Train Simulator: Norddeutsche-Bahn: Kiel - Lübeck Route Add-On is a simulation title for PC that adds an 80 km regional railway line in Schleswig-Holstein to the base game. The route runs between Kiel Hbf and Lübeck Hbf on an unelectrified, mostly single-track line that features passing loops at stations. Players operate diesel traction in a setting that emphasizes realistic timetable adherence, signal handling, and the challenges of single-track operations with opposing traffic.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on driving passenger and freight services along the scenic Kiel-Lübeck corridor. The line passes through forested plains and offers views of the Baltic region, with stations that require precise stopping and departure timing. Because the route remains unelectrified, all traction relies on diesel power, and the single-track layout demands careful use of passing loops to manage meets between trains.
Available locomotives include the DB BR 648 DMU in DB Regio livery and the DB BR 218 diesel locomotive in DB Traffic Red livery. Additional rolling stock covers the DB BR 261, control cars, double-deck coaches in DB Regio livery, Intercity coaches, and freight wagons such as the Rnoos 644 and Zacns 95m. Players manage throttle, braking, and route knowledge while responding to signals and speed restrictions that reflect the line's real-world characteristics.
Quick Drive mode allows free-form operation on any section of the route with chosen consists, while structured scenarios enforce timetable and operational rules. The 1.0 GB download size keeps the add-on lightweight relative to the detailed route geometry and textures.
Game Modes
Career scenarios form the main structured content. Seven scenarios are included: three parts of A Winter's Return using the BR 648, two parts of Summer Slip using the BR 218, The Lonely Wonderer with the BR 648, and Wintery Lake with the BR 218. These scenarios cover winter and summer conditions and require players to complete full or partial runs while meeting service requirements.
Railfan Mode provides two static observation scenarios, one at Kiel and one at Plön, for watching trains without active driving duties. The add-on is also Quick Drive compatible, enabling players to select any available locomotive and consist for immediate operation on the full route or selected segments.
Additional scenarios created by the community appear through the in-game workshop system and expand the available content without extra cost.
The Route and Its Rolling Stock
The Kiel-Lübeck line opened in stages between 1866 and 1873 and has remained diesel-only and largely single-track. Modern regional services complete the journey in slightly more than an hour, while earlier express trains achieved faster times. In the simulation, the route preserves these operational constraints, including the need to coordinate movements at passing loops.
Rolling stock reflects current and recent German regional and intercity fleets. Double-deck coaches and control cars allow push-pull operation with the BR 648, while the BR 218 handles both passenger and freight duties. Freight consists use specialized wagons suited to the line's regional traffic patterns.
Is It Worth Playing?
Reception for the add-on sits in the mixed range, with some players noting occasional issues such as missing speed restrictions or signal behavior in Quick Drive. The route appeals most to enthusiasts of German regional diesel operations who value the single-track challenge and scenic variety of Schleswig-Holstein.
Players seeking realistic timetable driving on an unelectrified line will find the included scenarios and Quick Drive options provide focused content. Those who prefer electrified high-speed or multi-track routes may find the operational constraints less engaging. The add-on integrates directly into the existing Train Simulator library and receives community scenario support that extends playtime beyond the seven career and two railfan scenarios supplied at launch.
