In Train Simulator Classic, the Long Island Rail Road: New York – Hicksville route is a high-intensity simulation of the busiest commuter railroad in North America. Developed by Dovetail Games, this 45-mile electrified corridor captures the complex “ping-pong” operations of the LIRR, transitioning from the claustrophobic tunnels of Manhattan to the sprawling suburban junctions of Long Island.
📍 The Route: The Jamaica Hub & Beyond
This add-on focuses on the critical west end of the LIRR system, where multiple branches converge into a high-speed commuter artery.
- The Manhattan Gateway: Includes a detailed recreation of Penn Station, requiring drivers to navigate the East River Tunnels with precision.
- The “Steel Triangle”: Features the legendary Jamaica Station, the central nervous system of the railroad where nearly every branch line intersects. Mastering the signaling and platform stops here is the ultimate test for any virtual engineer.
- Network Coverage: * City Terminal Zone: Connects Penn Station, Atlantic Terminal (Brooklyn), and Long Island City.
- The Main Line: Extends through the “Triple Track” territory out to Hicksville.
- Hempstead Branch: The full branch is included, providing a change of pace from mainline express runs.
- Stub Branches: Small segments of the Oyster Bay and Babylon branches are modeled for realistic AI traffic and short-turn operations.
🚆 Rolling Stock: The M-Series Workhorses
The route centers on the iconic “M-series” Electric Multiple Units (EMUs) that have defined the Long Island commute for decades.
- LIRR M7: The modern backbone of the fleet.
- Technical Features: Includes a fully functional Cab Signaling System (CSS) and Automatic Train Control (ATC). Drivers must acknowledge signal changes in the cab or face a penalty brake application.
- Authentic Audio: Features high-fidelity sound recordings of the traction motors and the distinct LIRR door chimes.
- LIRR M3 (DLC): For a retro 1980s experience, the LIRR M3 EMU Add-On is available separately. It features the classic wood-grain interior, manual master controller, and specialized scenarios.
🎮 Gameplay & Scenarios
The route includes 7 Career Scenarios and 3 Railfan Mode locations, ranging from peak-hour rushes to specialized weekend services.
- “Summer of Hell”: A challenging scenario based on real-world 2017 track work that forced major service changes and tight headway management.
- Saturday Stakes: A lighter weekend service that emphasizes station-stop accuracy and timetable adherence.
- Quick Drive: Fully compatible with Quick Drive, allowing the use of any owned third-rail equipment across the network.
🛒 Winter 2025 Pricing
As of December 28, 2025, the LIRR route is available as a DLC for Train Simulator Classic.
| Item | Standard Price | Sale Price (Dec 2025) |
| LIRR: New York – Hicksville Route | $29.99 | $11.99 (60% Off) |
| LIRR M3 EMU Add-On | $19.99 | $7.99 (60% Off) |
