This is the wiki for Simutrans Extended (formerly known as Simutrans Experimental). Simutrans Extended is not the same game with additional features, but a branch project which differs in several fundamental game mechanics from standard Simutrans.
Simutrans-Extended has been developed to provide additional features not found in Simutrans-Standard, and also to modify some existing features to change the overall balance of the game. The emphasis is on economic and operational realism, improving the gameplay balance, increasing variety, and making the game more challenging in the later stages (where, in Simutrans-Standard, it can be very easy), and less challenging in the earlier stage (where, in Simutrans-Standard, it can be very hard): in other words, to have a longer, smoother learning curve.
Simutrans Extended was (and still is) developed by James Petts, who, in a previous incarnation, used to pull long freight trains through the Midlands, day or night, and in bad weather. He still retains some of these character traits.
This wiki is, as usual, a work in progress. At the moment is is not intended to be a complete game manual. If you're a beginner, please refer to either the standard Simutrans wiki or the Simutrans Extended in-game help system to learn the basics. What you'll find here is more detailed explanations for the mechanics that are unique to Simutrans Extended.
Where to get it
How to download the game
Or download the latest nightly build, as a complete package with Pak128Britain.Ex (look for Simutrans-Extended-Complete.zip). Be advised that the latest version may always contain bugs. Switch on Autosave in the config file!
Nightly builds Download Server
Forum Thread
Basic information about the game
Why Simutrans Extended? - Goals of the projectMiscellaneous features of Simutrans Extended - Scale, depot types, terraforming and other things
Standard features not supported in Extended
Tips
FAQ
Simutrans Extended Forum
Paksets
Simutrans requires a pakset to play. Paksets were originally different sets of graphics packs (for buildings, vehicles, etc.), but they now control the user interface (UI), rules, configuration, map geography, in-game economy, and so on. Changing to a different pakset can almost feel like playing a whole new game. You can compare them to total overhaul mods or expansion DLC in strategy and city-building games, or the difference between O gauge and H gauge in model railways.In theory, Simutrans-Extended supports playing with paksets created for the Standard version, but this is somewhat pointless as you will not be able to use the vast majority of the Extended features. You are strongly encouraged to play with one of the Extended Paksets.
Configuration
ConfigurationGame Balance
Map generation
Map generation timeEconomics and Finance
Economics & FinanceIndustry
IndustryIndustry Workers
Passengers
Passengers - Passenger generation, journey time, walking, routing of goods and passengersPassenger Stops - Passenger Stops and their coverage
Passenger & Mail Classes
Comfort
Vehicles
Vehicles - Maintenance and running costs, reversing and othersVehicle Physics
Convoy Spacing & Line Scheduling (Tutorial)
Private cars
Ways
Ways - Weight limits, constraints, bridges etc.Canals
The Signalling System
Watch these first: Video Tutorials for the new Signal system on the SimEx YouTube channelIntroduction to Signals in Simutrans Extended
Signals Working Methods
Basic Signal Types
Stops
Stops - Capacity, overcrowding, goods & passenger loadingAirports