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Train Sim World 4 is the perfect title for train enthusiasts. This realistic experience manages to improve on last year’s iteration. Consequently, if you are a fan of the franchise, you’ll adore every aspect of this new endeavour.
This ultra-realistic simulation title was published and developed by Dovetail Games. Moreover, it has some incredible customisation options and a lively and enthusiastic community. Accordingly, there are some weird and whacky liveries available in the CREATORS CLUB.
What edition of Train Sim World 4 to buy?
Available as a standard or deluxe edition, Train Sim World 4 treats those fans who invest in the latter option. Though the standard edition is fantastic, you miss out on the excitement of driving the Flying Scotsman. This iconic train is the key reason to buy the deluxe edition! Furthermore, there are some bits and pieces that sweeten the deal. Subsequently, if you love trains, I suggest the deluxe edition.
Though there is no story to talk about, there are plenty of things to see and do. Furthermore, you are free to drive any route with any train you like. However, I would have loved an in-depth story that paralleled a driver’s career. Now, I’m not talking about “Strike Day” simulator. Instead, it would have been pleasant to see a progression from branch lines to mainline or from freight to passenger service. Additionally, a focus on the everyday risks and challenges a driver faces would have created a rounded experience.
Follow the scenarios or go it alone.
If you’ve never driven a train, or you haven’t played its predecessors, you may worry about a steep learning curve. Thankfully, this isn’t the case. The developer has done an incredible job with its tutorial and accessibility options. Moreover, the bite-sized scenarios hold your interest without overcomplicating the matter. As such, you’ll become an expert in driving an array of trains in no time.
On top of this, the game does a great job of explaining trackside fundamentals and how the infrastructure works. Accordingly, you’ll familiarise yourself with the line side signage and signalling equipment you encounter.
The pièce de résistance has to be the free roam mode. The ability to choose any train and any available route was incredible. Alongside this, you are free to set the route as you like. As such, you are in complete control of every journey you take. This freedom isn’t exclusive to just mainline driving. Instead, you can enjoy the slow and serene life of a depot driver. With miles of track to play with and oodles of point work to pull, you are free to shunt, couple and uncouple as much as you like.
Custom liveries, scenario planner, and character progression.
Train enthusiasts love a unique livery. Consequently, though this simple feature is almost meaningless, it lets your creative juices flow. Designing a unique livery or a classic look from a bygone era never got old. Sadly, though, I can’t say the same for the character progression mechanics. For reasons unknown, your protagonist gains XP and levels up. Furthermore, the trains you drive will level up as well. Yet, this makes no difference to the gameplay, and there is no skill tree. Consequently, it is a pointless mechanic that shouldn’t be present.
On the other hand, the scenario planner was an excellent tool. This wonderful option enables you to create unusual events and one-off situations. Additionally, there is a sense of role play, as you can create a meaningful scenario. On top of this, you can make the drive as easy or as challenging as you like. As such, you can take a steam train on a charter journey or endure the pain of a stopper service with a rundown DMU.
Train Sim World 4 is impressive to look at.
A simulation game has to be realistic. However, visually, they are normally rough. Luckily, Train Sim World 4 doesn’t suffer this fate! The developers have worked hard to create an ultra-realistic space that reflects a real-life railway. On top of this, the weather fronts, animation, and feel of the game are mind-blowing. Train Sim World 3 was incredible. However, this takes it to a whole new level. The gauges, movement of the wheels, the plumes of smoke and the cabs are simply outstanding. Alongside this, I loved how the weather reduces visibility and the claustrophobic nature of the driving cab.
The realism continues with the incredible audio. The amazing soundscape is awe-inspiringly brilliant. Every bell, buzzer, and warning sound is accurate. Furthermore, the clatter of your wheels on the rails, the toot of your horn, or the howl of the wind were perfect. As such, this is an atmospheric title that is as close to the real thing as you’ll ever get.
Surprisingly easy to play.
With so many trains on offer, you’d expect this to be a nightmare to play. However, the incredible tutorials and bite-sized scenarios ensure this is simple to play. Yet, mastering the art of driving is no easy task. Consequently, it’ll take hours of cab time to perfect every stop and learn every route.
Train Sim World 4 oozes replay value and longevity. The roster of trains and routes at your disposal was impressive. Moreover, the ability to create scenarios and liveries will appease its many fans. However, this is still a niche title and this will restrict its appeal.
Train Sim World 4 is the best train-driving game yet.
Dovetail Games has done an amazing job with this latest instalment. They have listened to their community and addressed several minor complaints. What’s more, the improved weather fronts and rendering distances add to the realism. Though this won’t be for everyone, if you adore trains, you’ll love every second. Accordingly, I enjoyed it and I recommend that you buy it here! Grab your master key, get in the hot seat, and drive the world-famous Flying Scotsman.
