Train Sim World 7 Neckartalbahn: Heidelberg – Neckarelz
TSG's German route: 53 km, 1974 era, BR 23 steam and electric mainline through the Neckar valley.
What Neckartalbahn covers
Neckartalbahn: Heidelberg – Neckarelz is an upcoming Train Sim World 7 add-on from TSG (Tactical Simulation Games). The route covers 53 kilometres of double-track, fully electrified mainline railway winding through the picturesque Neckar valley in southwestern Germany, set in the year 1974.
The line is known for its smooth curves, tunneled sections, and striking riverside views. It blends efficient rail traffic with one of Germany’s most beautiful natural landscapes — the Neckar valley with its vineyards, castles, and historic towns.
Dual traction: electric and steam
What makes Neckartalbahn particularly distinctive is its dual traction philosophy. TSG is implementing both electric multiple-unit and steam locomotive operations on the same route:
Electric traction: The route supports standard 1974-era electric operations, reflecting the electrified mainline that had been established across much of West Germany’s rail network by that period.
Steam traction — BR 23: The BR 23 (Bayernclass 23) is a German steam locomotive that TSG is bringing to Train Sim World 7 with significant technical improvements. TSG has created a modified firebox Simugraph node to address player feedback from previous steam content. The firebox behaviour in earlier TSG releases generated too much steam at lower boiler outputs and took hours to heat up or cool down with no way for the player to “shut it down.” These changes aim to address those concerns and deliver a more satisfying and realistic steam experience.
TSG has also started sound recordings at the Darmstadt Museum to capture authentic BR 23 audio.
1974 era setting
The route is set in 1974, a specific moment in German railway history. This means:
- Period-correct signalling and safety equipment
- Era-appropriate liveries and rolling stock
- Real-world timetable practices from that year
- The distinctive visual character of West German railways in the mid-1970s
- Station environments and infrastructure as they existed in 1974
The 1974 setting gives the route a different feel from the contemporary core routes in Train Sim World 7, offering players a taste of German railway heritage alongside the modern railway.
Route geography
The Neckartalbahn runs through one of Germany’s most scenic valleys:
- Heidelberg: Starting point, famous university city on the Neckar
- Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof: Major station with significant infrastructure
- Neckarelz: Northern terminus, where the route connects with other lines
The 53-kilometre route features 15 stations for players to explore, each modelled with period-appropriate detail. The valley setting means varied terrain: riverside views, vineyard-covered hillsides, tunnels, and the historic architecture of towns along the Neckar.
Technical improvements to steam
TSG has addressed specific player feedback about steam simulation in Train Sim World. The modified firebox Simugraph node allows:
- Adjustable fire behaviour without massively affecting past content
- More realistic steam generation at lower boiler outputs
- The ability to “shut down” the fire when needed
- Better AI chuff sounds aligned to the new firebox model
These are significant improvements for players who have been requesting more satisfying steam operations. TSG has been transparent about seeking player feedback on these changes and is open to further adjustments.
Release status
Neckartalbahn has no confirmed release date. It is listed as in development on the August 2026 roadmap. Follow the roadmap for updates.
Related pages
- Routes Hub — compare all available and upcoming routes
- Roadmap — track Neckartalbahn and other add-ons
- Nürnberg–Würzburg — the launch-day German core route
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the most common questions.
When does Neckartalbahn come out?
No release date has been confirmed. It is listed as in development on the August 2026 roadmap.
What traction is included?
Both electric traction for 1974 mainline operations and the BR 23 steam locomotive. TSG has made significant technical improvements to the steam simulation based on player feedback.
Is this a launch-day route?
No. Neckartalbahn is a post-launch add-on from TSG. The launch-day German route is Nürnberg–Würzburg.
What era is the route set in?
1974. This gives the route a specific historical character distinct from the contemporary core routes.
What improvements has TSG made to steam?
TSG created a modified firebox Simugraph node to address previous complaints about steam generation behaviour and AI chuff sounds. They also recorded new audio at the Darmstadt Museum.