Not content with dominating the world of the sports simulation, EA is moving on to… train sims. In the least foreseeable move since that time George Weah signed for Manchester City, the mega publisher will release Rail Simulator (a working title - this being EA, they're probably going for some kind of license) on PC. The press release breathlessly explains all:
"Rail Simulator will offer the opportunity for players to take charge of steam, diesel and electric trains on real routes in the UK and Germany. Challenging and fun gameplay will even enable players to design their own ideal journey routes."
Development is in the experienced hands of Kuju Entertainment, previously responsible for Microsoft Train Simulator, which sold a million copies and apparently inspired over 40 third-party developed expansion packs.
There is already a dedicated website where you can download a lovely wallpaper of a man on a station platform impatiently looking at his watch – well it's realistic then. I especially like the bit on the home page where it says, "for everyone from the casual train fan to the dedicated enthusiast." What exactly constitutes a casual train fan? Someone who just gets the train once in a while? Perhaps absent-mindedly notes the number? Maybe feels a frisson of excitement when a Pullman coach passes by? I don't know.
It's due in 2006. You can add your own delay jokes.
