Building Railways
The first main feature of Railway Operation Simulator is the process of creating railways.
The option to enter railway building mode is from the mode menu. It is possible to start from a blank canvas, or edit an already loaded railway. On the top row of this menu you can select to edit the elements, add text, name stations and locations, set the element distance and speed, change the signal type and add user graphics.
All track elements are placed on a grid, with a maximum of one track element per grid square. It is possible for text and user graphics to be placed anywhere on the screen. (Not aligned with the grid.)
Once the elements have been placed and locations have been named, the railway can be linked and made into a .rly file. Although not necessary, adding speed and distance information to elements is highly recommended, especially if the railway reflects the real world. This is because it will mean a timetable will fit the railway correctly.
The user also has the option to add Preferred Directions to the railway, this will allow any operator to use the preferred and automatic routing when operating the railway.
Track Element Types
Basic Track Elements
The program includes several basic track elements, these include straight tracks, 90 and 45 degree curves and track crossings.
Junctions
There are both junctions in both directions in 90 and 45 degree forms. These elements have a speed and distance value both for the straight track and the curved section.
Signals
Signals come in four varieties: two, three, and four aspect, and depot signals. They can be placed in any of the eight directions, however there are some restrictions on their placement.
Continuations
Continuations allow the user to route trains on or off the map. These can be placed in all eight orientations, but trains can only enter and exit at continuations in the four non-diagonal directions.
Gap Tracks
Gap elements allow you to split a track and have a portal between two points on the map. These are especially helpful if you want to split your route into sections to fit on one screen, or want to add a visual tunnel or bridge.
Level Crossings
Level crossings can be placed on top of any straight track.
Stations
Stations can be created using a variety of station elements. Any adjacent station elements, which could be platforms, concourses, bridges, or tunnels, will be connected together when a name is applied. All stations need to be named before the route can be validated.