After seeing some discussion about this in other threads, I started wondering what the TSW community's general opinion is about a full-blown Route Editor in a future TSW game. Of course, TSW already has a headstart with custom liveries and scenarios, and many video games officially sponsor similar mods. For example, the MLB: The Show series features a stadium editor that allows users to create both fantasy and historic ballparks. Farming Simulator also features an official modding community with loads of brilliant content, not just tools and vehicles but intensely detailed maps, many of which rival Giants' own content. And yes, these all available on both PC and (modern) consoles. (I personally do not own a PC to play other "mod-friendly" train sims, which is another reason why I'm asking here.) I've kept the poll responses intentionally sparse so that folks can follow up with their thoughts. Cheers!
I voted yes but have to honestly assess how useful it would be to the hobby level route builder who does not have access to or means to buy the expensive high end 3D modelling and graphics/art packages that might be needed to get custom assets in there. It would also have to come with a comprehensive manual as the few images we've seen, it looks fiendishly complex compared to MSTS (TSRE), Trainz Surveyor or the TSC Editor.
Fair points. I'm thinking it would have to be something along the lines of Farming Simulator, which has a standalone PC editor (or so I'm told). And yes, it would rely upon quality content from experienced modders. Of course, none of us on the user end would need any of this, simply a list of available mods to choose from.
I honestly don’t think an editor is ever coming. A better scenario editor, a consist editor and the ability to place rolling stock to fill sidings would be a good start though.
It really doesn’t matter if anyone here thinks it is needed or wanted because it is a case of whether it is possible or not. So far DTG have said it isn’t possible so until that changes it is best to forget about it.
I think the most comparable model for a Route Editor with TSW wouldn't be MLB or Farming Simulator. MLB: The Show's stadium editor gives you an asset library, and all you have to do is make it look good. There's no technical stuff to be really done. You simply just change the scenery around the Park. Farming Simulator's modding, I would argue, is more similar to TSW's Creators Club than a TSC-style Route Editor. A route editor not only requires you to build the scenery, as done in MLB, but also lay the track, place and configure the signalling, build stations/yards, set up a timetable or make scenarios (and to do this, set up the paths, spawn points, etc), place lighting assets, etc. And realistically, if you want to recreate a real life route, you'll need custom assets for stations and signage. Most of this stuff could only be achieved if you play on PC, and have patience and ability. The first one could be followed with a model similar to Fortnite's Creative 2.0. I don't play it much anymore, but I'm aware that the situation is basically this: PC users get access to a modified version of Unreal Engine called Unreal Engine for Fortnite (UEFN), which allows them to edit almost absolutely everything about a map. Console users only get access to the pre-existing 'Creative' tools, which allow them to place assets, spawners, and such, on an existing map. This restricts them to a small item/object library. However, the creations of both sets of players can be played by the opposite - so console get to play UEFN Creations. For TSW, however, this would basically just mean that PC could get the fun toys, and Console players, well, we just have to take what we can get from the PC Folk. Here's hoping.
Super insightful post, thank you! I had no idea about the Fortnite modding. That part I quoted is pretty much how Farming Simulator plays out. As a console player, I haven't the first clue about how modding works. But I have the same access to quality mods as everyone else. I suspect that there are those who get far more enjoyment out of modding than actually playing the game, but I really don't know. I agree that a TSW Route Editor would be complex compared to MLB's Stadium Editor (which is fully in-game). However, Farming Simulator maps can be extremely complex, requiring any variety of crops, jobs, vehicles, architecture, refineries, shops, and custom scenery. I am actually stunned that in many cases, it's the work of a single person. Then again, farming maps are also confined to a relatively small area compared to train routes, which may be why DTG don't believe a Route Editor is possible. (Strictly for the record, Sony San Diego stated for years that a Stadium Editor wasn't possible... until it was.)
We probably do not need a full route editor. Building a route is a huge task and even creation of rolling stock is far more complex that it used to be for TSC. Demands are far higher. If you really want to do that, get a developer license. I would love to have a tool to create gameplay, scenarios, timetables with at least the same capabilities as the TSC scenario editor, which is not bad and hopefully it will be more reliable in future, though content sharing got completely out of hand in TSC. The current scenario planner sucks horribly and promises for a version 2.0 are still nowhere to be seen. Another broken promise.
I don't care because I love to drive, and I don't work much with the editor. But I think it will be good going forward. Vote in
