Run Virtual Trains on the World’s Favorite Track Plans

NAPA, CA, August 11, 2005 -- TrainPlayer Software announces the release of Version 1.3 of TrainPlayer, a unique software product for model railroaders.

TrainPlayer simulates the experience of operating trains on a model railroad layout. The layout is a published track plan diagram overlaid with a network of electronic track. The user adds cars and trains, and operates them using a control panel resembling a model power pack. All driving operations are supported: cars can be coupled and uncoupled, switches and turntables are functional, cars and trains can be customized to match the user’s own collection.

The program appeals to model railroaders who like track plans and driving trains. Experienced railroaders can develop operating schedules or practice yard moves. Novices can learn to operate a railroad or experiment with ideas for their own layouts. All can enjoy driving trains on professionally-designed, graphically rich track plans.

By arrangement with Kalmbach Publishing Co. (Waukesha, WI), TrainPlayer comes with layouts from "101 Track Plans for Model Railroaders" by Linn H. Westcott. Published in 1956, the book has sold over a half million copies and is the most popular track plan book of all time. All 101 plans are available for TrainPlayer.

The product has been on the market since April, and response has been positive. "This is the first program that just lets me run trains; I don’t have to develop my entire layout in excruciating CAD detail first" says one user. Another says, "I downloaded the demo and am amazed at the quality and depth of programming exhibited in a newly introduced product"

Products currently available are TrainPlayer ($29.95), TrainPlayer Deluxe ($59.95, with all 101 plans) and three layout packs. All are available for immediate download or on CD. Many additional track plans are available on the web site.

This fall the company will release "TrackLayer" the program used to add track to the layout diagrams. TrackLayer includes a set of specialized but simple tools for building track and turntables, designed for the railroader who wants to sketch track and run trains on a personal railroad plan.

For more information, visit the website at www.trainplayer.com. A free evaluation version of the program is available for download.

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Contact Information

Jim Dill

Developer

TrainPlayer Software

Contact via E-mail