In Train Simulator Classic, the Hudson Line: New York – Croton-Harmon route is a high-density masterpiece of Northeast Corridor railroading. Stretching 60 miles along the scenic east bank of the Hudson River, this expansion challenges drivers to navigate one of the most complex commuter and intercity hubs in the world, transitioning from the subterranean depths of Manhattan to the expansive river vistas of the Hudson Valley.
📍 Route Geography & Hubs
The Hudson Line is unique for serving two of New York City’s legendary rail terminals, offering vastly different operational experiences.
- Manhattan Gateways: Includes both the cavernous Grand Central Terminal (serving Metro-North) and the modern underground maze of New York Penn Station (serving Amtrak).
- The Bronx & Beyond: The tracks wind through the dense urban landscape of the Bronx and the massive Oak Point Yard before hugging the riverbank for a high-speed run toward the major maintenance hub at Croton-Harmon.
- Triple-Threat Operations: Unlike single-purpose routes, you must manage three distinct types of traffic:
- Metro-North: High-frequency commuter service with tight timetables.
- Amtrak: Intercity “Empire Service” runs with higher speeds and fewer stops.
- CSX: Heavy freight switching and manifest hauls through the industrial Bronx corridor.
🚆 Rolling Stock & “Dual-Mode” Tech
The add-on features a versatile fleet of equipment, including specialized locomotives designed for the unique constraints of New York’s tunnel systems.
- P32AC-DM (Metro-North & Amtrak): The “Dual-Mode” workhorse. It operates as a diesel locomotive on the open river sections but can switch to Third Rail (Electric) mode for smoke-free operation into Manhattan’s tunnels.
- M7A EMU: The quintessential Metro-North commuter electric multiple unit, featuring rapid acceleration and “Door Control” simulation for busy station stops.
- CSX Freight Power: Includes the veteran SD40-2 and the environmentally friendly 3GS-21B “GenSet” for yard work.
- Passenger Fleet: Features Shoreliner commuter cars and Amtrak’s iconic Amfleet coaches.
🛠️ The “Virtual Extension” (2025 Must-Have)
While the official DLC ends at Croton-Harmon, the community has significantly expanded the route’s reach.
- Hudson Line Extension (Steam Workshop): This massive community project—fully compatible with the 2025 core update—extends the trackage north to Poughkeepsie and all the way to Albany-Rensselaer.
- Requirements: To use the extension, you typically need to own the base Hudson Line DLC and the New York–New Haven route for additional assets.
- Enhanced Physics: Many users pair this with the P32AC-DM Enhancement Pack from Searchlight Simulations to fix the default “sticky” brakes and add high-fidelity engine audio.
🛒 Winter 2025 Pricing & Sale Info
As of December 26, 2025, the Hudson Line is a top-tier recommendation during the Steam Winter Sale.
| Item | Standard Price | Sale Price (Dec 2025) |
| Hudson Line: New York – Croton-Harmon | $29.99 | $11.99 (60% Off) |
| NYC Area Route Bundle | $59.99 | $23.99 |
| Rail Subscription | $10.99/mo | $7.69 (Intro Offer) |
