As a long-time Train Sim World player and a New York City Subway enthusiast, I believe the IND A Line is one of the most deserving candidates for a future TSW route. It is one of the longest, most diverse, and most historically significant subway lines in the entire MTA system, combining rich cultural heritage, dramatic scenery transitions, modern rolling stock, and a uniquely complex operational structure. Below is a detailed proposal explaining why the A Line would be an exceptional addition to TSW. 1. Historical and Cultural Importance The A Line opened in 1932 as part of the IND (Independent Subway System), representing a new era of city-built rapid transit in New York. It quickly became one of the backbone routes of Manhattan and Brooklyn, and remains a major north-south corridor connecting Washington Heights, Harlem, Midtown, Downtown Brooklyn, and the Rockaways. Its cultural influence is also internationally recognized. Duke Ellington’s world-famous jazz composition Take the A Train immortalized the route, making it arguably the most iconic subway line in the world. The neighborhoods it passes through—such as Harlem and Washington Heights—carry deep historical significance and strong cultural identity, further enhancing the A Line’s reputation. 2. Diverse Scenery and Perfect Fit for TSW’s Immersion The A Line offers an unusually wide variety of scenery, making it ideal for TSW’s rendering capabilities. Few routes worldwide combine dense urban tunnels, community-level neighborhood stations, open wetlands, and direct oceanfront rail running within a single service. Manhattan (Deep Underground) The route begins in large IND-style tunnels, with wide platforms and distinctive tilework. Trains run at high speeds through long, uninterrupted underground sections that showcase the classic NYC subway atmosphere. Brooklyn (Underground and Elevated) This segment includes major interchanges like Jay St–MetroTech, community-focused stations such as Nostrand Ave, and the operationally important Euclid Ave terminal area, which provides opportunities for yard movements and short-turn services. Queens and the Rockaways (Fully Elevated) This is the most visually dramatic portion of the line. Trains cross the Jamaica Bay wetlands, pass through Broad Channel, and run along the coastline towards Rockaway Park and Far Rockaway. The elevated track with open ocean views is unlike anything else currently available in TSW. The seamless transition from skyscrapers to residential neighborhoods, then to nature reserves and beachside running, would provide a uniquely immersive experience. 3. Station Variety and Architectural Character The A Line’s stations exhibit a wide range of designs, reflecting different eras and geographic conditions. Washington Heights Stations Stations such as 175th St, 181st St, and 190th St are built extremely deep due to the surrounding terrain. They feature elevator-only access and cavern-like tunnel structures, making them visually distinctive. 42nd St–Port Authority Bus Terminal One of the busiest transit hubs in New York, offering complex transfer architecture and heavy pedestrian activity—ideal for bringing a sense of scale to TSW’s NYC network. Euclid Ave A major operational node with tail tracks and yard connections, suitable for AI patterns, turning services, and scenario-based movements. Broad Channel and Rockaway Stations Fully exposed to the elements with sweeping ocean and wetland views, these stations create an environment rarely seen in subway simulations. 4. R211 Rolling Stock: A Modern and Highly Requested Train The A Line currently operates with the newest generation of New York City Subway rolling stock: the R211A and R211T (open-gangway version). These trains would significantly enhance the modern urban driving experience in TSW. Key features include: Fully digital cab with modern control panels High acceleration and improved braking performance Open-gangway cars (R211T) offering a new interior experience Bright LED destination signs and dynamic onboard route maps Modern propulsion and sound design CBTC-ready architecture Adding the R211 would meet strong community demand for updated NYC Subway equipment and introduce a visually and technically advanced train to the game. 5. Complex Operations: Express, Local, and Multiple Branches The A Line features one of the most complex and dynamic service patterns in the MTA system. Express Operations For most of the day, the A Line runs express through Manhattan, including the long nonstop stretch between 59th St and 125th St—perfect for high-speed underground operation. Local Operations During late nights and certain time windows, the A Line switches to local service, offering more frequent stops and slower, more technical driving. Three Branches in Queens The route splits into three distinct terminals: Lefferts Blvd Rockaway Park Far Rockaway These branches create numerous opportunities for: Short-turn services Peak-hour directional operations Rockaway express runs Euclid-based yard scenarios Nighttime local service patterns The variety would naturally produce a wide range of timetable depth and scenario potential. 6. Summary: Why the A Line Is an Ideal TSW Route The A Line excels in nearly every category relevant to TSW route design: Long route length suitable for full end-to-end runs Large variety of scenery (tunnels, elevated, wetlands, oceanfront) Modern R211 stock providing high player interest Complex express/local operations offering gameplay depth Several distinct terminal branches Strong cultural and historical recognition worldwide Iconic status among NYC Subway lines It stands out as one of the most complete, diverse, and meaningful urban routes that could be added to TSW.
