I have recently covered the TSW5 London Overground Mildmay Line and scored it an 8.5 out of 10. I loved every element except for the passenger loading and a lack of energy. Consequently, when I was offered the TSW5 Cardiff City Network DLC, I was a little apprehensive. I hoped that the Welsh passengers wouldn’t let me down, and I can gladly say they didn’t. This latest DLC ticks many boxes and train enthusiasts will love it.
Dovetail Games developed and published this single-player train-driving simulator. It is the first time Welsh routes have been included in this much-loved franchise and it has some amazing scenic tracks to drive across. Moreover, lovers of old-school DMUs will enjoy or endure both class 150 and 153s. These bone rattlers are loud, smelly, and reasonably uncomfortable. However, you have the best seat in the house, so sit back and enjoy the view.
TSW5 Cardiff City Network will make many people smile.
Driving from the Welsh capital into the iconic but deprived valleys was a treat. Additionally, exploring Canton Depot and traversing some challenging scenarios was incredible. Whether you drive Cardiff Queen Street to Cardiff Bay or along the Merthyr lines, you will not be disappointed. The rattle of each DMU as it slowly moves across rural tracks was brilliant. Furthermore, I loved stopping to explore each station en route.
This DLC has seen some new improvements that will impress train enthusiasts. The eye for detail brings each traction bang up to date. Sockets, livery, door panels, bathrooms, and bike racks match modern rolling stock. What’s more, the cab layout is remarkably accurate and I loved the use of mimic indicators and retro switches for the lighting controls.
Plenty of scenarios.
Gamers will adore TSW5 Cardiff City Network’s content. 5 scenarios, loads of weather fronts, and challenging moments await budding virtual train drivers. On top of this, you can freely drive to your heart’s content or tackle one of hundreds of timetabled services. There is coupling and uncoupling to complete, St David’s Day to celebrate, and biblical weather to contend with.
Though some of the scenarios may seem a little far-fetched, the action was ultra-realistic. Hardcore fans can keep the safety systems rolling as they test their skills. Alternatively, the systems can be isolated for a more relaxed experience. Either way, you will adore the sense of speed and the pressure a modern train driver faces.
TSW5 Cardiff City Network has exceptional graphics.
Wales isn’t called God’s country for no reason. Despite the ever-present woeful weather, it is a beautiful land. The lush green fields race by and the pretty towns highlight the wonderful history of this proud nation. Though the modern city landscape isn’t that attractive, I loved the developers’ focus on detail and the exceptional realism.
The audio blends incredible train noises with stunning ambient sounds. The ping of your AWS or the sound of the wheels profiling never gets old. I adored the accurate hustle alarms and the shrill but necessary sound of the horn. In short, TSW5 Cardiff City Network sounds impeccable.
Exceptional controls.
I’ve played TSW for years and the controls are always tight and easy to understand. Additionally, I have driven both 150s and 153s across the Cornish mainline and Falmouth and St Ives branches. As such, the familiar layout wasn’t a challenge. Yet, if you have not driven a train before, you will not struggle to master the inputs.
Replay value will depend on your desire to witness every mile and chain. If DMUs are not your thing, you may struggle with the rattling and the slow acceleration and braking. However, if you want to see Wales from a driver’s point of view, you will return for hours of driving.
TSW5 Cardiff City Network is a great addition.
It has been a long time coming, but this Welsh addition to the franchise was worth the wait. TSW5 Cardiff City Network is unbelievably good and train enthusiasts will adore the chance to explore some incredible locations. Aesthetically it is pleasing and I love the attention to detail. Accordingly, it is worth every penny and I recommend buying it here! Can you master the DMU and explore God’s country? Pick up your driver’s key, study your route, and get to work.
