Diesel traction locomotives and trains are something that is somewhat outdated in the world of electric-traction trains and locomotives. Diesel trains however form a key part of railway history and make a unique subject in the video game industry.

‘Train Sim World 2: Tharandter Rampe’ is set on the railway line between Dresden and Chemnitz, reportedly constructed in the ‘mid-19th Century’ according to the game’s developers. During its construction, sections of the line were built at fairly steep gradients by railway standards, making for a pretty hair-raising trip between Dresden and Chemnitz.

Run a diesel locomotive on an electric line. Image by' 'Train Sim World 2: Tharandter Rampe'.

Despite the line having been electrified in 2012, according to the developers, the line was still serviced by diesel traction locomotives due to the unelectrified lines beyond Chemnitz that were serviced by the same locomotives as the line between Chemnitz and Dresden.

In ‘Train Sim World 2: Tharandter Rampe’ players take on the task of running the diesel locomotives between Dresden and Chemnitz and must ensure that passenger trains arrive at their destinations on time, that freight makes it to where it needs to go on time and intact, and that everything is orderly and well-organized in the railyards.

Use different trains for different functions. Image by 'Train Sim World 2: Tharandter Rampe'.

Players are offered the full Train Sim experience as they are able to play as train drivers, passengers, line managers, or even simply as spectators watching trains go by. The game allows for custom scenario creation using the ‘Scenario Planner’ and ‘Livery Designer’, truly giving players total control.

‘Train Sim World 2: Tharandter Rampe’ is developed by ‘Dovetail Games’ and is available on Steam.