When I first got a computer back in the 1980s one of the first programs that I purchased was Microsoft Flight Simulator. It's a great program, I still have it, but flying an airplane just isn't as interesting to me as operating a locomtive (even if the flight simulator is using a vintage DC-3!). I have looked for a long time for computer programs that simulate locomotive operation. Here are my favorites. Versions of all of these can be found online at the following links:
TrainMaster
Trainmaster Simulation Program
This program simulates a modern north american diesel locomotive and has very realistic sound effects. The screen image is a "profile" of the upcoming track viewed from the side. A few years ago I got to visit the locomotive simulator used by the Santa Fe in suburban Kansas City. The screen image used in TrainMaster is the same type of image used on the computer screen of the actual simulator. This program lacks a "straight-ahead" view out the front of the cab, but in terms of performance I would rate it as very realistic. You have to notch the throttle just like you would on an actual diesel. The air brakes have both an independent and a train brake. You can watch the gauges when you make reductions and you can put the train brake in running, release, lap, service or emergency. This program has working block signals, if you go through a signal or break the speed limit the program puts your train into emergency. If you go too fastr, you can derail. You then get to see a graphic of your engineer's card being torn up!
Steam Express
A simulation of a steam locomotive based upon british steam. You serve as both the fireman and the engineer. You must control both the water level in your boiler and the amount of coal in your firebox. Put in too much water and you will cool off your boiler and reduce the pressure. Your are also expected to run with a clean stack, which you can control with the blower or by opening and closing the firebox door. As engineer you contol the regulator (throttle) and the brakes. This is a really cool program. If you have any interest in steam, check it out!
Railway Locomotive Simulator--"Mechanik"
This program is the tops in visual simulation for a shareware program. It is based upon a Polish locomotive and was designed by a group of students as a demonstration of their programming skills. I haven't used this program very much and it is based on an engine with which I am not familiar. Nevertheless, you really ought to check it out, these students did a great job.
Trainz Locomotive Simulator
A superior commericial program that deserves your consideration. It will require you to create routes, but it is a very powerful program and continues to be updated. It can also be used with RailDriver, a a device that simulates the cab controls of a modern diesel locomotive.
Most of these links will take you to free downloads (Trainz is a commercial program that you will need to purchase). Commerical versions are available for both Trainmaster and for Steam Express. What better way to spend your time on your computer--running a locomotive.
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