Rail World is a 2-D game that simulates train management.
One of the key features of Rail World is the use of actual aerial photographs or satellite images as the basis for maps. This gives players a more immersive experience. You can also manage multiple trains as a conductor or drive trains using throttle and brake as an engineer. The game employs realistic physics, including stopping distance and collisions.
Aside from these features, you can also set switches and specific train routing. This adds another layer of control to the game. Requirements for the game include Java 1.5.
There have been several updates to Rail World, including the addition of a fuel script, faster performance, and less memory usage. The game also has a new applet startup interface that allows applets to select maps and scripts. Train operations (reverse, split, join) no longer rearrange the train list. The train consist is now shown in order, and doesn't shift around. Quit/save dialogs now have reasonable button labels.
Curve segments have been added to the game, as well as a StreamSound system for sound alignment. There are also user options and savable preferences. The new "reverse" signal in the signal program script has been added. The mini viewer looks slightly different, while the spring switch plugin is more efficient. However, it may not work with saved games from the previous version. Finally, a possible problem with arrow keys in the map editor causing segments to dis-align has been fixed.
All in all, Rail World is a great 2-D train simulation game that lets you enjoy model railroading from the comfort of your desktop. With its realistic physics, use of actual aerial photographs, and various features, it is definitely worth giving a try.
Version 0.8.5: N/A