Expansion Irish Expansion Pack For Train Sim World 5: Proposal

Overview: Why an Irish Expansion Pack?
Ireland’s rail network presents an exceptional opportunity to explore unique operations in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. The proposed routes showcase the country’s rich railway history, modern advancements, and stunning landscapes. This expansion would provide players with engaging scenarios, blending intercity speed, regional diversity, and historical challenges.

Key Characteristics
Proposed Routes

1. Dublin to Cork Main Line (Approx. 165 miles)
   
   • Highlights:
     The flagship intercity service of the Republic of Ireland, connecting its capital, Dublin, to Cork, the second-largest city. This dual-track route features high-speed passenger operations and limited freight traffic.
   • Distinct Features:
     • The steep gradients near Ballybrophy add driving challenges.
     • Stations include Heuston Station in Dublin, a historic and operational hub, and Cork Kent Station, known for its unique architecture.
     • Scenic stretches through the Golden Vale, Ireland's agricultural heartland.
2. Dublin to Belfast Enterprise Line (Approx. 113 miles, potential expansion)
   
   • Highlights: A cross-border route linking Ireland’s capital with Belfast in Northern Ireland, navigating varied signaling systems and international operations.

Time Periods

• Modern Era (2000s–Present):
  Includes contemporary operations and rolling stock, such as the Iarnród Éireann Class 22000 DMU, reflecting Ireland’s ongoing rail modernization.
  
• Historical Era (1970s–1980s):
  Brings to life the challenges of earlier times, including operational scenarios inspired by The Troubles and the introduction of early diesel engines.
  

Proposed Locomotives and Rolling Stock

• Passenger:
  
  • Iarnród Éireann Class 22000 DMU (Intercity Railcar): The mainstay of the modern intercity fleet.
  • CIÉ Class 121 or Class 071 (Historic diesel-electric locomotives).
• Freight:
  
  • Iarnród Éireann 071 Class (General Motors diesel).
  • HOBS (High Output Ballast System) for track maintenance scenarios.
• Heritage:
  
  • Steam locomotives for historical scenarios, such as those used by the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland.

Why These Routes?

1. Challenging Gameplay:
   
   • Experience high-speed runs between Dublin and Cork with tight timetables and operational complexity.
   • Manage steep gradients near Ballybrophy and navigate busy commuter corridors near Dublin.
2. Scenic Diversity:
   
   • The Golden Vale offers lush, rolling hills, while the route into Cork provides picturesque river views.
   • Iconic landmarks, such as Heuston Station and the viaducts en route, add visual appeal.
3. Operational Variety:
   
   • Blend of intercity passenger services, regional operations, and light freight traffic.
   • Historical scenarios could explore earlier diesel operations and steam excursions.
4. Cultural and Historical Significance:
   
   • The Dublin to Cork line represents the backbone of the Republic of Ireland's rail infrastructure.
   • Players can engage with the development of Irish rail, from its historical roots to its modernized fleet.

Feasibility and Scalability

• Initial Release:
  
  • Focus on the Dublin to Cork route, featuring modern operations with the Class 22000 DMU and Class 071 for freight.
• Potential Expansions:
  
  • Dublin to Belfast Enterprise Line with international operations and cross-border scenarios.
  • Dublin Suburban Rail Network (DART), incorporating frequent commuter services along the eastern coastline.
  • Scenic Northern Ireland routes, such as Belfast to Derry/Londonderry or Belfast to Bangor.

Storytelling Opportunities
The Irish Expansion Pack offers rich storytelling potential, especially for the Dublin to Belfast line:

• The Troubles: Scenarios featuring security alerts or historical detours due to bomb threats, requiring older stock and alternative routing.
• Cross-Border Dynamics: Representing collaboration between Iarnród Éireann and Northern Ireland Railways.
• Historical Heritage: Occasional heritage steam train excursions, reflecting the cultural preservation efforts of Irish rail enthusiasts.

Community Engagement
What are your thoughts on specific rolling stock or operational details that would enrich this expansion? Share your insights to help refine this proposal into a must-have addition for Train Sim World 5!

 

Personally I would prefer late 70's or early 80's when everything was loco hauled and most routes retained jointed bullhead track and traditional semaphore signalling. Problem is the most interesting and scenic routes tended to have a very sparse train service - Limerick to Rosslare one or two trains a day and even Dublin to Rosslare just three trains in each direction. One of my favourites was the Ballina branch but back then it was just a shuttle to/from Claremorris with a 141 Class loco and a couple of coaches, apart from Friday evening when there was a through train from Dublin the stock laying over to return on Sunday afternoon. Caught that once @ February 1985 when the 001 Class loco expired at Athlone. Fortunately there was a "spare" Class 141 sat in one of the sidings.

 

Way too long for Dovetail right now, would have to a be third party if anyone.