Hi all, I’ve considered the BlackPool Branches as the next route DLC I will pick up in the near future. But I was wondering if it’s still worth it if I don’t own any other UK DLC’s besides base game routes from previous the previous TSW installment’s. As I don’t have much of a passion for the UK, I was hoping to get into it with this new route as I’ve heard nothing but good reviews for the route. I will take suggestions though for other UK routes. Thanks for your time and opinions!
Yes, it’s a very good route without other UK DLCs. The scenery and realism of operations are still excellent, and the vast majority of services still operate, just with less variety of units/locos. The other thing I would say is that several of the other DLCs it uses are now available extremely cheaply in sales (admittedly depending which hardware you’re using) so if you buy the route and enjoy it, you can add a few more locos/units later without it costing too much.
Owning the other content would definitely boost up the route, but by itself I’d still say it’s worth it, it’s definitely got more trains/ and variations of trains than most routes which usually only come with 1. base route will still have the areas of passenger/freight and shunting covered, the dlc mostly if not all just covers substitution. it will give a different experience to modern U.K. content for sure, not sure which (BR era or Modern) you would specifically prefer.
Yes, you will get three different classes with the route along with the bits of rolling stock, and also a very high quality route. Still definitely worth it.
If you enjoy it then definitely have a look at picking up some of those DLC's. Particularly as someone mentioned before that they are a matter of a few pounds in the sales. The routes are showing their age in some parts but the rolling stock is still excellent and some of the best we've had. I'm thinking of the likes of the class 31, class 20, peak and 101 DMU. Northern Transpennine is still my favourite route.
I would say that BPO is a very good route on its own merit, but I personally would not be playing it so much without the layers that NTP and TVL add to it.
I think this is an excellent route and would be a great first UK play. Admittedly I particularly enjoy as live locally but looking objectively I do think this one is up there. Having had the dubious pleasure of commuting on the Pacer in the past I can attest to it's realistic recreation. Thoroughly recommended, JT did a superb job.
