Anyone a virtual hobbyist?

You could try it with Microsoft Train Simulator or any other similar game.

I imagine there are many people who do their "model railroading" with computer simulation programs because they may not have the space, finances or inclination to build an actual layout. Especially in today's world where people change residences periodically or don't have the extra indoor space, especially for a larger scale. There are some software programs out there, I'm not familar with any of them but it would be an interesting topic to review them. Computers and software are getting better all the time, and I daresay computer software has the potential to drain off many more of the 3-D modellers.

 

I've run MS Train Simulator, but not lately. I used to like the original version of Railroad Tycoon, which pre-dates MS Windows.

Best software for something like this is Trainz Simulator which lets you create your own layout (very easy tools) and run it like a simulator on your PC.

 

They have an iPad version as well.

 

I still play with it from time to time.

Microsoft's first crack at train simulator was quite groundbreaking for its time.  They almost produced a follow on, but that development fell through.  Their is the Trainz product, which is a decent attempt to "virtualize" your layout.  I like the train shed, where you can view your rolling stock and engines...pretty nice.  I, however, really like Train Simulator 2013, by a company I believe out of England.  They have good NA representation in the product with routes out West and the northeast.  They have some DLC content, such as the NS Heritage series and steam locomotives.  If done right by the developer many routes have very decent scenarios, such as moving a cut of cars from one location to another and then ending up at this yard.  Some scenarios are even timed.  If your PC can handle it...the graphics are drop dead excellent.

 

Both Trainz and Train Simulator have editing tools allowing one to create a route and script in actions, such as computer controlled trains, and other factors.  However I find the editors quite daunting.  I don't have the time or desire to attempt a route myself  but if that is your thing the tools are included.   

I've used TrainPlayer to simulate layouts that I've done with AnyRail and it is pretty amazing stuff.

 

-Mark

I got into MS Train Simulator based programs for a while, it can be expensive, particularly in keeping state-of-the-art with processors and sound cards to run 150 car consists in high definition.  So much relied on managing the computer, files, and backing up.  My computer tanked and I never had the ambition to start over.  Very cool but at the same time could get very boring, i.e. getting a coal drag up and over the Sierra Nevada's.  Now I'm back to the layout.

 

Stack