Train Sim World 2: West Somerset Railway Route Add-On is a simulation title that adds a detailed 20-mile stretch of Britain's longest standard gauge heritage railway to the base game. Players operate diesel locomotives along the preserved line from Bishops Lydeard to Minehead, focusing on realistic train handling in a scenic Somerset setting of rolling hills, meadows, and coastal views. The add-on emphasizes authentic British motive power and heritage operations rather than modern high-speed rail.
Gameplay
Core gameplay centers on precise control of two locomotives: the BR Class 47 mainline diesel and the BR Class 09 diesel shunter. Both feature highly detailed cabs with accurate controls, performance characteristics, and handling derived from real-world data. Sound design includes authentic recordings from the actual engines, enhancing the sensory feedback during operation. Players manage throttle, braking, and signals while navigating the route's stations, mileposts, and countryside. The simulation engine delivers true-to-life physics, including acceleration, traction, and stopping distances that reflect the locomotives' diesel-electric systems. Exploration elements include locating 60 hidden collectibles such as fire buckets, guard's hand lamps, GWR posters, and milk churns scattered along the line. Visual fidelity extends to rolling stock with BR Mk1 coaches in chocolate and cream or crimson and cream liveries, allowing for varied train consists during runs.
Game Modes
The add-on supports several distinct ways to engage with the route. Six detailed scenarios provide structured challenges that combine driving tasks with timetable adherence and operational procedures. Service Mode offers a full 24-hour Diesel Gala timetable, simulating the popular heritage event where multiple locomotives run passenger services to entertain visitors. Free-form options include taking control of a locomotive for open running, riding as a passenger in the coaches to observe the scenery, or simply watching trains pass while capturing screenshots. Tutorials cover the Class 47 and Class 09 for beginners, progressing to advanced procedures for experienced users. Mastery challenges and collectible hunts add replay value without altering the core focus on realistic railway operations.
Route and Locomotives
The preserved West Somerset Railway route recreates every station, signal, and landmark with high detail, capturing the character of this heritage line during a diesel gala. The Class 47 appears in British Railways two-tone green livery, including the named example D1661 North Star, while the Class 09 features British Railways green. These locomotives handle both mainline passenger duties and shunting tasks, with the Class 09 providing support for keeping services on time. The environment supports varied weather and time-of-day conditions that affect visibility and operations, though the emphasis remains on the mechanical accuracy of the trains themselves.
Is It Worth Playing?
This route add-on suits players who enjoy methodical, detail-oriented train simulation with a focus on British heritage railways. It delivers accurate locomotive behavior and scenic variety that rewards careful driving and timetable management. Reception on major platforms shows mixed results, with roughly two-thirds of reviews positive, reflecting appreciation for the route's atmosphere alongside some notes on the simulation's learning curve. The content remains available as a standalone purchase for owners of the base game, with no ongoing seasonal updates specific to this add-on. Those drawn to realistic diesel operations, collectible hunting, and extended timetable running will find substantial depth here, while casual players may prefer starting with the base game's tutorials before committing to the route.
