The release of computer software like Microsoft's Train Simulator and Trainz opened up a whole new medium and world of modeling: virtual modeling. Microsoft Train Simulator (occasionally referred to as MSTS) is a train simulator developed for Microsoft Windows, released in July 2001 and developed by UK based Kuju Entertainment and can be used with the new Open Rails (OR) Simulator. The simulation allows players to operate a train on various routes in the United States and around the world. Players need to stop and start the train, couple cars, using the computer mouse, keyboard or a hardware addition such as Raildriver to operate the controls. Sound effects are enabled. Since the MSTS release, there have been other similar simulation games released.

There has been many hours, days and years spent by talented designers modeling the equipment and the routes of many railroads. These designers are indeed great modelers, just in a different medium. Virual Railroading can be found at TrainSim.com. There is now the Monon Route version available for MSTS and Open Rails (OR). We have posted some of their work here. As you can see, their work and attention to detail is first rate and considered second to none.