Creating content and routes for OpenRails?

[jeffmorris]

How do I create new content and routes for OpenRails? I know that I have to use MSTS Tools to create new routes for now but what about creating new content? I would like to use 3DS MAX to create new content.

[longiron]

Jeff,
You create content for Open Rails exactly the same way you would for MSTS - create shape file, ace texture files plus the usual ENG, sms and cvf files. The major difference is that you have much more freedom on the poly budget and won't need to break the model into subobjects for Open Rails to handle.

If you're a member of UKTrainsim, there's a thread about this topic and the results

http://forums.uktrainsim.com/viewtopic.php?f=324&t=104007

chrisvw

[thegrindre]

Jeff, to put it simply, add those details that you would normally texture. OR can handle it unlike MSTS.

Here's my disconnect with 3D trucks and 3d chain. Notice how round the brake wheel is. Those nuts and bolts and washers are 3D, too. The wheels are also made more rounded and all made for MSTS as usual but with a poly count exceeding 13,800.



Here's a model that's on my work bench as we speak. Notice the headlight detail with concave reflectors, the radiator, and the radiator shell, all 3D. The wheels and spokes are 3D also.



I would like to add this. These details are not all that noticeable in the MSTS sim but with the better graphics rendering using our newer PCs of today, these details are very noticeable in the OR platform. They do stand out, now.

So, add those details if you want to. It's OR time...