Key Highlights
- Explore three brand-new, detailed routes in the base game, including the iconic West Coast Main Line from London to Milton Keynes.
- Step out of the driver’s cab and experience the new Conductor Mode, where you check tickets and manage passenger duties.
- Seamlessly connect your journeys with the innovative Route Hopping feature, linking compatible routes for extended gameplay.
- Drive a fresh fleet of locomotives, from high-speed tilting trains in Germany to biofuel-powered engines in Los Angeles.
- Unleash your creativity with returning features like the Livery Designer and Scenario Planner, supported by the Creators Club.
- Dovetail Games introduces a Free Starter Pack, making it easier than ever for new players to join the Train Sim World community.
Introduction
All aboard for the next stop in virtual railroading! Train Sim World 5 has pulled into the station, marking the latest annual release from developer Dovetail Games. For fans of the train sim genre, this new installment promises a wealth of content, from fresh routes to innovative gameplay mechanics. But with Train Sim World 4 still fresh on the tracks, you might be asking: is this fifth iteration a necessary ticket to buy? Whether you’re a seasoned operator or a newcomer to the sim world, let’s find out if this journey is right on schedule.
Evolution of the Train Sim World Series
The Train Sim World series has become a staple for simulation enthusiasts, with each yearly release aiming to refine and expand the experience. What started as a promising train sim has evolved into a substantial platform, boasting a massive library of routes and locomotives that span the globe.
With each new game, Dovetail Games has layered on new features and visual enhancements, taking players on the next journey of realism. Train Sim World 5 continues this tradition, building on a solid foundation to offer both familiar comforts and exciting new ways to play. Let’s look at how the series got here and what this latest entry adds.
A Brief History of Train Sim World Games
The Train Sim World franchise has steadily grown since its inception, carving out a significant space in the simulation genre. Developed by Dovetail Games, the series initially struggled to find its footing with PC players, who were accustomed to the long-standing Train Simulator Classic. The initial release of Train Sim World offered a new engine and graphics but had limited content.
However, the decision to bring the train sim to consoles proved pivotal. This move expanded the audienceand, according to the developers, was crucial for the franchise’s survival. It created a new, dedicated community that has supported the game’s growth through multiple iterations.
From those early days, each new version has added more routes, trains, and features, transforming Train Sim World into the comprehensive and sprawling hobby it is today. This constant evolution has been key to its success, paving the way for the ambitious features introduced in TSW5.
How Train Sim World 5 Builds Upon Its Predecessors
Train Sim World 5 isn’t just a simple content update; it introduces several new features that meaningfully change the gameplay. While veterans will recognize the core experience, this installment offers a new way to interact with the sim world. The most significant additions are designed to deepen immersion and provide fresh challenges.
The introduction of Conductor Mode and Route Hopping, for example, fundamentally alters how you can structure your play sessions. These aren’t just minor tweaks but entirely new gameplay loops. Visually, the game also takes a step forward. While not a revolutionary leap, the enhancements to lighting and weather effects create more dynamic and believable environments.
Ultimately, Train Sim World 5 builds upon the solid framework of its predecessors by refining what works and adding innovative new features. It takes the next journey in the series, aiming to be the most comprehensive and engaging entry yet for both long-time fans and newcomers.
Editions and Release Details
Getting started with Train Sim World 5 is flexible, thanks to several purchasing options offered by Dovetail Games. Whether you want the basic experience or the full suite of launch content, there’s an edition for you. The game is available in Standard, Deluxe, and Special Editions, each offering a different set of routes and trains.
In a first for the series, there is also a Free Starter Pack, designed to give new players a taste of the action without any upfront cost. This approach makes the game more accessible than ever. Let’s break down what you get with each edition and where you can play.
Standard, Deluxe, and Special Editions Explained
Choosing the right edition of Train Sim World 5 depends on how much content you want from day one. The Standard Edition is the base game, including three new routes. The Deluxe Edition expands on this by adding an extra route and locomotive, notably the acclaimed Avanti West Coast Pendolino for the West Coast Main Line.
For the ultimate enthusiast, the Special Edition bundles everything from the Deluxe Edition with additional classic routes and locomotives. A major highlight this year is the Free Starter Pack, which includes the Training Center and four trains, allowing anyone to try the core game. You can then purchase new routes and locos separately.
Here is a simple breakdown of the paid editions:
|
Edition |
Content |
Price (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
|
Standard Edition |
Includes the three core routes: Frankfurt-Fulda, San Bernardino Line, and West Coast Main Line. |
$49.99 / €44.99 / £39.99 |
|
Deluxe Edition |
Includes all Standard Edition content plus the Avanti West Coast Class 390 Pendolino and its route. |
$74.99 / €74.99 / £59.99 |
|
Special Edition |
Includes all Deluxe Edition content plus additional classic routes and trains. |
$119.99 / €119.99 / £104.99 |
Launch Dates and Supported Platforms
Train Sim World 5 launched on September 17, 2024, continuing the series’ tradition of a late-summer release. The video game is widely available across all major gaming platforms, ensuring that console and PC players alike can hop into the driver’s seat. If you purchase the Deluxe or Special Edition, you can often gain early access to the game.
The game is available on the following platforms:
- PC (via Steam and the Epic Games Store)
- PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5
- Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S
One of the big pieces of news for this release is its inclusion on Xbox Game Pass from day one. This allows subscribers to play the Standard Edition of the game at no extra cost, making it incredibly easy for newcomers to try the franchise. You can purchase the game and its DLCs from their respective digital storefronts.
Routes and Locomotives Included at Launch
The heart of any new Train Sim World release is the collection of new routes and trains, and TSW5 delivers a strong lineup. The Standard Edition comes packed with three diverse and engaging routes, spanning the UK, Germany, and the USA. This variety ensures there’s something for every type of railfan, from high-speed passenger services to heavy freight.
For those who opt for the Deluxe Edition or purchase add-ons, the roster expands even further. The new locomotives are incredibly detailed, with some featuring innovative tilting technology for the first time in the series. Let’s take a closer look at the new tracks and rolling stock you’ll be operating.
Featured International Routes
The three core routes in Train Sim World 5 offer distinct environments and operational challenges. Each one is meticulously detailed, capturing the unique character of its real-world counterpart. These locations are considered by some reviewers to be among the best base-game routes in the series’ history.
The included routes are:
- West Coast Main Line: Spanning the 50 miles from London Euston to Milton Keynes, this iconic British route is a fan favorite.
- San Bernardino Line: This 57-mile American route takes you from the bustling metropolis of Los Angeles to San Bernardino, offering scenic and exotic views.
- Kinzigtalbahn: A massive 103km German high-speed route that runs from the major hub of Frankfurt to Fulda.
These routes provide hundreds of services to run on the timetable, offering immense replay value right out of the box. From the commuter-heavy West Coast to the sprawling freight and passenger line in California, there is a ton of variety to explore.
Notable Trains and Rolling Stock
A new set of routes is only half the fun; the trains you’ll be driving are just as important. Train Sim World 5 introduces some highly requested and technically impressive locomotives to the series. The detailing, both inside the cab and on the exterior, is as remarkable as ever.
Some of the standout new trains include:
- Avanti West Coast Class 390 ‘Pendolino’: Available in the Deluxe Edition, this iconic tilting train is a highlight for UK railfans.
- DB BR 403 ‘ICE-T’: Germany’s famous high-speed tilting train makes its debut, letting you bank into corners on the Kinzigtalbahn line.
- Metrolink MP36PH-3C: This biofuel-powered locomotive handles commuter services on the sunny San Bernardino Line.
- British Rail Class 50: A classic British locomotive that adds a touch of vintage diesel power.
Each locomotive feels distinct to operate, so be sure to visit the Training Center to master its controls before heading out on a long run.
Gameplay Experience and Performance
The core gameplay of Train Sim World 5 remains a deeply engaging and authentic simulation. The feeling of commanding a multi-ton machine is as satisfying as ever. However, the overall experience is a mix of impressive enhancements and some lingering technical issues that veterans of the series may find familiar.
While the game is a visual treat, performance isn’t always a smooth ride. Some reviews have noted frame drops and occasional bugs, like signals getting stuck, which can interrupt an otherwise immersive session. Despite these hitches, the accessibility and depth of the sim world are undeniable. Let’s examine the specific improvements and how the game controls.
Visual and Audio Enhancements in TSW5
Visually, Train Sim World 5 is a step up from its predecessors. The game features a noticeable lighting overhaul that, at times, makes the world look almost photorealistic. Watching the sun set over the California landscape or seeing dynamic weather roll in on a German high-speed line adds a tremendous sense of immersion and progression to your journeys.
The new features in the weather system are particularly impressive. Grey clouds gather realistically before unleashing a downpour, and the lighting changes accordingly. These environmental effects are more than just cosmetic; they enhance the feeling of being in a living, breathing world.
Train interiors and exteriors are rendered with incredible detail, right down to the faded seat cushions on older rolling stock. While some critics say it is only a slight graphical upgrade over TSW4, it’s a pleasant and welcome one that pushes the authenticity of the experience even further.
Simulator Physics, Controls, and Accessibility
Don’t let the “simulator” tag intimidate you. Train Sim World 5 is very welcoming to new players. The in-game Training Center is an essential first stop, offering a huge number of tutorials to help you get to grips with the basics and master the controls of each unique locomotive.
The physics and controls are designed to be authentic, meaning each train is a different discipline. You can’t just jump from a modern American diesel to a German electric high-speed train and expect them to handle the same way. This is where the beauty of the sim world lies. Key accessibility features include:
- A comprehensive Training Center with tutorials for every locomotive.
- Helpful on-screen hints and objective markers.
- A gradual learning curve that new players can manage.
This focus on accessibility ensures that anyone can learn to operate these complex machines. At the same time, the depth of the simulation provides a rewarding challenge for veteran drivers.
Exciting New Features in Train Sim World 5
Beyond the new routes and trains, Train Sim World 5 introduces some fantastic new features that offer fresh ways to create your own journey. These additions provide more variety and immersion, moving the series beyond just driving from point A to point B. The most talked-about new features are Conductor Mode and Route Hopping.
These gameplay mechanics have been requested by the community for a long time and are now fully implemented. They allow you to experience the world of trains from a new perspective and seamlessly connect your gameplay sessions for the ultimate rail adventure. Let’s explore how these new modes work.
Route Hopping and Conductor Mode
Conductor Mode is one of the biggest new additions, allowing you to step into new roles on the train. Instead of driving, you can take on the role of a guard, with responsibilities like checking tickets, opening and closing doors, and ensuring passenger safety. This mode offers a pleasant and more relaxed alternative to being in the driver’s cab.
Route Hopping is another game-changing feature. If you own multiple routes that share a common station, you can seamlessly transition between them without returning to the main menu. For example, you can switch from the Cajon Pass route to the new San Bernardino Line at the San Bernardino Depot Station. This allows you to create your own journey across hundreds of miles of track.
Key aspects of these new features include:
- Conductor Mode: Experience the role of a guard on specific services.
- Route Hopping: Connect compatible DLC routes for continuous gameplay.
- Live Map: A new map system helps you fast-travel and plan your extended journeys.
Customization, Weather, and Dynamic Lighting
Creativity and personalization continue to be a core part of the Train Sim World experience. The powerful customization tools from TSW4 make a welcome return, including the Livery Designer and Formation Designer. These tools let you put your personal stamp on your locomotives and share them with the world via the Creators Club.
The game’s enhanced environmental features also contribute to the customization of your experience. You can set up scenarios with specific weather conditions, from bright sunny days to torrential rainstorms, thanks to the new dynamic weather and lighting systems. Combined with the improved Photo Mode, you can capture stunning, photorealistic images of your custom trains in action.
Highlights of these features include:
- Livery Designer: Create custom paint jobs for your trains.
- Scenario Planner: Design your own timetables and operational challenges.
- Dynamic Weather & Lighting: Experience realistic and changing atmospheric conditions.
Community, Mods, and User Content
The Train Sim World community is a vibrant and essential part of the game’s ecosystem. Dovetail Games fosters this through the Creators Club, a central hub for sharing user-generated content. This platform allows players to download liveries and scenarios created by others, adding endless replayability to the game.
While the game doesn’t support third-party mods in the traditional sense, the in-game editing tools provide a powerful and accessible way for players to create and share their own content. The involvement of the community is key, with forums and other online spaces buzzing with discussions and creations.
Official Mod Support and Editing Tools
Train Sim World 5 continues to offer robust, built-in editing tools that serve as the game’s official “mod” support. These tools are integrated directly into the game, making them easy to use for players on all platforms, including consoles. You don’t need any external software to start creating.
The primary editing tools available are:
- Livery Designer: This tool lets you paint your trains with intricate designs.
- Scenario Planner: This feature allows you to craft your own gameplay scenarios, setting up train services, times, and weather.
All creations can be uploaded to the Creators Club, an online, cross-platform hub. This means a livery designed on PC can be downloaded and used by a player on Xbox or PlayStation. This integrated system ensures that all user content is easily accessible to the entire community.
Online Resources and Community Involvement
The Train Sim World community is very active, and there are many online resources available for players. The official Dovetail Games forums are a central hub for discussions, troubleshooting, and sharing feedback directly with the developers. This is a great place to connect with other fans and stay up-to-date on news.
The Creators Club is another vital resource, acting as a massive library of free user content. You can browse thousands of custom liveries and scenarios, ensuring you’ll always have something new to see and do in the game. Developers are also active in the community, with Executive Producer Matt Peddlesden often engaging with players.
He notes the importance of this interaction, stating, “Two innovative trains that feature tilting capability, the Class 390 Pendolino and the DB ICE-T, and the brand-new Conductor Mode make for an entirely new gameplay experience…These, alongside many other awesome features and enhancements give players exciting new things to do.” This highlights how community feedback helps shape the game.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Train Sim World 5 takes the beloved franchise to new heights with its impressive range of features and enhancements. From the visually stunning graphics to the intricate simulation mechanics, this latest installment offers both seasoned players and newcomers an engaging experience. The emphasis on community involvement and official mod support enhances its longevity, ensuring that players can continually expand their journeys within the game. Whether you’re navigating international routes or exploring the immersive gameplay, TSW5 redefines what train simulation can be.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I transfer progress or DLCs from previous versions?
Yes, you can. By claiming the Free Starter Pack for Train Sim World 5 (available for a limited time), you can download TSW5-compatible versions of all the DLC you own from previous games. Your player profile, including medals and service progress, can also be imported into the new game.
Where can I buy Train Sim World 5 and its expansions?
You can purchase Train Sim World 5 digitally on the Steam and Epic Games Store for PC, the PlayStation Store for PS4/PS5, and the Microsoft Store for Xbox. The Standard Edition is also available on Xbox Game Pass. Expansions and different editions like the Deluxe Edition can be bought on these same storefronts.
Is Train Sim World 5 suitable for beginners and returning fans?
Absolutely. Train Sim World 5 is very friendly to new players, thanks to its comprehensive Training Center and helpful tutorials. For returning fans, the new routes, tilting trains, and gameplay modes like Conductor Mode offer fresh challenges and a new discipline to master, making the next journey a worthwhile upgrade.
