In Train Simulator Classic, the Boston & Albany: Boston – Springfield route is a meticulously crafted homage to the “Lightning Stripe” era of the New York Central (NYC). Developed by G-TraX, this 98-mile expansion (released in March 2023) captures the transition from steam to diesel in New England, offering a perfect blend of high-speed passenger runs and gritty industrial switching.
📍 The Route: The Heart of Massachusetts
The route covers the eastern subdivision of the B&A, providing a high-detail journey from the Atlantic coast to the Connecticut River valley.
- Mainline Operations: Commencing at Boston South Station, the route heads west through Worcester Union Station and terminates at West Springfield.
- Branch Line Diversity: Includes several active branches for local freight work, such as the Millbury, Spencer, and Athol branches (the latter terminating in Ludlow).
- Engineering Landmarks: Features the “Richardson Romanesque” stone stations designed by architect Henry Hobson Richardson, including the beautiful structures at Framingham and Palmer.
- Yard Management: Enthusiasts can manage heavy traffic at major hubs like Beacon Park (Allston) and the massive yard complex at West Springfield.
🚆 Rolling Stock: The “All-Alco” Roster
True to the B&A’s historical reliance on the American Locomotive Company, this pack is a dream for Alco fans.
- Alco PA-1 / PA-2: The pinnacle of passenger diesel design, featured in the iconic NYC Lightning Stripe livery. These units are modeled with advanced air brake systems and the famous “Alco smoke” effects.
- Alco FA-1 / FA-2: The rugged freight counterparts to the PA, designed for heavy-haul manifest duty.
- Alco RS-3: The quintessential road-switcher, versatile enough for branch line locals or secondary passenger service.
- Alco HH600: An early “high hood” switcher, perfect for the tight curves and complex yard tasks at South Boston.
- Period-Correct Fleet: Includes heavyweight baggage and coaches, streamlined passenger cars, and 10 types of freight rolling stock with various New England liveries.
🎮 Gameplay & Scenarios
The route includes 12 career scenarios that put you in the seat of a transition-era engineer.
- Passenger Express: Highballing the New England States or 20th Century Limited sections between Boston and Springfield.
- Commuter Runs: Navigating the “stop-and-go” suburban service between Boston and Worcester.
- Heavy Freight: Tackling the 1% ruling grade at Charlton Hill, the summit of the line.
- Switching Duties: Complex yard work at Beacon Park and West Springfield using the HH600 and RS-3.
🏢 Modern Alternative: Train Sim World 5
If you prefer a 21st-century experience, the MBTA Commuter: Boston – Framingham/Worcester Line for Train Sim World 5 covers the same trackage but in its modern state.
| Feature | Train Simulator Classic (B&A) | Train Sim World 5 (MBTA) |
| Era | Late 1940s – 1950s | Modern Day (2019+) |
| Primary Traction | Alco PA, FA, RS-3 | HSP46 & F40PH-3C |
| Signaling | NYC Semaphores/Searchlights | Modern PTC & Color Lights |
| Rolling Stock | Heavyweights & Alcos | Bi-level “Purple Stripe” Cars |
Standard Price: The Boston & Albany route is typically $39.99 on Steam, often discounted to $19.99 during seasonal sales.
