The Ultimate Model Train Set
Basically a train simulator that allows you to participate in complex scenarios based on passenger services or complex industrial operations. You can also create good scenarios with then inbuilt, eays-to-use editor; or go for more complex script writing.
If you like trains and railways, then this is like the ulitmate model trainset, and can give you hours of fun. You can create anything you want with it, such as historical routes, or your favourite branch line, then drive authentic trains along these routes. Good physics simulation means that driving a train is not as easy as it sounds. It takes time to build up speed and time to stop. Sharp curves in the track can cause derailment if you're going to fast, and if you don't brake early enough then you can easily overshoot a red signal. It takes time to master each train, weight and the number of carriages being the determining factors. The controls of the engines are quite accurate, although the controls of the steam engines slightly dumbed down, and are not as comprehensive as those found in Microsoft Train Simulator. But it is a very good simulator in the truest sense, and therefore even has training value.
The simulator does not have any multiplayer functionality, but I don't think this is a problem since trains operate to strict programmes and schedules, with little room for creative interaction. The best part of the game, in terms of gameplay, are the scenarios, which allow you to participate in pre-programmed mission-like operations, such as operating a short route in a busy period. There are only a few of these scenarios, and the sim could definitely have benefited from more.
It has to be said that graphics are not one of this games strengths. They were only average when the game was released back in 2004, and now, in 2006, they look dated. In particular the textures are wishy-washy and the water effects are weak.
Sound is better. The engine sound is good, and there is a good variety of 3D sound sources in the game. I like the noise the wheels make on the tracks when the train is turning. It sounds very authentic.
In terms of value, it's worth getting if you're a train or simulator enthusiast, but otherwise you might find it gets boring quite quickly. If it had pretty graphics to look at, it might have had addtional value; but as it is now it can seem a bit pointless to the non-enthusiast.
One of the things that I don't like about this game is the way the game contols the user in the downloading and uploading of add-ons. Messing around with add-ons can be great fun, but this game forces you to download and upload content to Auran's website, and will not allow you to download more 100MB per month without paying. I think this sucks big time. A single scenario, with all the dependant files, is likely to be over 100MB; therefore you cannot download it unless you subscribe. The lack of scenarios in the original game mean that you're likely to want to download more quite soon, which means paying for it, which to me feels like I'm paying Auran for someone's freeware. The problem with this is that too many games are charging these days. Look at Warcraft. Four or five of these subscriptions (Gamespot included) and you're suddenly parting with a lot of cash per month, which means your limited as to what games you can play.