch on Marias Pass are fully signalled according to the rules and era of the particular railway and under control of the aforementioned AI

dispatcher Its quite something to arrive on a crossing loop

with a train waiting on the opposite track As you draw in clear the signal for the other train changes to proceed and it departs On the Settle amp Carlisle the semaphore signals change with a satisfying quotclankquot Whether driving steam diesel or electric traction each type

presents its own challenge Steam locos are the most demanding particularly if you switch off the AI fireman and attend to the boiler and fire yourself The workload this creates is very tough leaving little time for sightseeing but ultimately more rewarding than just letting the computer take care of things Dont forget to switch the blower on before entering tunnels or stopping though or you will end up well done to crispy when the fire blows back My only comment about the steam locos is that acceleration seems a little brisk at times at least compared to what I have experienced travelling behind steam Diesel is quite a bit easier to handle but on Marias160

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