Multiplayer

[train]

This might sound a bit rude, but it just seems like most of the routes that are done with multiplayer are like big file and payware routes.

I was wondering if any of you would rather do something else other than those.

Please don't flame me.

[nrhus]

I was kind of wondering the same thing. I mean, I've tried downloading some of these routes, but they are HUGE. And I just don't have a reliable enough internet connection to get them done. Plus, I have never done a multiplayer session before, and some of these already established sessions with experienced people are a little intimidating for a newbie. I would also be hoping to see a multiplayer group that used the default routes.

[jdtrainman]

Big Routes...

I can't speak for anyone but myself but I gladly provide a CD-by-mail service for my routes. As for using default routes there's no reason why someone can't do it other than the fact that they aren't that spectacular.... There is no restriction on what routes can be MP'ed at all and this is not a formal "group", per se. The forum is just a central gathering point.... I would like to encourage you to conduct your own sessions using whatever route you and whoever chooses to participate wish to use. Post your call-up here and I'll put it on the calendar!!!

Newbies...

All are welcome! You'll find that this is a growing aspect of train-simming and anyone with an interest and willingness to play will find a group of helpful and fun people to get you started. The best suggestions I can make to help you ease into the MP aspect are these:

1) Get a scanner or listen in to some of the various live audio rail scanner feeds online. You'll quickly begin to pick up on the lingo and the way things tend to go...

2) Check in as an "observer" on any of the open MP sessions. Take a listen while you test-run the route on your computer to get comfortable with the route that is in use.

3) Just mark up for an MP session and go for it. You'll make mistakes but guess what? They happen on the REAL railroads, too! You'll find a good-spirited comaraderie here.... In other words, we'll tease you when you screw up but you'll get a good laugh and have a good time sharing your Train Simming experience with others!

Trust me on this: it's more fun when you can do something with a group of people that share your enthusiasm than to just play with yourself!

Give it a shot! You'll get hooked, too!!!

JBD
Forum Moderator

[BlakeTyner]

Yeah, drop in on a multiplayer session and just observe (be sure to put "observing" in your name tho) to get a feel for how it all works. The lingo isn't hard to master, and there are some folks who'd be glad to help out. In fact, Brian just hosted a training session a couple of days ago to assist folks.

If you don't have a scanner, listening to the online ones (preferably for the route you'd like to run) would probably be a good idea, as each railroad has its own quirks.

As far as file size, someone would probably be willing to burn a route to a CD and mail it to you (the freeware ones, that is). The M&M route is split into 3 seperate downloads for easier access. I have dialup and I generally just set things to download overnight. If you have problems with disconnects, use a program that allows you to pause the download.

Above all remember that we were all new once, even us "real" railroaders!

[SVTS]

As one who has joined in and conducted MP's, I can tell you that the routes are chosen based on one's enjoyment for that route, in my case, Tehachapi Pass. I have been to the real Tehachapi several times, and photographed the area, and enjoy running it weekly. Not everyone has Tehachapi, but for those that do, I plan to conduct more MP's on it as time goes on. Same true for the CSX M&M sub, which is run by kinnamon. The routes are chosen by those that run the sessions, so if there is a route you want to run a MP on, do it yourself. Not to sound mean or nothing, but thats all there is to it.