Train Sim World 3 Review: A first class sim on rails
When it comes to train simulators, none do it better than Dovetail Games. The studio is the name behind the widely popular Train Sim World franchise that has dominated train sim fans' lives ever since the first iteration in 2018. Fast forward down the tracks and Dovetail Games are back again with its third instalment and what could be the best train simulator yet.
Similar to previous editions, the base game ships with a handful of trains and routes. Train Sim World 3 is no different, with nine different trains in various liveries shipping in the standard edition, spread out across three different routes: Schnellfahrstrecke Kassel - Würzburg Route, Cajon Pass: Barstow - San Bernardino Route, and Southeastern Highspeed: London St Pancras - Ashford Intl & Faversham Route. A further two steam trains are available if you pick up the deluxe edition as it comes bundled with the stunning Spirit of Steam Liverpool Lime Street - Crewe route. It's a stellar line-up of trains, which is further aided by the extensive add-ons that have been introduced over the years.
The first thing that sets Train Sim World 3 apart from its predecessors is an all new Training Centre, which lets players get to grips with the trains and learn about the safety systems on each. The Training Centre is inspired by a real-world test track in Germany, and essentially adds another route to the game due to its size. Train Sim World 2 players can also continue enjoying their previously purchased routes and locomotives within Train Sim World 3, but any new features will not be included (although the fact that you can take old trains for a spin is enough on its own). Dovetail Games have also helpfully updated all store listings, showing which add-ons are compatible with the new title.
Check out the launch trailer for Train Sim World 3 below:
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Weather has been a key area of development for Dovetail Games and it’s clear to see when playing through some of TSW3’s scenarios. Much like previous titles (and in real life), weather can have a direct impact on your trains. From the way you start and stop at stations, to tasks you do in the train cab whilst you wait for passengers to disembark. Inclement weather increases braking distance, slows acceleration and results in more sparking from electric trains. The brand-new dynamic weather system lets players drive trains in all manner of conditions, such as snow and thunderstorms. These will put your driving skills to the test and it’ll certainly make you sympathise next time you have to commute via train to the office in real life.
Another big addition to Train Sim World 3 is the introduction of volumetric skies. This visual addition removes the 2D textures which have been a staple in the franchise for years. As well as the big visual additions, there are smaller ones which don’t go unnoticed, such as kick up (when the train kicks up debris from the tracks), and platform passengers reacting to certain weather conditions and dressing appropriately. All of these enhancements really aid immersion.
Similarly to previous iterations, players can take part in scenarios or timetabled services between destinations. The length of scenarios vary, depending on the train you are hoping to drive. For example, Cajon Pass scenarios begin to push the hour mark, but UK-based commuter scenarios are considerably shorter. The length of each scenario is influenced by real-life journey times, which further immerses you in the simulation. The variation in scenario length makes the game incredibly accessible; I’ve found myself hopping on just to run short services in any free time I unexpectedly find myself with, saving the longer scenarios for times when I have hours to dedicate to the cause.
By harnessing the power of next-gen consoles, Train Sim World 3 enters an exciting new era. Having previously ran into issues with the performance and optimisation of TSW2 on PlayStation 4 I was keen to see how it would hold up on newer consoles. From my time with Train Sim World 3 since launch I’ve had a largely positive experience, with the PlayStation 5 handling all the new visual additions with ease.
What’s great with Train Sim World 3 is that Dovetail Games grants you the freedom to do whatever you want, abiding to the rules of the rails of course. Catering to train fans of all skill levels, you’ll never be stuck for things to do in the cab. The attention to detail is second to none, with each dial and knob included exactly how it is on the real train counterpart. Enhanced freedom also comes into play in other aspects of Train Sim World 3, especially when it comes to creating custom scenarios to play out. Future add-on packs will also be decoupled from their routes, which means you’ll have more freedom to operate purchased locomotives beyond their intended setting. Better yet, if you get bored of the standard operating liveries, you can even create your own, before sharing them with the Creator’s Club.
One of my biggest struggles with TSW2 was the cinematic camera, and how fiddly it was to jump in and out of the cab. As ironic as it sounds, I actually hate playing from the train cab, I much prefer to view the train's exterior as it zips along the rails, and then switch to interior view during tight depot manoeuvres or when setting up for departure. Thankfully when I first jumped into TSW3, and tried the exterior camera, it felt just right. Because of this you can quickly get the right angle whilst also keeping up with your train at high speeds. It really feels like Train Sim World 3 has moved on from the sometimes unforgiving experience that was TSW2, which is really nice to see.
The global roster of rolling stock lets you dip your toes in routes all over the world, whilst also focusing on ones you care about the most. For me personally being UK based, I naturally gravitated to the Southeastern Highspeed route, and my previously purchased (from TSW2) Great Western Express routes. However thanks to the countless add-on packs which are now compatible with the latest instalment means that there are endless possibilities.
Train Sim World 3 in a way feels like the ‘ultimate crossover’ when it comes to train sims. Dovetail Games have incorporated the best parts of the series and further enhanced fundamental gameplay elements such as weather and lighting.
As I’m writing this, Train Sim World 3 is out and available, but if perhaps you’ve been unsure on whether to pick up the latest instalment, this lil review has helped you on your way to making a decision on Dovetail’s latest. With the extensive add-on collection and new visual features and routes, Dovetail Games have created the most comprehensive and detailed rail sim yet. Train Sim World 3 is here to stay, and I can’t wait to see what add-ons are introduced down the line. If you loved Train Sim World 2, and are aching for more train sim action, then you should definitely consider the latest instalment. Whilst Train Sim World 3 doesn’t change the game completely, it remains true to the series and is certifiably the best addition yet.
Pros: Incredible attention to detail, extensive add-on collection and plenty of freedom
Cons: Limited route/train selection included, basic environment design
For fans of: Train Sim World 2, Train Sim World 2020 & Train Life: A Railway Simulator
8/10: Excellent
Train Sim World 3 is available now for PC (Steam), PlayStation 5/4, Xbox Series X|S. Review code provided by PR. Find a guide to GAMINGbible’s review scores here.