In Parts 1 through 4, we covered installation, core utilities, and troubleshooting. Now, we enter the heart of what kept MSTS alive for two decades: the Routes and the Trains themselves. While Microsoft provided a solid foundation (the Settle–Carlisle line, the Japanese Electric line, the US Northeast Corridor, and the Marias Pass), the addon community transformed MSTS into a near-infinite virtual railway.
Yes—but only if you value operations over eyecandy.
If you want to run 15,000-ton coal trains across photorealistic mountains, Parts 1-3 are your answer. If you want to learn why a local freight crew earns their pay—sorting rusty boxcars at midnight, dodging Amtrak, and coupling to a caboose older than your father—then MSTS - Addon - Routes and Trains -5 of 6- is the heart of your library.
It does not scream for attention. It does not boast the newest locomotive model. But like the real shortlines it represents, Part 5 does the dirty, vital work that keeps the digital railroad running.
Next in series: “MSTS - Addon - Routes and Trains -6 of 6-: The Steam Revolution and Final Patches.”
Have a copy of this rare add-on? Share your installation stories on the forum. And always—always—run Route Riter before your first test drive.
The phrase "MSTS - Addon - Routes and Trains -5 of 6-" typically refers to the fifth part of a six-volume split archive or series containing massive collections of community-created and payware content for Microsoft Train Simulator (MSTS). Because MSTS dates back to 2001, large compilations of routes, locomotives, and rolling stock are often distributed as multi-part compressed files (such as .rar or .zip) to bypass file size limits on older hosting platforms. Understanding the "5 of 6" Collection
In the world of train simulation, these multi-part archives are common when users share "megapacks" of assets. Volume 5 of 6 generally contains a specific subset of data required to complete the installation of the entire library.
The Archive Structure: Most 6-part series for MSTS are structured so that part 6 contains the final executable or the primary .exe installer, while parts 1 through 5 contain the bulk of the data files (textures, shapes, and sounds).
Indian Railways Focus: Many modern search results for this specific keyword point toward Indian Railways (IR) collections, which are notoriously large and require extensive assets like XTracks and NewRoads to function. Notable Add-ons Associated with this Sequence
While "5 of 6" is often a generic archive label, it occasionally aligns with specific long-running commercial series:
ProTrain Series: One of the most famous payware series by Blue Sky Interactive, where ProTrain 5 focused on the "Ostalgie" route from Berlin to Dresden.
3DTrainStuff Compilations: Major US-based routes like Cajon Pass or Tehachapi Pass were often bundled in large multi-disc or multi-part digital sets for long-term storage. Essential Requirements for Using MSTS Add-ons 3D Train Stuffhttps://www.3dtrainstuff.com Train Simulator Add-ons for Microsoft Train Simulator
The phrase " MSTS - Addon - Routes and Trains -5 of 6- " typically refers to the fifth volume MSTS - Addon - Routes and Trains -5 of 6-
of a multi-disc or multi-part collection of community-created or commercial add-ons for Microsoft Train Simulator (MSTS).
While these collections were often unofficial "megapacks" distributed via physical media or large digital archives, the specific content usually includes:
Regional Routes: Volume 5 often focused on specific geographic regions. In many common 6-pack sets, this volume featured European routes (such as Swiss or German lines like the Gotthard Route) or extensive Indian Railways expansions.
Locomotives & Rolling Stock: It typically bundles a high number of trainsets, including both diesel and electric locomotives (e.g., WAP-7, WDM-3A) along with corresponding passenger and freight cars.
Pre-configured Scenarios: Included with the routes are "activities" or scenarios that provide set tasks, such as hauling heavy freight or managing a tight passenger schedule. Related Add-on Providers
3D Train Stuff: A known developer of high-quality MSTS routes and rolling stock, such as the Swanage Route.
Aerosoft/Train-World: Frequent publishers of professional European MSTS content like the Bernina Express.
Open Rails: Most of these older MSTS add-ons are now commonly played using the Open Rails engine, which provides better performance on modern hardware. Train Simulator – Page 6 - simFlight
Based on the text segment you provided, here is the relevant information regarding this specific file or title:
Product: Microsoft Train Simulator (MSTS) Type: Add-on / Expansion Pack (Freeware or Payware Collection) Archive Part: 5 of 6 (Part of a multi-volume archive, likely RAR or ZIP split files)
Analysis & Context: This text string typically appears as a filename for a downloadable mod, route, or train pack found on file-sharing sites or train simulation archives.
Key Details:
Instructions for Use: Because this is labeled "5 of 6," you cannot open or install this file by itself. To use this content, you must: In Parts 1 through 4, we covered installation,
Microsoft Train Simulator (MSTS) Addon: Routes and Trains - Part 5 of 6
Introduction
In this fifth installment of our Microsoft Train Simulator (MSTS) addon series, we will explore the exciting world of routes and trains. MSTS offers a vast array of routes and trains that can be added to the game, enhancing the overall gaming experience. In this write-up, we will discuss the various types of routes and trains available, how to install them, and provide tips for creating your own custom content.
Routes
Routes are a crucial part of the MSTS experience, offering players a chance to explore new environments and challenge themselves on different terrains. There are several types of routes available, including:
Some popular routes for MSTS include:
Trains
Trains are the heart of MSTS, and with the vast array of locomotives and rolling stock available, players can create a wide range of scenarios. There are several types of trains available, including:
Some popular trains for MSTS include:
Installing Routes and Trains
Installing routes and trains in MSTS is a straightforward process:
Creating Your Own Content
Creating your own routes and trains for MSTS is a rewarding experience that allows you to express your creativity. To get started, you'll need: Have a copy of this rare add-on
Conclusion
In this fifth installment of our MSTS addon series, we've explored the exciting world of routes and trains. With a vast array of routes and trains available, players can enhance their MSTS experience and challenge themselves in new and exciting ways. By following the installation instructions and tips for creating your own content, you can take your MSTS experience to the next level.
Stay Tuned
In the next and final installment of our MSTS addon series, we'll explore the world of scenarios and activities, and provide a comprehensive conclusion to the series.
Title: MSTS Addon Spotlight – Part 5 of 6: High Iron & Hidden Gems (Routes & Trains)
Posted by: RailDriver_77
Date: October 12, 2024
Category: MSTS Classic / Addon Reviews
Welcome back, engineers and railfans! We’re cruising through the final stretch of our six-part series on Microsoft Train Simulator addons. In Part 4, we covered the heavy hitters—the Marias Pass extensions and the Northeast Corridor revamps. Now, in Part 5 of 6, we’re diving into the high iron and hidden gems: the routes that push the original engine to its limits and the locomotives you didn’t know you needed.
If you’ve been following along, your TRAINSET folder is likely bursting at the seams. Good. Let’s make it worse.
1. The EMD SD40-2 "Snoot" (Ultra-Detailed) This is the hero unit of the pack. Unlike the default GP38, this addon SD40-2 features:
2. The GE AC6000CW (The Behemoth) Introduced to MSTS addons around 2006, this 6,000-horsepower monster is overkill for most routes—except the Cajon Pass included here. The sound package in this -5 of 6- disc is legendary. It uses 16 separate .wav files for the turbocharger spool alone. When you notch from idle to run 8, your computer’s speakers will rattle.
3. The Steam Surprise: NKP 2-8-4 "Berkshire" Because no 6-part series is complete without steam, Part 5 usually hides a masterpiece: the Nickel Plate Road Berkshire. This is not a toy. The addon includes a 52-page PDF on firing techniques. You have to manage water levels while climbing a 2.2% grade. Let the crown sheet go dry, and the simulation ends in a catastrophic boiler explosion (text prompt only, but humiliating).
The wagon selection here focuses on high-density cargo:
Surprisingly, Part 5 of this six-part series often includes a traction subfolder. Here, you will find:
Why? Because route builders in the mid-2000s realized that MSTS could model interurbans just as well as heavy rail. Part 5 captures that experimental spirit.