Trainz/Things You Can Do In Trainz

Trainz is a simulator, not a game. That means that you never "reach the end" and there are always more things to do. Here is a list but it is inevitably incomplete.

Learn how to drive a train

There are two driving modes, DCC which is simpler and CAB which is considerably more challenging and realistic.

Give trains commands which they will obey automatically

These include visiting industries and loading or unloading at them.

Explore the built-in layouts which come with the program

Run the built-in Driver sessions and/or scenarios

These include tutorials and challenges of various types.

Create a layout

The Surveyor module of Trainz makes the inevitably complicated process of making a layout as easy as possible. However, while a small simple layout can be made by anyone, creating a worthwhile layout will take a very considerable amount of time and skill.

Download additional items of all kinds

Additional items are available on Auran's (the program's publisher) web site or a large number of Trainz fansites. Much of this material is freeware but some is payware, requiring a payment per item or a subscription for a period of time. The quality of these additional items varies enormously but some are of the highest standard.

Learn how to obtain assets required by layouts but which aren't readily provided from the same source

This can be very frustrating.

Learn how to correct errors in downloaded assets

Since most additional items are created by Trainz owners with varying skill levels, they sometimes need to be mended before they will work.

Join in discussions on the forums provided by Auran and the Trainz fansites

The forums are an invaluable method of obtaining solutions to problems.

Run downloaded Driver sessions and/or scenarios

These have their own special challenges and enjoyments.

Reskin assets

Apply new textures to existing 3D meshes this is done with a graphics program such as Photoshop, paint.net or GIMP to edit the .tga or .bmp files. The PaintShed program which comes with Trainz can be used to create new skins for existing Paintshed meshes.

Get involved in contributing to the Trainz community

For example by offering help on a forum or acting as a beta tester on a fansite.

Learn how to create 3D models in a program such as Blender or GMAX

While these programs are generally regarded as being difficult to learn, the results can be extremely rewarding.

Learn how to create Driver sessions and/or scenarios which are of a high enough standard to justify distribution to the general Trainz community

Become more involved in the running of a fansite

This may require learning how to use the administration functions of server-based software such as forums and Content Management Systems.

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