Trainz 22: Horseshoe Curve

The Pro Train: Horseshoe Curve DLC for Trainz Railroad Simulator 2022 was developed by 3DZUG and released on 6 February 2025. Published by N3V Games, this downloadable content (DLC) introduces a detailed recreation of the Horseshoe Curve, a historic three-track railroad curve located on Norfolk Southern Railway's Pittsburgh Line in Blair County, Pennsylvania. Completed in 1854 by the Pennsylvania Railroad, the curve was designed to reduce the westbound grade to the summit of the Allegheny Mountains, replacing the time-consuming Allegheny Portage Railroad. The DLC features the section from Altoona to Cresson, capturing the scenic and operational aspects of this iconic location.

The DLC includes a range of features aimed at enhancing the realism of the simulation. Players can operate various locomotives, including the Amtrak P42DC in Phase 5 and Phase 6 liveries, as well as the Amtrak Amfleet I Coach, Cafe, and Business cars. The passenger coaches are equipped with responsive day and night interiors, and the Amfleet cars feature functional door steps. Additional functionalities include Deadman's control for locomotives, automatic DPU marker lights, dynamic vehicle weathering, fuel consumption simulation, and realistic curve squeal sounds. The inclusion of interactive industries and commodity chains, along with four new missions, adds depth to the gameplay experience.

Promotion for the Pro Train: Horseshoe Curve DLC was carried out through official Trainz platforms, including the Steam store and the Trainz Portal. The DLC was highlighted as part of the ongoing effort to provide Trainz players with high-quality, immersive experiences that capture the essence of real-world railroading. The release was positioned as a significant addition for players interested in exploring North American rail operations and landscapes, particularly those with an interest in the historic and operational aspects of the Horseshoe Curve.

Upon release, the DLC received positive feedback from the Trainz community, particularly among enthusiasts of North American railways. Players appreciated the attention to detail in the route's design and the inclusion of various features that enhanced the realism of the simulation. The addition of the Horseshoe Curve was seen as a valuable contribution to the game's diverse library of content, offering more options for players interested in passenger and freight operations in a historically significant setting.