Opinions on "Fake Trains" during multiplayers

[SVTS]

With only a few people signed up so far for my TPII session tommorow night, the thought crossed my mind about having "fake trains" runnning the route to increase traffic so you don't have the usuall lulls with some multiplayers. Just wondering what peoples take on the idea is in a effort to put more action in the sessions.

[jdtrainman]

Sounds like a good plan but here's another take....

For the upcoming GM&O sessions, I have actually created 13 activities which put AI traffic on the line to simulate the other trains which are operating during the time span we'll be running... It's a little more work but driving in explore mode for 2-3 hours isn't exactly exciting or stimulating.... At least some non-GM&O traffic is a break from the empty rail syndrome....

My $0.02...

JBD

[SVTS]

I had thought about that Jim, but the downside is not everyone goes the same speed, and with a route like Tehachapi, results have always varied among my previously uploaded activites. Some people meet a train at Bena, while others will meet the same train at other locations.

I agree that explore mode is quite dull, but adding the realism of a dispatcher helps move things along.

[3DRailHound]

Hi Chris,

I have to agree with Jim about creating a set of activities (maybe six to start out), and then use them as templates..regarding timing, I wouldn't worry about that as that would only affect someone who is not operating their train properly..and eventually they will get better with practice.

Anyhow, I think Jim is on the right track, and if you follow suit you would probably see more interest in your multi-player sessions, including myself as long as I don't have to download or use anything other than the default equipment that comes with the route..make it easy to participate..at least untill you get a good sized regular group participating on a regular basis.

Btw, that would also be something I would be willing to support on our website as well :)