I’ve recently got the bug for Train Sim World. However, I never considered VR a serious option. The console and PC versions allow enthusiasts to fulfil their train driving dreams. Yet, though it is ultra-realistic, it isn’t immersive. Thankfully, the VR gods have spoken and we can now sit in the virtual driving seat thanks to Train Sim World VR New York.
This VR driving simulation was developed by Just Add Water and published by Dovetail Games. Moreover, it is a single-player game with a smattering of online competitiveness. The online leaderboards allow players to compete amongst themselves to prove who is the greatest virtual driver of all time. This arcade edge may not impress TSW purists, but I liked the changing goals and the sense of reward.
Train Sim World VR New York is a pleasant change from the norm.
I’ve admired the franchise’s devout attention to detail. Every route and train are pinpoint accurate (queue the neds who are ready to correct that statement). However, Train Sim World VR New York focuses on its immersive approach while sacrificing layers of realism. I haven’t been to New York, so I cannot comment on the route accuracy. However, there are some visual issues with the MTA, M7A, and M3A trains.
Despite the shortcomings, I enjoyed every second. The ability to smash the horn, flick the master key, and judge my braking and speed was fantastic. Moreover, Permanent Way or P-Way staff are aplenty, and you have to acknowledge the train enthusiasts. The timing of your horn is essential if you wish to maximise your score. Moreover, these sneaky individuals hide around bends, in trees, and carparks. Accordingly, you must keep your eyes peeled while maintaining your focus. If this isn’t enough, there are speed gates to hit and the normal speed restrictions to abide by.
Short and sweet.
Unlike other TSW content, every ride is short and sweet. The career mode focuses on short bursts between major and minor hubs. Alternatively, you can take a journey across the Harlem line and do as you wish. I stuck to the career mode as I enjoyed the structure. Yet, lovers of this virtual experience will enjoy riding the rails freely.
Train Sim World VR New York runs extremely well.
Visually, Train Sim World VR New York doesn’t compete with its non-VR counterparts. Yet, it runs extremely well on the Meta Quest 3. I experienced no juddering or uncomfortable moments. Furthermore, the blend of colours and the cab layout are easy to look at. Though the simplicity may annoy hardcore fans, I liked the UI and the ability to concentrate on the job at hand.
The audio is a bit of a mixed bag. There is a sense of realism in the train noises. You hear the clunk of the doors and the roar of the engines. Additionally, the horns sound great. Unfortunately, the profiling sound is hollow and there is no sense of depth whenever you pass through tunnels. This was disappointing, but it doesn’t detract from the core gameplay or the overall quality.
Excellent controls.
Train Sim World VR New York is an absolute joy to play. The controls are easy to understand and you enjoy many of the core mechanics of the non-VR base game. Opening and closing the doors and powering and stopping the train was a cinch. No matter your level of VR experience, you will master this in no time.
There are plenty of career tasks to complete and a leaderboard to top. Additionally, there is the freedom of the journey mode. Consequently, if you fall for its immersive charms, you will return for more.
Train Sim World VR New York is a step in the right direction.
Train Sim World VR New York is the closest you’ll come to driving a train without having to qualify in real life. However, it will divide its audience. The lack of traction detail will frustrate enthusiasts, but the immersive feeling of driving a virtual train will impress. What’s more, the short but sharp trips and the arcade-style tasks will keep gamers on their toes and coming back for more. VR gaming is the future and Dovetail Games has put the cat amongst the pigeons with this great simulation experience. Subsequently, this is a step in the right direction and I recommend buying it here! Jump in your train and keep the virtual Harlem line running.
