I think this is a good simulator.

I bought this simulator for my grandson who loves anything about trains. I like this simulator because it has a simplified mode that allows a 6 year old, that is computer savey, to control the trains. The controls are by default realistic and there is a learning curve in the default mode.

I like the different train routes available as well as the choice between electric, diesel and steam locomotives and cars. The realism extends to the physical laws the train has to overcome such as the number of cars and the steepness of the grades and the time it takes to speed up and slow down due to the variable power of the locomotives and the weight of the train.

One con is the lack of different viewpoints available for viewing the traim; there are several but it would be much better if there were more. Another con is in some of the diesel locomotives - to be realistic, the locomotive cabs and exteriors are dirty and rough looking but becomes a little tiresome to look at. It would be nice to have pristine versions of these locomotives.

Ron in Tampa

Simulator

Informative knoledge for locomotives,I liked it for the experience,It seems to be a pretty good simulator,I always trust anything from microsoft for games and other types of software also

Shows its age but still a classic game

This dates back to 2001. The graphics were topline then, but are now rather blocky & long in the tooth. MS were developing a Mk 2 version, but scrapped it in Jan 2009 as it neared release date. Shame.

Later rivals like Trainz are far prettier, but I still think MSTS stands up well on sheer depth of play. Start with simple controls (forward/reverse, fast/slow) then build up to using every footplate control. Fight to bring Flying Scotsman over the Settle & Carlisle through a snowstorm... hard to beat for atmosphere & fun.

There's a built in editor to change the routes and a huge range of rolling stock to download - generally free or fairly cheap.

To conclude: be aware of its age and limitations, but still give it a try. It's unlikely to cost you much & it won't demand a new graphics card either.

Microsoft Train Simulator

No disrespect to the seller... I am very surprised Microsoft has issued such a poor simulator. Unlike MS Flight Simulator, MSTS lacks all the enthusiasm, and realistic aspects. The controls are very difficult to learn, understand, and work. The instruction manual is very hard to understand, and is laid out totally wrong. It is about time Microsoft issued a new better programed, and understandable Train Sim. There are not very many areas to run either. Microsoft could do a lot better to include southeast U.S. in their scenery. I wouldn't waste my time purchasing MS Train Simulator until a new version is issued. However, MS Flight Simulator 2004 and Version X is out of this world!

the best train simulator and the orignal microsoft game

this product is truly a great product, it has increasingly been hard to find because of the cuts and draw backs of the microsoft game companies and the ace studios and all that but anyway, this product is the original product that my son says is truly great because of it simplcidy and that it truly give an exciting simulation of train throughout the world. thank you for selling this product at such a low price everywhere else they'll run you up to 105 dollars for this mint and rare game. this seller only 50 dollars that a great saving