Train Simulator Classic

Buchan Line: Aberdeen – Peterhead launched on December 11, 2025, introducing players to a section of the old Formartine and Buchan Railway. This update was complemented by the addition of the 060-EA Electric Locomotive on July 2, 2026, featuring detailed in-cab signaling and safety systems, along with the announcement of the C&S Alpine Tunnel Route on June 4, 2026, which spans approximately 22 miles.

• New Routes:
  • Longhai Railway: Lingbao – Mianchi released on May 21, 2026, showcasing a scenic 105 km electrified section.
  • Norfolk Southern Saluda Grade added a challenging 70-mile route from Asheville to Spartanburg, featuring a steep 4.7% grade.
  • Chatham Main Line Route launched on October 23, 2025, connecting London Victoria to Ramsgate and Dover over 130 miles.

• Scenario Packs:
  • Burlington Northern Scenario Pack 01 and 02 released on February 26 and April 30, 2026, respectively, with ten realistic scenarios based on Burlington Northern operations.
  • CSX Scenario Pack 03 introduced ten new scenarios for the B&O Mountain Subdivision on October 30, 2025.

• New Locomotives:
  • The ND5-II Diesel Locomotive was introduced on May 21, 2026, featuring realistic operational capabilities.
  • The China Railways ND5 Locomotive became available on February 9, 2026, designed for the Longhai Railway.

• New Scenarios:
  • Players received new scenarios for the Konstanz – Villingen Route on July 2, 2026, to test the 060-EA locomotive.
  • A variety of scenarios were added in existing routes, including a Heavy Coal Train Scenario and Local Freight Switching Duties Scenario on October 30, 2025.

Pipestone Pass: Three Forks – Butte Route launched on January 30, 2025, introducing a breathtaking 70-mile stretch through the Montana Rockies, marking a significant addition to Train Simulator Classic. This update also featured the new core package released on May 19, 2025, which included iconic routes from the UK, USA, and Germany, enhancing the variety available to players.

• New Routes:
  • Norfolk Southern Saluda Grade Route: A challenging 70-mile route from Asheville to Spartanburg, known for its steep 4.7% grade.
  • Chatham Main Line: A commuter route connecting London Victoria & Blackfriars to Dover & Ramsgate, extending over 130 miles.
  • Konstanz – Villingen Route: A scenic inter-city rail connection spanning more than 90 kilometers between Konstanz and Villingen.
  • Upcoming Route Add-on: A new route from Amsterdam to Hilversum is currently in development.

• New Locomotives and Equipment:
  • CR400AF Locomotive: A high-speed passenger train released on April 4, 2025, featuring scenarios for two high-speed routes.
  • DB BR143 V.2 Loco Pack: Launched on January 17, 2025, this pack offered high detail and realistic operations on the Frankfurt – Koblenz route.
  • Electro-Motive GP9 Diesel Road-Switcher: Introduced on January 30, 2025, available in various liveries.
  • Milwaukee Road Electric Motors: Featured in the Pipestone Pass route, including General Electric boxcab electric motors.

• Career Scenarios: Eight career scenarios were added, focusing on Milwaukee Road freight operations across the new route.

• Core Package Changes: The core package now includes increased third-party content, showcasing routes and locomotives developed by external creators.

Ringbahn Berlin Circle DLC launched on March 7, 2024, introducing a modern S-Bahn route with detailed recreations of Berlin. This period also saw the Train Simulator Classic 2024 Release, which offered a robust collection of routes and locomotives, and the Feather River Canyon Enhanced Route, which expanded upon a popular route with new scenarios and equipment.

• Major Content Drops:
  • Ringbahn Berlin Circle DLC released on March 7, 2024.
  • Feather River Canyon Enhanced Route launched on February 15, 2024, featuring new locomotives and an expanded route.
  • Train Simulator Classic 2024 Release on June 27, 2024, included five routes across five countries and over 450 km of rails.

• New Content:
  • Train Simulator Classic 2024 introduced five authentic routes and 12 locomotives on May 21, 2024.
  • Deluxe Edition Features added on May 2, 2024, included three new locomotives and exclusive scenarios.
  • Southern Railway Retro Pack released on November 30, 2023, featuring historic gameplay for the Saluda Grade route.

• New Gameplay Mechanics:
  • An optional Rail Subscription launched on May 31, 2024, providing access to the base game and 39 DLCs.
  • Ten New Career Scenarios were introduced on February 15, 2024, offering varied gameplay experiences based on Western Pacific operations.

• Seasonal Events:
  • The Festival of Rail 2024 event began on February 2, 2024, featuring discounts and live streams.
  • The 15th Anniversary Stream on June 10, 2024, celebrated the game's legacy with gameplay showcases and giveaways.

• Balance Changes:
  • Authentic Route Speed Limits were implemented on February 15, 2024, enhancing realism by reflecting 1970s operational standards.

Saluda Grade: Asheville – Spartanburg Route launched on August 17, 2023, marking a significant addition to Train Simulator Classic with a 70-mile stretch of challenging terrain. This update also included the Deluxe Edition, which debuted on April 27, 2023, featuring refreshed routes and the Tokyo Commuter DLC, which brought bustling commuter operations in Tokyo.

• New Routes:
  • Glasgow to Dunblane and Alloa Route released on September 14, 2023, with unique driving experiences.
  • Pegnitztalbahn: Nürnberg - Bayreuth launched on February 9, 2023, featuring 93 km of track and 17 intermediate stations.
  • Taurus Mountains Route was added on November 18, 2022, showcasing a 125 km route in Turkey.
• New Locomotives:
  • Class 385 Electric Multiple Units introduced on September 14, 2023, featuring advanced Train Protection and Warning Systems.
  • New Zealand Kb Class Locomotive added on February 10, 2023, celebrating the centenary of New Zealand’s Alpine Railway.

• Gameplay Enhancements:
  • Dynamic 'Car Stop' Boards were added on September 14, 2023, rewarding players for accurate train stops.
  • Authentic Operating Procedures were implemented for the Saluda Grade, replicating real-world challenges.

• Balance Changes:
  • The Smokebox Locos Injector Values were updated on August 31, 2023, to fix core code issues impacting performance.

• Seasonal Events:
  • The Festival Of Rail event occurred from February 2-6, 2023, offering discounts on a wide range of add-ons.
  • A Railfan TV Stream celebrated the 'Big Four' anniversary on June 21, 2023, showcasing iconic steam locomotives.

Smokebox Union Pacific Heavy Challenger DLC launched on July 28, 2022, bringing detailed locomotives and various livery options to Train Simulator Classic. This window also introduced the Long Island Rail Road route and the Glasgow Subway, adding significant gameplay depth and new experiences for players.

• Major Content Drops:
  • Smokebox Union Pacific Heavy Challenger DLC launched on July 28, 2022, featuring the 4-6-6-4 Union Pacific Heavy Challenger and customizable details.
  • Train Simulator Classic officially launched on April 21, 2022, with three routes, including the new Leipzig – Riesa Route Extension.
  • Marias Pass DLC became available on December 23, 2021, showcasing stunning scenery through the Rocky Mountains.
• New Routes and Content:
  • Long Island Rail Road Route released on July 15, 2022, featuring over 45 miles of track and 30 stations from NYC to Hicksville.
  • Glasgow Subway launched on April 28, 2022, providing an immersive subway experience.
  • Chatham Main Line released on December 17, 2021, offering a scenic route from London Victoria to Ramsgate and Dover.

• Gameplay Improvements:
  • A Dynamic Weather System was introduced on August 9, 2022, enhancing realism.
  • A New Training Center Feature launched on August 9, 2022, allowing players to learn locomotive operations.

• Balance Changes:
  • Major updates included a signaling overhaul on May 23, 2022, improving realism across various routes.
  • Updates and fixes were rolled out across all routes featured in Train Simulator Classic on April 21, 2022.

• Seasonal Events:
  • The March Madness Event ran from March 15, 2022, featuring significant discounts and Railfan TV broadcasts.

Train Simulator Explorer Collection launched on August 20, 2021, offering a selection of popular Dovetail Games routes at a reduced price. This followed the release of the South Devon Main Line DLC on June 3, 2021, which provided players with a scenic route through the Devonian countryside. Notably, the Tehachapi Pass Route debuted on June 29, 2021, recreating a historic line in California and adding significant content to the game.

• New Routes:
  • Tehachapi Pass Route (June 29, 2021): A 68-mile route from Mojave to Bakersfield, California.
  • South Devon Main Line (June 3, 2021): A route featuring approximately 100 miles of iconic Devonian countryside.
  • Birmingham Cross City Line (March 16, 2021): Covers 37 miles from Lichfield Trent Valley to Bromsgrove & Redditch.
  • Bahnstrecke Riesa - Dresden (February 14, 2021): Features fast and slow lines for various services.
  • Northeast Corridor: Washington DC - Baltimore (December 22, 2020): Recreates the corridor with various Amtrak equipment.

• New Content Additions:
  • BR Class 323 EMU (March 16, 2021): Introduced a modern commuter train.
  • Additional routes added on August 20, 2021, including Norfolk Southern N-Line, South Western Main Line, LGV: Marseille - Avignon, and Norddeutsche-Bahn: Kiel - Lübeck.

• Improved Features: Enhanced Steam Workshop features improved scenario discovery without leaving the game.

• Performance Enhancements: Various optimizations were made, including fixes for lighting issues and improved rendering performance across multiple train models.

• Visual Improvements: Minor enhancements were made to platform presentations and textures at various stations, improving overall visual fidelity.

Train Simulator 2021 Deluxe Edition launched on September 8, 2020, introducing the West Coast Main Line South route from London Euston to Birmingham. This year also saw the release of several significant DLCs, including the Battle For Sherman Hill and Great British Railway Journeys, adding a wealth of new locomotives and routes to explore.

• Major DLC Releases:
  • Battle For Sherman Hill launched on May 14, 2020, featuring iconic Union Pacific locomotives like the Big Boy and Challenger.
  • Great British Railway Journeys became available on March 6, 2020, offering five routes and over 350 miles of gameplay.
  • Train Simulator 2021 Deluxe Edition launched on September 8, 2020, with the West Coast Main Line South route included.

• New Routes and Locomotives:
  • Engadin Linie Route released on June 25, 2020, featuring the RhB GE 6/6 II locomotive.
  • Frankfurt - Koblenz Route released on August 27, 2020, connecting Köln to Frankfurt.
  • London Marylebone - Aylesbury Route became available on December 19, 2019, covering 78 miles of main lines.

• Gameplay Enhancements:
  • Improved Steam Workshop Functionality launched on September 8, 2020, allowing easier access to community-created scenarios.
  • New Visual Filters and Enhanced Visual Controls were added on September 19, 2019, providing players with more options for visual customization.

• New Locomotive Additions:
  • The BR Class 89 ‘Badger’ became available on March 19, 2020, adding a unique electric locomotive to the roster.
  • The Union Pacific SD9043MAC was introduced on November 21, 2019, expanding the U.S. locomotive options.

• Discount Promotions:
  • A 10% discount on the Wasatch Grade Route was available on September 26, 2019, encouraging players to explore new content.

Train Simulator 2019 launched on October 11, 2018, introducing both 32-bit and 64-bit editions, marking a significant upgrade for returning players. The year also saw the release of multiple DLCs, including the Gotthardbahn Alpine Classic and the LMS Stanier Class 8F, along with new routes and enhancements that expanded gameplay possibilities.

• New Routes:
  • Frankfurt S-Bahn Rhein Main Route launched on October 25, 2018, featuring 28 stations across a 60 km network.
  • Südbahn: Bruck an der Mur - Maribor became available on June 27, 2019, connecting communities through a picturesque mountainous corridor.
  • Norfolk Southern N-Line Route and Guiguang High Speed Railway: Guilin - Hezhou were added, bringing diverse settings for players to explore.
• DLC Releases:
  • Notable DLCs included the DB BR 204 on August 22, 2019, and the ÖBB 1293 Loco Add-On on April 15, 2019, enhancing the variety of locomotives available.
  • Inselbahn: Stralsund to Sassnitz Route released on April 23, 2019, adding a scenic route featuring the island of Rügen.

• Gameplay Enhancements:
  • A New Journey System was introduced, providing over 24 hours of gameplay across various routes.
  • Action Point Scoring and Post-Scenario Performance Analysis were added on July 16, 2019, rewarding player accuracy and analyzing performance.

• Visual and Audio Improvements:
  • Enhanced visual realism options, including ambient light and sunlight strength, were implemented on September 9, 2019.
  • Improved sound effects for bell and chuffing sounds were also introduced, enhancing immersion.

• Seasonal Event:
  • The Chatham Main Line Free Weekend Celebration on June 13, 2019, allowed players to experience the Chatham Main & Medway Valley Line for free, attracting new and returning players alike.

Train Simulator 2018 launched on November 16, 2017, introducing a wealth of new routes and features, including the highly detailed Konstanz-Villingen Route. The East Coast Main Line Modern: York - Peterborough DLC followed on April 6, 2018, bringing modern rail experiences to players with freight and high-speed services.

• Major DLC Releases:
  • East Coast Main Line Modern: York - Peterborough launched on April 6, 2018, featuring a modern rail experience with multiple service types.
  • Woodhead Electric Railway in Blue released on February 27, 2018, offering new routes and historical traction.
  • Peninsula Corridor: San Francisco - Gilroy Route became available on December 20, 2017, expanding the California rail experience.
  • Alaska Railroad: Anchorage - Seward Route Add-On debuted on October 12, 2017, including scenic routes and operational challenges.

• New Features:
  • Train Simulator 64-bit was introduced on August 14, 2018, addressing community requests for better performance.
  • Career Mode was added on November 16, 2017, allowing players to take on the role of a virtual train driver.

• New Routes and Locomotives:
  • The Bernina Pass Route was introduced on August 14, 2018, featuring stunning Swiss landscapes.
  • New locomotives like the Norfolk Southern C39-8 and DB BR 612 became available, enhancing gameplay variety.

• Gameplay Enhancements:
  • Direct Traffic Control operations were authentically implemented for the Alaska Railroad on October 12, 2017.
  • Updates improved locomotive driving controls and introduced advanced mode features for certain trains.

• Balance Changes:
  • Brake efforts for various locomotives were increased on January 11, 2018, improving realism in gameplay.
  • Various fixes were made to ensure smoother gameplay, including passenger view improvements for the Class 375.

London Transport Heritage Pack and the Mittenwaldbahn: Garmisch-Partenkirchen - Innsbruck DLCs launched during this period, significantly enhancing the Train Simulator Classic experience. Players gained access to iconic routes and classic traction, making this a notable year for content additions.

• New Routes:
  • South West China High Speed Network introduced over 570 km of rapid inter-city travel.
  • Peninsula Corridor Route featured the Caltrain commuter rail line from San Francisco to San Jose.
  • Wutachtalbahn: Lauchringen – Immendingen showcased scenic railway experiences.
• Major DLC Releases:
  • London Transport Heritage Pack included classic traction like the 1938 Tube Stock and GWR 5700 Class.
  • Sacramento Northern: Suisun Bay – San Francisco added a new interurban route.
  • Aerotrain Streamlined Train Add-On offered a unique lightweight diesel streamliner.

• Gameplay Enhancements:
  • Introduced new features like dynamic pantograph height for the Allegra EMU and improved speed control smoothing.
  • Added working horn and sander buttons, enhancing the realism of locomotive operation.

• Balance Changes:
  • Rewritten throttle physics and reworked brake performance were implemented to better match prototypes, improving overall gameplay realism.

• Visual and Audio Improvements:
  • Enhanced rendering of Interurban rolling stock and improved chuffing sounds at high speeds for a more immersive experience.

Train Simulator 2017 launched on September 15, 2016, marking a major update that introduced new routes and locomotives. This update included the addition of four new real-world routes such as Vogelfluglinie and North Jersey Coast Line. Notably, the California Zephyr DLC also released in June 2016, featuring eight unique car types and authentic diesel power.

• New Routes:
  • Springfield Line: Springfield – New Haven introduced a 62-mile route featuring the 1950s New Haven Railroad.
  • Feather River Canyon Route: This route recreated the Western Pacific main line, bringing historical accuracy to the game.
  • Berlin - Leipzig Route: A high-speed route with historical upgrades now available.

• New Locomotives:
  • The DB BR 218, TGV® Duplex, and Arriva Trains Wales Class 175 were among the new locomotives added with the 2017 update.
  • ScotRail Class 68 and GWR Star Class locomotives also became available, enhancing the game's roster.

• Gameplay Enhancements:
  • The game introduced Steam Workshop Integration for community-created content, allowing players to download and share scenarios.
  • A new Quick Drive Menu System provided flexible driving options, making it easier for players to choose routes and trains.

• Physics Overhaul:
  • The in-game physics and handling were significantly improved, resulting in a more realistic driving experience.
  • The acceleration and braking dynamics were completely rewritten for better realism.

• New Features:
  • The Driver Assists System and Railfan Mode were introduced, helping players capture scenes and master their driving skills.