At it's 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 "free play" 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 pre-defined 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. It's 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 & Carlisle the semaphore signals change with a satisfying "clank". 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. Don't 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 Marias...