Train Sim World 7: LIRR Commuter: New York - Long Beach, Hempstead & Hicksville Route Add-On is a train simulation experience centered on the Long Island Rail Road, one of North America's busiest commuter networks. Players operate electric multiple units across an expanded 57-mile section of track that runs from New York Penn Station and Atlantic Terminal through Jamaica and onward to Hicksville, Hempstead, Long Beach, and Belmont Park. The add-on emphasizes realistic commuter operations with modern equipment and a dense schedule of passenger services.
Gameplay
Core gameplay revolves around driving the LIRR M9 and updated M7 electric multiple units on third-rail power. Both trains feature highly detailed cabs with interactive screens that display speed, braking information, and system status. True-to-life performance includes acceleration curves, braking distances, and handling that reflect real-world characteristics of these EMUs. Safety systems such as ATC, ACSES, and the alerter remain active at all times, requiring players to respond to alerts and adhere to signal aspects without the option to disable them.
Environmental conditions add variety through volumetric skies, dynamic clouds, fog, rain, and snow effects that alter visibility and atmosphere along the route. Overhauled signalling and new passenger information system displays contribute to the operational realism, while station areas and scenery textures have been refreshed for greater fidelity. The 57-mile network includes 39 stations and supports extensive AI traffic, creating a lively environment where multiple services operate simultaneously on shared sections of track.
Game Modes
Training Center tutorials introduce the controls, startup procedures, and safety systems for the M7 and M9, allowing players to practice before entering service. Six scenarios provide structured challenges, one of which places the player in the role of conductor on the Double Duty scenario, involving door operation, ticket checks, and coordination with the engineer.
Timetable mode delivers an authentic schedule with hundreds of playable passenger services using the M9 and M7, plus additional layers when the compatible M3 EMU is owned. Journey Mode connects training sessions, scenarios, and timetabled runs into a progressive experience. Free Roam permits unrestricted exploration of the route and trains, while Route Tasks offer specific objectives such as completing particular runs or locating collectibles scattered along the line.
The Route and Equipment
The network covers the western end of the Long Island Rail Road, incorporating the new Long Beach branch via Locust Manor and St Albans, the Hempstead branch, the main line to Hicksville, the Atlantic branch to Atlantic Terminal, and the Belmont Park branch. This extension increases total mileage to 57 miles and adds ten stations on the Long Beach line. Services from other branches, including Port Washington, Far Rockaway, and West Hempstead, appear as playable or AI traffic where the tracks overlap.
The M9 represents the newest equipment on the route, introduced with advanced cab displays and performance modeling. The M7 receives updates to audio and functionality. Both trains support the full range of safety systems and deliver consistent handling across the varied branches and terminal approaches.
Is It Worth Playing?
This add-on suits players who enjoy detailed commuter rail simulation with frequent services and modern equipment. The combination of an extended route, dense timetable, and conductor scenario provides substantial content for repeated sessions. Mandatory safety systems enforce procedural accuracy, which aligns with the simulation focus but may limit flexibility for some users. The content stands alone without requiring prior LIRR add-ons, though compatibility with the M3 EMU expands timetable options. Those interested in realistic passenger operations on a historic and high-volume network will find the experience engaging through its verified features and operational depth.
