I doubt I'm the first to think of this, but it seems to me that one of the biggest challenges about making a complete route is that most of them are linear, and very long, for example could we ever expect to see a Euston to Glasgow WCML, and more to the point who would play it regularly that makes the effort worthwhile? So making a circular route such a merry go round means you could have a complete route that only needs 20 or so miles of track and scenery, but the gameplay could be much more immersive. Imagine the coal fired power station is running to an AI generated varying demand (just like real life) which varies the demand for coal usage; so we have a varying AI generated train load demand. You could feature three main elements to the game all the time trying to match the demand of the power station: - Loading the wagons at the colliery, maybe even add an operable digger / crane for loading hoppers. - Choice of Class 37 and 56 traction for an authentic 80s and 90s feel. 37s for yard shunting and building up the train. 56 for hauling to and from the power station. Probably a Class 20 too in the mix. Could also run in more up to date mode (not that there are any coal powered fire stations anymore) with the Class 66 - unloading coal in the pattern / timetable at the power station. Points for getting the loaded wagons ready to go (so a shunting challenge) Points for keeping the power station going (and vice versa) Could have some form of random breakdown failures so rescue scenario to keep the coal flowing etc.
