Radio functionality is a must have feature for future game. The 20+ year old Polish rail simulator "MaSzyna" has this feature, with the driver having to turn on the radio before starting the train and tune into a specific radio channel. Then they will be told over the radio when they can depart, enter a station and even be warned about incidents and events in special scenarios (for example being warned of speed restrictions at stations due to overcrowded platforms). For a 2 decade old simulator, this feature adds a surprising amount of realism and immersion, especially with realistic sounding radio (background noise, distortions, etc). This feature is a must have for scenarios in my opinion, as it makes the driving experience more realistic and engaging. Driving with the noises of the train itself as the only source of sound makes the game feel boring and sometimes lonely.
Don't see much need in this, tbh. I'd like a bit of radio chatter sounds thrown in, but as long as the radio is clickable as the "Contact Signaller" button, it's good enough for TSW.
Radio chatter is good. Doesn't even have to be actual words, etc. It might be more difficult for it to say things according to what's happening on the tracks and where you are and that
Maybe not in timetable mode, but I really think the radio should be utilised more in Journeys/Scenarios (Sand Patch demonstrated how this could work well) rather than just generic text boxes or narration. Taxilinga at other times would be better than nothing but not a game-defining feature.
Trust me, it makes a huge difference. Honestly Maszyna feels more realistic to play just because of the radio communication, and that game has ancient graphics. Driving in near silence feels incredibly dull in comparison.
