SubwaySim 2 News

About Route Indicators and Station Signs

In the past few weeks, we’ve given you plenty of exciting insights into SubwaySim 2's new features - from updated routes to detailed vehicle models. This week, we’d like to focus on small but important details that haven’t yet been mentioned in previous updates: namely the station signs and route indicators (so-called "Perlenschnüre") of the Berlin U-Bahn, which ensure maximum recognisability.

[h2]Station Signs: Small Detail, Big Impact[/h2]

The iconic station signs of the Berlin U-Bahn can be found at every stop. They show you the way to the nearest exit, as well as the names of the surrounding streets, and they come in various different designs.

In SubwaySim 2, we’ve taken the time to recreate these signs with the utmost care - whether it’s the classic rectangular form with white letters on a black background, or the more modern versions in newer stations. These details are crucial to capturing the authentic vibe of the Berlin U-Bahn, and they contribute to giving you the feeling of travelling right in the heart of the capital.

[h2]Route Indicators: Orientation Along the Line[/h2]

Many of you have requested this element already - and now, in Berlin we are finally adding it. We’re talking about the route indicators, also known as "Perlenschnüre" in German-speaking countries. These are the graphics in the stations providing an overview of the line's stops, thereby helping travellers quickly see which stations a train will still call at.

For SubwaySim 2, we’ve equipped each platform with its very individual route indicator graphics. Across 26 stations, that’s more than 50 graphics which we’ve lovingly hand-drawn to replicate their distinctive appearance.

All aboard - join us to gain deeper insights into the world of SubwaySim 2 over the next few weeks and months!

[h2]About SubwaySim 2[/h2]

SubwaySim 2 has been announced in August 2024 and is currently in development. In the coming weeks and months, we’ll be giving you insights into the game, its development process, and the new features. Feel free to share your feedback in the Steam Discussions, join our Discord server, and follow us on Instagram. Be sure to add SubwaySim 2 to your Steam wishlist so you don’t miss any updates!

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2707070/SubwaySim_2/

Note: This is a work-in-progress version of the game. All screenshots and videos shown are for preview purposes only and are not representative of the final product. Please feel free to share your feedback in the Steam Discussions if you like what you see or notice any specific issues!

News From HAMBURG!

In recent weeks, we’ve shared plenty of information and images about our Berlin route. However, we also haven’t forgotten the fans of SubwaySim Hamburg ("SubwaySim 1"). Thus, we’re turning our attention to the Hamburg route today, which is already known from the predecessor. But first, a few words about the background.

[h2]Many Improvements in SubwaySim 2[/h2]

With SubwaySim 2, we have introduced several fundamental improvements. A perfect example is our road system, which allows for visually much more appealing streets with realistic AI traffic, including functioning brake lights, indicators, and traffic lights. We have also completely redeveloped the railway track system, including all curves and switches, enabling us to implement highly realistic track layouts with accurate transition curves, superelevated tracks, and double crossover switches.

Unfortunately, we can't simply swap out the track system and the road system of a map after its construction, as the entire level is built upon them. Upgrading both systems is actually closer to a complete level rebuild.

[h2]A Bold Decision[/h2]

Anyone who has followed our development of SubwaySim Hamburg knows one thing: We really care about our games, and we don’t simply discard them - even after receiving critical feedback from players. That's why we’ve worked on the MEGA update for months to meet this commitment. From the very beginning, it was clear to us that we would not simply put Hamburg away after the release of SubwaySim 2.

Therefore, we decided to not only build the brand-new Berlin route for SubwaySim 2, but also to completely revise Hamburg's U3. This is why we are naming the new product "SubwaySim 2" rather than just "SubwaySim Berlin".

[h2]What's In It For You?[/h2]

SubwaySim 2 is the official successor to SubwaySim Hamburg ("SubwaySim 1") and will therefore include all vehicles and routes from SubwaySim Hamburg. For all of you who already own SubwaySim 1, there will, of course, be a considerable discount in the form of a special, reduced upgrade package - but more on that later.

[h2]The New Track System[/h2]

For SubwaySim 2, we have transitioned the entire Hamburg route to our new track system, which amounts to a complete rebuild of all railway tracks. The result is that all track curves, superelevated tracks, and transition curves now align precisely with the data provided by HOCHBAHN. Switch radii, changes in gradient, and inclinations will also exactly match our reference information. For you, this yields a more realistic driving experience and better adherence to the original route. Oh, and the long-awaited double crossover switches have finally been recreated in detail.

[h2]A Before/After Comparison[/h2]

Finally, we would like to show you a small comparison between a section in SubwaySim Hamburg and in SubwaySim 2. To do this, let’s return to the image above. Here you can see the state in SubwaySim 1:

We have now fundamentally revised this section so that it features the new road system, the new track system, and improved lighting. The difference is noticeable - and that’s precisely why we’re putting even more effort into the Hamburg route with SubwaySim 2.

Exploring Berlin's Underground

Last week, we took a closer look at some stations - and left you guessing where the last image was taken. Today we can announce that it was taken at the Podbielskiallee station. This is where the U3 emerges from its tunnels for the last time, before it continues above ground to the terminus at Krumme Lanke.

But now, let’s turn to this week’s topic: today, we want to take you underground in Berlin to take a closer look at the tunnel structures.

[h2]Many Tunnels, Many Tracks[/h2]

For the following images, we have switched on the tunnel lighting. In reality, this is typically only used for maintenance operations or emergencies, and thus usually the tunnels are dark.

What’s special about the U1/U3 in Berlin is the variety of unique tunnel constructions and underground track halls. Therefore, we have built many tunnel sections by hand to closely match the real conditions. In some cases, there are even multi-storey structures that connect tracks on different levels.

[h2]The Tunnels Around Nollendorfplatz[/h2]

The Nollendorfplatz station uniquely combines all four lines of the small profile network. While the U2 runs above ground, the U1 and U3 are operated on two different levels below surface, depending on the direction. Additionally, there is also the U4 platform, as well as the platform for U3 trains that terminate at Nollendorfplatz during off-peak times coming from Krumme Lanke.

[h2]Wittenbergplatz[/h2]

Directly adjacent to Nollendorfplatz, we can find the Wittenbergplatz station, which is also an important hub in the small profile network. Here, three lines meet: the U1, U2, and U3. In contrast to Nollendorfplatz, all tracks here are on a single level.

With a total of five platforms, Wittenbergplatz also features a remarkable track layout, which is housed within an open tunnel hall. In its centre, you can see the tracks for the U2 line, on which appropriate AI services will of course run in SubwaySim 2.

Thanks to the track arrangement, it is even possible to transfer from the U2 line to the U3 line at Wittenbergplatz. In reality, this happens regularly, as some U2 trains are parked overnight at the U3 station Spichernstraße. We will also take this into account in the timetables for SubwaySim 2.

A Closer Look At STATIONS!

After exploring the landmarks in Berlin last week, it’s now time to focus a bit more on the metro line itself. For this reason, we will take a look at some exciting stations along the Berlin U1 and U3 lines today.

[h2]Gleisdreieck Station[/h2]

We begin with a relatively significant station on the small-profile network, namely Gleisdreieck Station ("Metro Triangle"). On the upper level, lines U1/U3 are operated, while the U2 line crosses below. In the screenshot above, you can see the platform level for U1/U3 as it will appear in the game - but just without any passengers.

In the history of the Berlin underground network, this station has had various track layouts. Until a few years ago, the two lines were directly connected by a linking track. Although this track has been dismantled in reality, we deliberately decided to include it in our version - even though the U2 line will only be operated by AI trains for now.

[h2]Hohenzollernplatz Station[/h2]

Next, we move on to an underground station on the U3 line, located not far from Wittenbergplatz, where the U3 leaves its shared route with the U1: namely Hohenzollernplatz station. The tunnel stations on the U3 showcase a mix of different styles, which also vary in terms of lighting. Of course, we have also replicated these variations in SubwaySim 2. Here, too, you can see a photo of the station without passengers.

[h2]One More Station[/h2]

Finally, we have brought you another photo. This shows another station on the U3 line, eagerly awaiting passenger service. But... which station is it?

Feel free to discuss this in the comments. The answer will follow next week!

The LANDMARKS Along The Route

In SubwaySim 2, there's much to explore beyond the tracks. Today, we’re taking a look at the topic of landmarks, which holds a special place in our hearts for SubwaySim 2.

From the very start, we’ve paid close attention to ensure that unique buildings and landmarks along the route are given the attention they deserve, and are faithfully recreated. As the U1/U3 elevated railway leads its way from Warschauer Straße to Gleisdreieck, there are several buildings that truly stand out from the rest.

[h2]The Emmaus Church at Lausitzer Platz[/h2]

We begin our tour de Berlin at the Emmaus Church, located not far from the Görlitzer Bahnhof station. It was originally built between 1890 and 1893, but was completely destroyed during the Second World War, and aside from the tower, had to be demolished shortly afterwards. It’s this very tower that you can see directly from the U1/U3 driver’s cab.

[h2]The Omar Ibn Al-Khattab Mosque[/h2]

Similarly, this mosque is also located near the Görlitzer Bahnhof station. However, in contrast to the Emmaus Church, this building is much younger. Construction of the mosque began in 2004, and it was finally inaugurated in 2010. With its location right along the U1/U3 elevated railway, it’s clearly visible from the train. Its distinctive façade makes it stand out prominently from its surroundings and provides a beautiful sight from both directions.

[h2]The EDGE East Side Tower[/h2]

Naturally, skyscrapers are a must in digital Berlin, and one of them is the EDGE Tower, located right by the Warschauer Straße station. The exterior of the building was only completed in 2023, and it consists of a total of 36 floors, primarily housing offices. With its extraordinary façade, it’s visible from afar and has earned its place in virtual Berlin.

[h2]The German Museum of Technology[/h2]

Finally, we’d like to introduce our favourite building to you: the German Museum of Technology. The building's iconic focal point is the Douglas C-47 B Skytrain plane, which gained historical significance during the Berlin Airlift. However, the rest of the building's façade is also unmistakable, and with its direct alignment along the elevated railway, the museum is one of the most prominent highlights of the U1/U3 route.