Train Simulator 2021

Train Simulator 2021 is the updated version of a long running series of sims that put you behind the engine of some of the world’s most iconic trains. You’ll also be able to use some of the most common rail lines and feel like a real engineer in this detailed simulator.

Train Simulator 2021 adds in a new route for players to enjoy, allowing players to move passengers and cargo along the West Coast Mainline South route.

Not very immersive

Although this game certainly has a lot to do, errors in how it is put together ruin the immersive experience right off the bat. The new train station itself is very poorly done. There is little to no lighting in the train stations on the new route, the train station has almost no detail, and there aren’t even any exits for the passengers. If you get off and look around the train station, you’ll have to fall off the edge of the platform if you want to see the grass outside.

Most of the places meant to be iconic are done incorrectly, and even the animations of passengers aren’t well done. Most passengers walk in a weird floaty sort of way above the ground, almost like they’re moon walking rather than visiting the train station. All together these many errors make it hard to enjoy the experience, especially if you are a train fanatic and want to experience familiar places. The good news on this aspect though is it is mainly the new route that has this problem. Older routes from Train Simulator 2020 are still fairly well detailed and look close enough to the actual train stations.

Graphics are terrible

Accuracy of the graphics aside, the trains, backdrops and characters that bring the game to life aren’t especially well done. Some of the trains don’t actually look like the train they are supposed to be, and while this probably won’t bother someone who isn’t a train expert, it’s noticeable to those who genuinely care about trains.

Train interiors are decent

Despite the disappointing look of some of the train stations and the trains themselves, the interior of the trains are actually pretty impressive. Even small details like the shape and color of the seats are well done. As you are looking at the controls, which are extremely accurate, everything bumps along the tracks in the way that is expected, and the train moves in a realistic manner under your controls.

Pros:

• Interiors and older routes are well done

Cons:

• New route was rushed and lacks polish
• Animation of passengers poorly done