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31 of 33 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Two unique Japanese routes, 1 Nov 2003
The first thing about this add-on is that there are two routes contained on the CD, not one! The second thing is that it is rather a different package to most train sim add-ons.Both of the routes on here, the 'Hokkaido Route' and the 'Usui Pass' are very novel routes, demonstrating the uniqueness of Japanese Railways and engineering. Starting with the 'Hokkaido Route', there are 7 different types of train on this route. The route is 137km long and is a double-track line which is electrified. The trains are high-speed and you will notice while driving them, they are silent on the inside. This is not poor sound quality, the high standard of engineering on these trains means that while either driving the train, or relaxing as a passenger, you will be able to do it in nearly complete silence! It may be a bit unnerving at first, but you'll get used to it. There are only 5 activities on this route, but as I said before, this route is more of a novel driving experience rather than an in-depth, full-scale add-on. The second route, 'The Usui Pass', on the 'Usui Toge Railway', was built to fill a difficult gap on the mainline from Tokyo to Naoetsu. It is mainly single-line and is not electrified. It is a wonderful feat of engineering as the route is mainly built through the mountains, using vast amount of tunnels. It is a very scenic route, once you get out of the tunnels! There is only one diesel engine, as this engine had to be built specifically for this route. It needed to be very powerful to climb right up through the mountain pass. While driving it, you will hear constant clanking, as the engine struggles up the side of vast mountains. You will rarely reach a fast speed! It's a tough journey. Sadly, the 'Usui Toge Railway' is now closed, so having this route will allow you to experience it forever. There are six activities on this route. Overall this is a very good add-on. The graphics are good and the rolling stock, though limited, is very well designed. There have been concerns about the lack of activites, but when you consider you are getting 11 activities altogether and two routes, then that is more than some other add-ons which were received quite well by the general public. Worth having for the novel nature of the two routes. Another bonus point is that it doesn't need a total, high-spec PC. If your PC runs Pro Train, then it will run this. Just a normal spec PC should be fine.
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