The pursuit of free content for train simulation software, such as DTG's Train Simulator Classic, represents a significant area of interest within the modelling community. This guide examines the available avenues for acquiring freeware, including routes, locomotives, rolling stock, and scenarios, based on information from community-run platforms and dedicated file libraries. It outlines the primary sources, the types of content available, and the essential legal and practical considerations for users in the UK and beyond.
Primary Sources for Freeware Content
Several key platforms serve as hubs for distributing user-generated content (UGC) for train simulation. These platforms vary in their scope, curation, and the specific types of content they host.
Railworks America File Library
Railworks America (RWA) operates a curated file library for Train Simulator Classic. As of March 2023, the service is described as free, unlimited, and does not require registration for downloads. The library is noted for its inspection process, where each item is reviewed before publication, contributing to its reputation within the community. Content available through RWA includes routes, scenarios, models, repaints, and sounds. Specific categories listed on the platform include repaints and addons for the RW&A Lakeside route, scenarios for the same route, addons and scenarios for the GN Cascadian route, an assortment of engine repaints, and Britkits freeware base packages by Dick Cowen. The library also hosts rolling stock repaints, accessories, sound enhancements, route and scenario collections, scenery models, and miscellaneous files such as documents and graphics. A disclaimer from DTG (Dovetail Games) is prominently featured, stating that the user-generated content has not been screened or tested by RailSimulator.com Limited and may adversely affect product use.
RSRailworks (Google Sites)
The RSRailworks site, hosted on Google Sites, provides freeware content specifically for Train Simulator Classic. The site lists several projects in development, all of which are intended to be free releases. These include an upgraded pack for the Class 08 shunter, featuring bug fixes, improvements, and a complete cab and exterior re-texture. Another project is Ashmore Yard, a fictional depot route in early stages, noted for being entirely custom-made, meaning it would not require any additional asset packs. A third project is the Class 35 'Hymek' locomotive, also in early modelling stages and confirmed to be a 100% free release. The site explicitly notes that these are works in progress and may change before their final release.
TrainSim.com Forums (File Library)
The TrainSim.com forums host a file library where users can search for and download various add-ons. The platform includes a copyright notice, reminding users that downloads may contain copyrighted material and that developers may have specific restrictions on the use of these files. Users are advised to read and honour the provided licences. The library includes a search function and categorises files, though the specific categories available in the provided data are not detailed beyond the general notice. The platform allows copyright owners to request removal of their material via a "Report File" link.
Community Recommendations and Other Sites
Third-party guides, such as the one found on steamsolo.com, aggregate recommendations for websites offering free train simulation content. These guides often highlight sites that have been established for several years. One such site mentioned is Golden Age Rails, which is reported to host free locomotives (including SD7s in various railway liveries), self-propelled passenger cars, rolling stock, and scenery items like buildings, trestles, telegraph lines, grain elevators, and oil tanks. The guide also notes that some content on such sites may be payware. Another category mentioned is websites offering auto-installing repaint content, reminiscent of packs from earlier simulation platforms like MSTS.
Types of Freeware Available
The freeware ecosystem for Train Simulator Classic encompasses a wide range of content types, allowing users to significantly expand their simulation experience without direct cost.
Routes and Scenarios
Freeware routes include both fictional and prototypical designs. The Ashmore Yard project, for example, is a fictional, compact depot route. Other platforms list specific routes such as the RW&A Lakeside and GN Cascadian, for which dedicated addons and scenarios are available. Scenarios, which provide specific operational tasks or narratives within a route, are also a common freeware category, often tied to specific routes.
Locomotives and Rolling Stock
A variety of locomotive models are available as freeware. The RSRailworks site lists the Class 08 shunter and Class 35 'Hymek' as upcoming projects. The RWA library mentions engine repaints and Britkits freeware base packages. Other sites, as per community guides, offer locomotives like SD7s and self-propelled passenger cars. Rolling stock repaints and accessories are also widely distributed, with some base models potentially requiring a prior purchase (noted in the RWA library description for some engine repaints).
Assets and Scenery
Custom scenery and assets are essential for creating detailed routes. The RWA library includes scenery and other models. The Ashmore Yard project emphasises custom-made buildings, track, and trees. Other sources mention scenery items such as buildings, trestles, realistic telegraph lines, grain elevators, and oil tanks. Sound file enhancements are also available as freeware.
Legal and Practical Considerations
Engaging with freeware content requires attention to several important legal and practical points.
Intellectual Property and Licensing
All user-generated content is subject to copyright. The RWA library and TrainSim.com both include disclaimers highlighting that the content remains the intellectual property of the original creators and, in some cases, may include elements owned by RailSimulator.com Limited. Users are explicitly instructed to read the readme files that accompany downloads for specific copyright information and installation instructions. The RailWorks End User Licence Agreement (EULA) sets out the rules for using user-generated content. Redistribution, modification, or commercial use without permission is typically prohibited.
System Compatibility and Requirements
Freeware content is designed for specific versions of the simulation software. The RWA library is intended for DTG's Train Simulator Classic (including versions 2013, 2014, and 2015). Some content, particularly older US-themed addons, may require the Railworks US asset pack. Users should verify compatibility with their specific installation. Furthermore, the DTG disclaimer notes that user-generated content has not been tested and may cause issues with the software, potentially affecting support eligibility.
Sourcing and Verification
The reliability of freeware sources varies. Official or curated platforms like the RWA library, which inspect content before publication, are generally considered more reliable than unverified third-party blogs or forums. Users are advised to prioritise content from established, reputable community sites and to exercise caution with files from less familiar sources, checking for user reviews or comments where possible.
Conclusion
The landscape of free content for Train Simulator Classic is vibrant and community-driven, offering substantial value to enthusiasts seeking to expand their simulation library without additional cost. Key resources include the curated Railworks America File Library, project-specific sites like RSRailworks, and community forums such as TrainSim.com. A wide array of content—from custom routes and scenarios to locomotives, rolling stock, and scenery—is available. However, users must navigate this ecosystem with an awareness of the legal framework governing intellectual property, the potential compatibility and stability issues noted in disclaimers, and the varying reliability of different distribution platforms. Adherence to copyright rules and careful source selection are essential for a compliant and satisfactory experience.