The Expert BR 145 for TSW 6 has arrived – but how good is it really?

My first impression is that the BR 145 Expert feels technically very detailed. It was developed by TSG, a studio known in the TSW community for creating highly detailed locomotives. And that reputation is noticeable here as well.

Looking at the exterior model, the locomotive doesn’t appear like a perfectly clean display model. The body features dirt and wear details, which make it look more like a working freight locomotive rather than a shiny toy. For me, small details like that often make a big difference in how believable a vehicle feels.

Inside the locomotive there are several features that go beyond what many standard locomotives offer. One highlight is the walkable engine room. There are also openable cabinets, many functional switches, and even a failure simulation system that requires active interaction.

The displays inside the cab are also interactive. One particularly interesting system is the programmable braking computer, which adds another layer of realism. At the same time, the DLC includes tutorials to explain the systems, which is helpful because the locomotive can otherwise feel complex.

The DLC also introduces a pocket wagon designed to carry truck trailers. Another feature I personally find interesting is manual coupling, where players essentially perform tasks usually handled by a shunting assistant. That means you sometimes leave the cab and walk alongside the train to check equipment.

Opinions about the sound design are somewhat mixed. Some players feel the traction motor and fan sounds are solid, while others think certain sounds could still be improved, such as the horn or fan loops.

However, the biggest discussion point is clearly the price. Some players feel that the DLC is expensive for a single locomotive with wagons. Others argue that the depth of systems and detail justifies the cost.

My overall impression after looking at the early community feedback is fairly clear: the BR 145 Expert is mainly designed for players who enjoy complex locomotive systems and deeper simulation mechanics.

If you simply want to jump in and drive a train quickly, the difference compared to other locomotives might feel smaller.

So whether the DLC is worth it really depends on how much you enjoy learning and interacting with detailed locomotive systems.

Link to Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3879910/Tr…_145_Loco_AddOn

Have you tried the BR 145 Expert yet? What do you think about the locomotive? Do you enjoy expert-level locomotives? What do you think about the price?