The idea would be a "Diesel Legends" style package for the Spirit of Steam and Peak Forest Valley routes. It would be "set" in the early to mid-1960s, but the route itself would still work since they're based in 1958 so 5-7 years wouldn't be a huge difference. The 104 DMU introduction really got me thinking that it's a very interesting time with that mix of the old (some steam still around until the mid-1960s) and the new (diesels, diesel-electrics, diesel-hydraulics, etc) Pros The routes already fit the time period Much of the existing stock is already in the game. It's a good chance to reuse assets built and underused. It's mostly just new "later" timetables to be added (although there could even still be some steam trains beating around still) Cons Beyond the usual "well who would do it, that's a lot of work!" etc I have no clue how "accurate" some of the stock is. I know people will be focused on what's appropriate to the actual routes at that time, including the stock and any "modifications" that came later, etc. So, I don't know it it's workable. I'm not an expert on trains, or UK trains in particular. I just find that I really enjoy the older UK trains in TSW 4 and think that whole transitional period is fascination from an historical perspective. Seems like it COULD be doable and pretty easily (relatively, compared to a new route or new locos from scratch) as it's mostly just editor level stuff. Then again, if the stuff we have won't fit in that time period (or even a little later, given how long many of them were in service) then it would be a lot harder. Thoughts? Suggestions? What specific stock we have would or would not work? Are there any other services you would add or remove from the existing SOS/PFR timetables to make them more accurate, complete or fun gameplay wise? I really like the maps, but they seem to be in a bit of a rut. There are plenty of folks that don't usually play "old timey steam" but might give them a shot with an update. Granted, the 1960 diesels were first generation but there's a sort of... comfort level?.... that might draw people in. (I sure hope that's the case with the 104 coming out that gives the MU drivers something semi-familiar to tool around in)
Class 24 and 25 the obvious choice to fill the diesel gaps, for PFR as discussed a green Class 45 as originally built also would be useful. Various DMU’s could also feature, Cravens Class 105 were fairly early on the scene and a Class 108, which could also be reworked into a more modern configuration.
I long for the day that we finally get to see more of the older classes in TSW. So many awesome types to choose from. Locomotive dlc add ons for the UK are not coming as frequently as I hoped they would now that we have so many third party developers involved. I would be most keen to see the likes of the Class 24/25, 44/45/46 as well as a myriad of 1st generation dmus.
Well now we have the superb 218 for Germany, it’s time for DTG or one of the associates to follow suit with something to match.
I like the enthusiasm and new content suggestions, but I was thinking something short term as a proof of concept with what we have or modifications of things we have in game. Such as the Class 20/31/33/37, the 101, etc. I think the 104 is coming along because the 101 wasn't on the PFR route, but that was kind of my question. WAS there 101s on the PFR or SOS? Were there any 20/31/33/37? What could we have without having to make new locos from scratch? (I don't think adding the right headlights, livery or headboards on an existing loco is nearly the amount of work as a class 25 from scratch, even though the latter would be awesome) It was mentioned the 45 we have is a later version, so would take modifications to be suitable for PFR? That would be maybe "Early Diesel Volume 2" with the Class 24/25, etc. Outside of the two 1950s routes, I don't know what other routes would be supported for more content. There are railtours out there already. I was thinking something more substantial, but I don't see any other routes near enough to that time period to be suitable for the additions. NTP is 1983, Blackpool is 1986, Tees Valley is 1989, but those are decades later. There just aren't really any 1960s or 1970s routes for the UK. (CRR exists as the only 70s one but is a US route)
Of course, one of the most obvious locomotives to add for an early 1960s DLC Pack would be a Class 55 Deltic. Maybe a BR blue Class 37, a blue Class 47, and a Class 50 could be included too.
The steam routes definitely missed the chance to piggy back their sales on additional services of BR trains already in the game and what other routes do. Always seemed pretty crazy that if they were worried about sales they could have got more of the BR fan base/those who like the BR stock at it (not saying it would have been a saviour but definitely a boost on at least some issues with the route).
