SimRail: The Railway Simulator
SimRail 2021
Release Date: December 13, 2024
Simulation, FPP, trains, Polish, machines and equipment, co-op, multiplayer, singleplayer, internet
Steam
Railway simulator developed by the Polish SimRail studio and released by the Polish company PlayWay. In SimRail 2021 we can both play the role of train drivers and try our hand at being signaller. The game allows you to play alone or in cooperation mode.
SimRail 2021 is a railway simulator developed by the Polish SimRail studio and published by the Polish company PlayWay. The game allows us both to play the role of drivers and to prove ourselves as signaller.
Mechanics
In SimRail 2021 we observe the action from the first person perspective (FPP). The game gives us about 500 km of railway routes including Upper Silesia, which were prepared on the basis of real geodetic data. During the game, we can sit at the helm of modern long-distance or suburban depots, as well as of diesel and steam trains, whose fame has already passed. Their correct behaviour is supervised by an advanced physics system, which was created with the use of technology from simulators designed to teach the train drivers. In addition, travelling through Europe is made more attractive by weather conditions; during heavy rainfall puddles are formed, and snowdrifts may be deposited on the tracks after a snowstorm.
However, this is not the end, as we may as well hide in our station and, as signaller, operate crossovers based on the timetable and rules. As the equipment we operate does not necessarily have to be new, it is worth keeping an eye on it, as a failure (which is not difficult at all) can have disastrous consequences.
Game modes
SimRail 2021 allows you to play both alone and in multiplayer mode. Coordination between the drivers and the signallers is made possible by a communication system built-in in the game.
Technical aspects
SimRail 2021 has a high-quality graphic design. The game is based on Unity technology, and not only trainsets and stations, but also the routes along which the trains run were designed with attention to detail.
Videos and Screens
[0:44] SimRail: The Railway Simulator SimRail The Railway Simulator - Multiplayer Trailer
[0:24] SimRail: The Railway Simulator SimRail - The Railway Simulator Early Access Teaser
The main pros of the game
- Realism and Detail: Users appreciate the attention to detail in the train models, scenery, and overall simulation experience. The game offers a realistic portrayal of Polish railways, which is a significant plus for fans of train simulators.
- Multiplayer Experience: The multiplayer mode is highlighted as a standout feature, allowing players to interact and work together as drivers and dispatchers, creating a more immersive experience.
- Large Map: The game features over 500 km of track, providing a substantial area for players to explore and drive trains.
- Diverse Train Types: Players can operate various types of trains, including high-speed EMUs and freight trains, which adds variety to the gameplay.
The main cons of the game
- Bugs and Performance Issues: Many users report numerous bugs, crashes, and performance problems that detract from the gameplay experience. Issues such as server lag, graphical glitches, and unresponsive tutorials are common complaints.
- Lack of Communication from Developers: Players express frustration over the developers' poor communication regarding updates and changes, leading to feelings of neglect within the community.
- Limited Single-Player Content: The single-player mode has been criticized for its limited scenarios, lack of AI train traffic, and the absence of a save feature, which makes long scenarios tedious and frustrating.
- Rushed Full Release: Many users feel that the game was released in an incomplete state, with many promised features still missing or underdeveloped.
The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users
- Save Game Functionality: Players are disappointed by the lack of a save feature in single-player mode, especially for long scenarios that can take several hours to complete.
- Scenario Editor: The promised scenario editor, which would allow players to create their own scenarios, has not been implemented, leading to frustration among users.
- AI Traffic and More Scenarios: Users desire more AI train traffic in single-player mode and a greater variety of scenarios to enhance gameplay.
- Optimization Improvements: There are calls for better optimization to improve performance, particularly in busy areas like Warszawa Centralna.
- Communication Tools: Players mention the need for better communication tools within multiplayer, as current systems can be inadequate or non-functional.
Summary
- Overall, while "SimRail - The Railway Simulator" has a solid foundation and potential, user reviews suggest that the game is currently marred by technical issues and unmet expectations.
Summary generated on:
GAMERS Score
Average score from 183 votes. 1002 players anticipated the game.
SimRail: The Railway Simulator Summary
Early Access:January 13, 2023
Platforms:
PC Windows
SimRail: The Railway Simulator System Requirements
PC / Windows
Minimum: Intel Core i5-4690 3.5 GHz / AMD Ryzen 5 1500X 3.7 GHz, 8 GB RAM, graphic card 4 GB GeForce GTX 970 / Radeon RX 580 or better, 60 GB HDD, Windows 7(SP1)/8/8.1/10 64-bit
Recommended: Intel Core i7-4790 3.6 GHz / AMD Ryzen 7 1700 3.8 GHz, 16 GB RAM, graphic card 6 GB GeForce GTX 1060 / 8 GB Radeon RX 590 or better, 60 GB HDD, Windows 7(SP1)/8/8.1/10 64-bit