The Ringbahn (Berlin Circle) is a vital and iconic part of Berlin's S-Bahn network, circling the city and connecting key districts, making it one of the most important commuter routes in the German capital. Its inclusion in Train Sim World 5 would provide players with an opportunity to experience one of Europe's busiest and most intricate urban rail systems, offering a detailed and immersive driving experience. The Ringbahn is approximately 37 kilometers long, serving a crucial role in linking various parts of Berlin, from densely populated city centers to quieter suburban areas. The route is a loop that covers essential districts like Neukölln, Charlottenburg, and Pankow, ensuring players experience a diverse array of urban landscapes. This creates a unique driving challenge as players navigate through both bustling inner-city stations and quieter stretches on the outskirts of the city. The route is historically significant as it was first established in the late 19th century, originally serving freight purposes before being repurposed for passenger services. Over time, it became a symbol of Berlin’s industrial growth and, more recently, its reunification. A key characteristic of the Ringbahn is its high traffic frequency, especially during rush hours. The S-Bahn trains, which operate on the Ringbahn, run at frequent intervals, requiring players to manage tight schedules and efficiently handle high passenger demand. The urban nature of the route means players will encounter a variety of passenger services, creating an immersive simulation of real-world operations. Iconic stations such as S+U Alexanderplatz, S+U Hauptbahnhof, and S Neukölln are all major hubs along the route, linking to other S-Bahn and U-Bahn lines and forming part of Berlin’s intricate transport network. The scenery along the Ringbahn offers a blend of historic and modern elements, with players able to enjoy Berlin’s diverse urban landscapes. From the imposing structures of the city center, such as the Berlin Hauptbahnhof and Brandenburg Gate, to the green, open spaces on the route’s outskirts, the changing scenery enhances the driving experience. The variety of environments provides a rich visual experience, offering a snapshot of Berlin’s evolution through its railways. Driving the Ringbahn in Train Sim World 5 would be enhanced by the modern, well-maintained S-Bahn trains used on the route. These trains are equipped with cutting-edge safety systems such as PZB (German cab signaling system) and LZB (Continuous Automatic Train Control), adding an extra layer of realism to the experience. Managing these systems while adhering to schedules and maintaining punctuality would provide a thrilling challenge for both new and experienced players. The weather also plays a crucial role in the driving experience, with the route exposed to various environmental conditions that players must navigate, from foggy winter mornings to clear, sunny days in the summer. This adds a level of depth and realism as players must adapt their driving style to changing weather patterns. As a commuter-heavy route, players will also experience the challenge of handling packed trains during peak times, requiring precise timing and smooth operation when stopping at stations. Route Map Also includes branches to Flughafen Airport, Konigs Wusterhausern and Spindlersfeld The Ringbahn (Berlin Circle) is key to a vast number of stations and services, making it one of the most critical transport routes in Berlin’s rail network. It provides essential connections between major districts, integrating with various S-Bahn, U-Bahn, regional, and long-distance rail services. Key Stations S+U Berlin Hauptbahnhof: The central hub for long-distance, regional, and S-Bahn services, connecting the Ringbahn with major German and international train routes. S+U Gesundbrunnen: A major northern hub where the Ringbahn intersects with regional and long-distance trains, as well as the North-South S-Bahn lines. S Ostkreuz: One of Berlin’s busiest stations and a key transfer point for almost all S-Bahn routes, including those leading toward Brandenburg. S+U Westkreuz: A western interchange where passengers can transfer to regional trains and major westbound S-Bahn services. S Südkreuz: A key southern hub with long-distance, regional, and S-Bahn connections, providing fast links to destinations beyond Berlin. S Neukölln: An important station in the southern part of the Ringbahn, serving both S-Bahn and U-Bahn connections with strong commuter demand. S Tempelhof: Located near the former Tempelhof Airport, providing access to one of Berlin’s historic landmarks and growing residential areas. Here's the list of stations S41/S42 Gendsbrunnen Schonhauser Allee Prenzlauer Allee Greifswalder Straße Landsberger Allee Storkower Straße Frankfurter Allee Ostkreuz Treptower Park Sonnenallee Neukölln Hermannstraße Tempelhof Südkreuz Schoneberg Innsbrucker Platz Bundesplatz Heidleberger Platz Hohenzollerndamm Halensee Westkreuz Messe Nord/ICC Westend Jungfernheide Busselstraße Westhafen Wedding Gendsbrunnen S85 Bornholmerstraße Schonhauser Allee Prenzlauer Allee Greifswalder Straße Landsberger Allee Storkower Straße Frankfurter Allee Ostkreuz Treptower Park Planterwald Bahmschuleweg Schonweide Bertriesbahnof Schonwide Adlershof Grunau Eichwalde Zeuthen Wildau Konigs Wusterhausern S46 Westend Messe Nord/ICC Westkreuz Schoneberg Innsbrucker Platz Bundesplatz Heidleberger Platz Hohenzollerndamm Halensee Südkreuz Hermannstraße Tempelhof Neukölln Kollingsche Heide Bahmschuleweg Schonweide Bertriesbahnof Schonwide Adlershof Grunau Eichwalde Zeuthen Wildau Konigs Wusterhausern S45 Südkreuz Hermannstraße Tempelhof Neukölln Kollingsche Heide Bahmschuleweg Schonweide Bertriesbahnof Schonwide Adlershof Atliengicke Grunbergallee Flughafen BER Terminal 5 Waßmannsdorf Flughafen BER Terminal 1-2 S47 Hermannstraße Neukölln Kollingsche Heide Bahmschuleweg Schonweide Oberspree Spindlersfeld Rolling Stock There are plenty of rolling stock in the Ringbahn Berlin Circle route that can or could be put in the route, but here are some trains that are in the route. BR 483/484 The newest generation of Berlin S-Bahn trains, also running on S41, S42, and other select services. Featuring improved technology, these units provide a smoother ride and enhanced energy efficiency while maintaining the high-frequency schedule of the Ringbahn formations for these trains are 4 car BR 481 The most common S-Bahn train on the Ringbahn, operating the S41, S42, S45, S46, S47, S8, and S85 services. These modern electric multiple units (EMUs) handle the majority of passenger transport, stopping frequently at all stations with quick acceleration and braking. BR 480 (Separate Add-On) A bit older but still operational S-Bahn train, occasionally used on S8 and S85 services. These classic trains add variety to operations, offering a different driving experience with their unique acceleration and braking characteristics. Key Services S41 (Clockwise) & S42 (Counterclockwise): These core Ringbahn services operate continuously around the loop, providing frequent and essential connections throughout Berlin. S45 (Südkreuz – BER Airport Terminal 1-2): Connects the southern Ringbahn to Berlin Brandenburg Airport, serving air travelers and airport staff. S46 (Königs Wusterhausen – Westend): Links suburban areas southeast of Berlin with the western Ringbahn, offering longer-distance commuter travel. S47 (Spindlersfeld – Hermannstraße): Serves the southeastern suburbs, connecting local residential areas with the Ringbahn at Hermannstraße. S8 (Wildau – Birkenwerder): Cuts across parts of the Ringbahn, linking outlying suburbs with Berlin’s northern and southern districts. S85 (Grünau – Pankow): Provides additional commuter capacity along the eastern Ringbahn and extends service toward the northern district of Pankow. With its high-frequency trains, dense urban environment, and seamless integration with Berlin’s transport network, the Ringbahn would bring an exciting and realistic commuter experience to Train Sim World 5, challenging players with frequent stops, varying traffic conditions, and the need for precise, smooth operations. Why should this route come to TSW5? The Berlin Ringbahn would be an exceptional addition to Train Sim World 5, offering an intense and highly realistic urban rail experience in one of Europe’s busiest and most historically significant cities. As a full-circle railway spanning 37.5 km (23.3 miles) with 27 stations, it serves as a critical link in Berlin’s transport network, operating both clockwise (S41) and counterclockwise (S42) with high-frequency services that keep the city moving. The constant flow of trains, with minimal waiting times, creates a fast-paced and dynamic driving experience, where players must carefully manage schedules, precision braking, and rapid station stops to keep up with real-world operations. The Ringbahn’s history adds another layer of depth to its inclusion in Train Sim World 5. Originally built in the 1870s, it became a vital transport artery for Berlin but suffered major disruptions during the Cold War when the Berlin Wall divided the city. Large portions of the line were cut off, leading to a sharp decline in usage, but after reunification, it was fully restored and modernized. Today, it stands as a symbol of Berlin’s unity and resilience. Driving through this historically rich route would allow players to experience the evolution of Berlin’s railway infrastructure, from its past struggles to its present-day efficiency. What makes the Ringbahn even more compelling is its constant interaction with other transport systems, making it one of the most interconnected railway lines in Germany. As trains navigate the loop, they intersect with ICE and Intercity long-distance trains, regional services (RE/RB), freight operations, Berlin’s U-Bahn, trams, and even major bus hubs, creating a living, breathing railway environment. The presence of AI-controlled trains from different services would add an unparalleled sense of realism, requiring players to adapt to varying traffic conditions and signaling patterns while maintaining the high-speed, frequent-stop nature of Berlin’s S-Bahn. Technically, the Ringbahn offers a completely different operating experience compared to most German routes in Train Sim World 5. Unlike traditional 15 kV AC overhead electrification with PZB/LZB safety systems, Berlin’s S-Bahn runs on a 750V DC third-rail system and uses its own dedicated train control and signaling setup. This would introduce a fresh challenge for players, requiring them to learn and master an entirely new set of railway mechanics. The S-Bahn’s third-rail power supply also means that acceleration and braking feel different, as these trains are built for rapid, high-frequency services rather than long-distance cruising. The rolling stock on the Ringbahn further enhances the experience, with its BR 481 and the modern BR 483/484 offering distinct driving characteristics. The BR 481, introduced in the early 2000s, is a workhorse of Berlin’s S-Bahn fleet, known for its sharp acceleration and recognizable sound. Meanwhile, the BR 483/484, which began service in 2021, features advanced digital systems, improved passenger comfort, and more precise braking and acceleration control. Having both train types available would add variety, allowing players to experience the transition from older to newer technology within the same network. Visually, the Ringbahn is one of the most diverse urban rail routes in Germany. As players navigate the loop, they will pass through a mix of skyscrapers, historic railway stations, industrial freight yards, lush parks, and densely packed residential neighborhoods, each with its own distinct architectural style and atmosphere. The route includes famous railway hubs like Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Ostkreuz, and Westkreuz, where multiple railway lines converge, adding to the excitement of navigating busy junctions. Graffiti-covered rail infrastructure, tunnels, and elevated sections further enhance the immersive feel of the route, making it a true representation of Berlin’s unique railway culture. The continuous nature of the Ringbahn’s full-circle operation also makes it one of the most unique and engaging commuter routes possible in a train simulator. Unlike end-to-end routes where players must reverse or change direction, the seamless loop allows for uninterrupted gameplay, keeping players fully immersed in the flow of Berlin’s railway network. Whether completing a full circuit or running shorter segments, every trip feels fresh due to the high density of services, unpredictable AI interactions, and ever-changing urban scenery. With its high-frequency operation, deep historical significance, interaction with multiple transport modes, unique third-rail power system, distinctive rolling stock, and visually diverse urban landscape, the Berlin Ringbahn would be one of the most immersive and exciting urban rail experiences in Train Sim World 5. It perfectly captures the energy of Berlin’s fast-paced commuter network, challenging players to master the rhythm of its nonstop services while taking in the incredible sights and complexity of one of Germany’s most vital railway lines. Conclusion In conclusion, the Berlin Ringbahn would be a remarkable and highly immersive addition to Train Sim World 5. With its rich historical background, technical uniqueness, and complex interaction with other transport services, it offers a level of realism and excitement that would stand out among the other routes. The combination of high-frequency operations, distinctive rolling stock, and dynamic urban scenery would provide players with a continuously engaging driving experience, while the route’s historical significance and cultural importance would add depth and storytelling elements to the gameplay. Whether navigating through the busy urban core or mastering the challenges of a full-circle, nonstop service, the Berlin Ringbahn would not only enrich the Train Sim World 5 roster but also provide an unparalleled commuter rail experience. It’s a perfect blend of history, technology, and challenging gameplay that would excite both new and veteran players alike. Let's bring the Ringbahn Berlin Circle to TSW5
I'm all for it. A few day ago I played the version on TS classic classic and it is really fantastic, so I can't imagine what it would like to have it in TSW 5. Great suggestion by the way.
Vienna is my thing but hell, if this got done properly and with safety stuff, I would buy it instantly
TSC version is good and as I said in a thread the other week, high time we had something for Berlin in game.
