
If you are a fan of Dovetail Games’ Train Sim World 5, then you are aware of just how much DLC is released for that game. In addition to our previous review of the West Coast Main Line DLC, we also have the MBTA Commuter pack. Let’s check out what this entails and see whether it’s worth your hard-earned money.
Heading to Boston
Just what is included in the MBTA Commuter pack, priced at £29.99 on Steam it’s not a cheap add-on. Let’s head on and see just what you can expect.
Gameplay
As with every Train Sim World 5 DLC, you are going to have a familiar gameplay experience. Albeit with some new colours on track. Included in this particular pack are a number of new locomotives in the MBTA livery, which is a nice purple. Alongside the new trains is the 45 mile MBTA Boston to Framingham/Worcester line from 2019. Meaning you are going to be taking a trip into history.

If the new trains are a little bit daunting, fear not. A whole host of tutorials can be found in the Training Centre. There are also several Scenarios and an authentic Timetable. Not to mention you can play in Conductor Mode. It just expands on what is already an incredible experience for all train fanatics.
You can explore more of the route in the Free Roam mode, and even – if you have it installed – transfer between the MBTA Commuter and the NEC Boston. Opening up a greater experience for those just wanting a somewhat relaxed gameplay experience. I say somewhat as we all know that things aren’t always going to go to plan when playing Train Sim World 5. I surely can’t be the only person who has overshot a station. Perhaps even ran a red signal?
Graphics & Audio
The trains in the MBTA Commuter add-on are feature-packed. The cabs are all rendered incredibly, from the many MANY switches to the general environment as you walk through the train. I’ve never been to Boston, or anywhere along the line to be able to confirm accuracy. Dovetail Games always do a sterling job at recreating as much of the environment as possible. So the MBTA Commuter add-on should be the same.

I always enjoy just walking around a few of the train stations, just to enjoy the rush when a train pulls in. Seeing all the peoples faces as they go about their business. It’s always a shame when the same face or character model pops up though. Not enough to reduce the fun of playing the game, but enough to be noticed.
Longevity
As with a lot of the content within Train Sim World 5. You can end up playing the aspects of this DLC for quite some time. Whether that’s using the trains on different routes, or just being a passenger along the route to enjoy the scenery. However you play there is always something for you.
Final Thoughts
As with all other add-ons for Train Sim World 5, this one adds even more to the base game. The MBTA Commuter pack brings a spot of colour and another historic route. A joy to play and extend the life of an already established experience.
The MBTA Commuter add-on for Train Sim World 5 gets the Thumb Culture Gold Award.
Disclaimer: A code was received to write this review.
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