I held back on both of these at release due to finances and wasn’t sure what else was coming out last month (secretly holding out in the hope of Tadami), however both seem to have fantastic feedback so it’s time to pull the trigger on one or the other. so which one has the x factor and gets put in my basket?
I think the Medway Valley is the winner of the two. The LSP has two new trains and imo an equally well crafted route but the MVL has more options in terms of length of services and types of traction. It also is the single best looking modern UK route in the game. There is an issue with the Class 375 and its audio on the Playstation 5 but i dont know them irl so i cant speak to it other than its quiet. And using the Class 465/9 in it's place was kinda always my intention anyways as who wouldnt want a 45 min networker run.
Class 375/3, 375/6 and 465/9 services from 10 to 75 mins Class 700 services at ~30 mins with a few ECS moves to Tonbridge Class 395 services at ~30 mins with a few longer runs from Maidstone Class 66 services all over the shop. long, heavy, FUN!! Class 33 & Class 47 railtours and of course the Lumbering Scotsman. I think Tina said something like... "Simply the best"
I would really hate to call it, both have a quite distinct appeal and were both Day One purchases. The Czech route gives you a very scenic railway with two unique new trains and almost impeccable presentation. Medway Valley raises the bar to an all new standard. A nice scenic, albeit not in the spectacular fashion of the Czech route, secondary UK route which includes to all intents and purposes a new much improved Class 375. If you have to make a decision then I would say the only factor is whether you have a preference for UK or European routes. Otherwise they are both start up developers who have done a most excellent job which frankly shames some of the other 3P’s and both worthy of support. Edit: And I certainly wouldn’t mortgage either against the possibility of Tadami coming out this side of TSW7 or even Christmas!
I would say: Medway Valley Line has more options in terms of services and trains, best looking modern UK route Liberec finally introduces another unelectrified European route, comes with two semi-expert level trains, several new wagons, and more interesting freight services Scenery is brilliant in each Personally if I could only choose one I would probably go with Liberec, I think the level of detail you get with the trains (including the first accessible engine room on a diesel loco) is amazing But I think they are both great and am fine with paying full price for both I think it would mainly depend on whether you prefer electric or diesel, and passenger or freight
Both are fantastic choices, however given your interest in the Tadami line, so more a rural railway line with diesel traction in beautiful scenery, the Czech route is closer to what Tadami offers. So I would suggest you get the Czech route.
