Train Sim World 6: Blackpool Branches: Preston - Blackpool & Ormskirk

The Train Sim World 6: Blackpool Branches: Preston – Blackpool & Ormskirk DLC was developed by Just Trains and published by Dovetail Games, released on August 26, 2025. This expansion introduces players to the British rail network of the 1980s, featuring the Class 142 Pacer, a diesel multiple unit (DMU) known for its distinctive design and bumpy ride. The route encompasses the main line from Preston to Blackpool North, along with branch lines to Blackpool South and Ormskirk, capturing the essence of regional rail travel during that era.

The DLC offers a comprehensive simulation experience, including authentic express services operated by the Class 47 locomotive, providing a smoother journey for passengers traveling between the West Coast Main Line and Blackpool. Players can also engage in freight operations, handling heavy tanker trains on the partially disused Burn Naze branch line, adding variety to the gameplay. The route is meticulously detailed, featuring disused stations, signalboxes with interiors, and realistic lineside infrastructure, all contributing to an immersive British Rail era experience.

Promotion for the DLC was conducted through various channels, including announcements on Dovetail Games' official platforms and community forums. The release was highlighted as part of the broader updates to Train Sim World 6, which aimed to enhance the overall gaming experience with new routes and improved features. The DLC's availability on multiple platforms, including PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, broadened its accessibility to a wider audience. The inclusion of the Blackpool Branches route was part of Dovetail Games' commitment to expanding the game's coverage of British rail operations.

Upon release, the Blackpool Branches DLC received positive feedback from the community, with players praising the detailed representation of the route and the addition of the Class 142 Pacer. The DLC's focus on regional British railways filled a niche within the Train Sim World series, catering to enthusiasts of 1980s-era trains. As of now, the DLC continues to be well-regarded among players, maintaining its status as a valuable addition to the Train Sim World 6 experience.