RAILWORKS

TRAINSIMULATOR 

Train Simulator 

Released in September, 2015, this handsome revision to the RailWorks line takes us ever closer to reality. From the web site, "every aspect of Train Simulator 2015 is designed to make the player feel that they are controlling a locomotive in the real world."  Well, it felt that way with RailWorks 2, so we are indeed in for a treat!

In terms of value for dollar spent, this software is well worth the investment. It has many layers, and at a bare minimum, takes us to places we might not otherwise get to. That is what sticks with me, at least.

As a software engineer, I am impressed by the design choices backing up a stable architecture. They leverage the local file system, a powerful hierarchical database within its own right, with binary configuration files exposed to the builder in XML, and combine this with a gorgeous rendering engine. Take a step back, and you realize everything is configurable, and so by its very nature, the product will continually and ever improve so long as there are people who love the rails. Conclude with actual results as compared to other rail modeling engines, and TrainSimulator becomes a symphony, with you, as always, as the Conductor.

CREDITS

In a project such as this, one heartily acknowledges, with warmth and vigor, that one stands upon the shoulders of Titans. Without the dedication, tireless effort, and the good ol' love of the rails of these Fine Folks, this route and its unique content would not be possible.  If you should find I have re-used something without the Author's name appearing below, please let me know so that we may correct this grievous injustice!

TRAINSIMULATOR FORUMS

RailWorks America		American Railroad Concerns		Host: Hawk		Link
TrainSim.com		Virtual Railroad Concerns		Host: Nels Anderson		Link
UK TrainSim		United Kingdom Railroad Concerns		Host: Matt		Link
Rail-Sim.de		German Railroad Concerns		Host: RailSimer		Link
RailSimulator.com		Index of RailSimulator Communities				Link

ARTISTS AND ORACLES

The Grade Crossing		A RailWorks Master, By Example		Author: PapaExpress		Link
The Art of RailWorks		Textures, Shaders, and More!		Author: Derek Siddle		Link
Seattle Sub/Soo Line		A Masterpiece, By Example		Author: eyin12		Link
Virtual New Haven		A Triumph in Realism		Authors: BJ & MS		Link
Rail Road Yard		Home of The King's Arm Highway		Author: Lone Wolf Don		Link
SADRailWorks		Rail Art from The Netherlands		Author: SAD		Link

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

While the author remains an avid life-long train enthusiast, the only engineering degree he possesses relates to computer science. That crippling deficiency aside, the author compensates by drawing on his deep connections to the Mojave Desert in an effort to bring the place to your doorstep without you having to experience the otherwise mostly dreadful weather. Add some heavy industry, and the rails are the best way to accomplish this.

For additional information, please visit the author's web site at jk.tmoa.org.