Train Sim World 6: Thames Valley: Windsor, Henley & Marlow Branch Lines Add-On is a simulation title for PC that adds three historic branch lines in the Thames Valley to the core game. Players take on the role of a Great Western Railway driver or guard operating the Class 165 Networker Turbo DMU across compact routes that emphasize precise handling, token exchange procedures, and scenic riverside running.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on realistic train operation along short, independent branches. The Windsor route runs two miles from Slough with elevated sections that curve toward Windsor Castle. The Marlow branch stretches seven miles from Maidenhead and requires token collection at key points before continuing to Bourne End and the final shuttle to Marlow. The Henley branch covers four and a half miles from Twyford and follows a near-straight alignment popular during riverside events. Across the three lines players manage acceleration, braking, and suspension behavior that matches the real Class 165 performance. On-board announcements and ambient passenger sounds accompany each service while intricate lineside details and a total of eleven stations provide visual reference points during runs.
Fast Travel lets drivers reposition quickly between branches, and the token system on the Marlow line adds an extra layer of procedural steps before departure. Route Hop connects the branches to the main Great Western Express corridor at Slough, Maidenhead, and Twyford for through services when that content is present. The Class 165 features authentic livery in GWR green and supports true-to-life handling characteristics throughout every duty.
Game Modes
Journey Mode serves as the central hub that links training, scenarios, and timetable services into a continuous progression. The Training Center delivers an accessible tutorial focused on the Class 165 controls and branch-specific procedures. Five dedicated scenarios place players in targeted operational situations across the three lines. Timetable Services run according to an authentic schedule on all branches and include Guard Mode, which shifts emphasis to passenger management and station duties. Additional timetable layers introduce varied traffic such as a Class 37 railtour, a Class 70 engineering train, and GWR HST movements through the connected stations.
These modes operate independently on each branch yet share the same underlying simulation systems. Players can switch between driver and guard perspectives within the same timetable framework, allowing repeated runs with different responsibilities.
Routes and Technical Details
The package combines three operationally separate branches into one download of 4.3 GB. Each line retains its historical character: the Windsor branch's short length and castle views, the Marlow branch's token-based single-line working and shuttle nickname, and the Henley branch's straight alignment suited to regatta traffic. The Class 165 delivers consistent performance across all routes with accurate suspension response and passenger ambience. Designers can use the included Livery Designer, Formation Designer, and Scenario Planner tools to create and share custom content through the Creators Club.
Is It Worth Playing?
This add-on suits players who enjoy focused, realistic branch-line operations rather than high-speed mainline running. The combination of three distinct routes in a single package provides immediate variety without requiring separate purchases for each line. Journey Mode and the integrated timetable give structure for repeated play, while the token system and guard duties introduce procedural depth. The simulation engine handles vehicle dynamics and environmental details with precision that rewards careful throttle and brake inputs. Those already invested in the Great Western network will find the branches a natural extension that expands timetable options and scenic variety. Newcomers to the series can start with the tutorial and progress through scenarios before tackling full timetable services. The result is a compact yet complete experience centered on authentic Thames Valley driving and guarding tasks.
