TS2014 - What I Know So Far......

As many will be aware, there are many new tools available for both route and scenario creators in TS2014, so here is what I know so far.............

Google Earth Integration

If using a route with real world co-ordinates that uses either a custom template or one provided with DLC, simply hold Ctrl&G within the route for half a second or so and the overlay should appear.

Quality can be increased reduced via an option in the settings. The highest resolution I can get to appear seems to be a resolution of 1280x1280 with a zoom level of 16, easily enough to give me enough resolution for simple scenery and track placement.

Part of this setting also gives the opportunity to input a Google API key. I believe that bandwidth to the overlay may be limited if an API key isn't obtained, however, this is free to do so.


Geometry Export - Track

Track geometry can now be exported directly from TS2014 allowing the user to easily form new scenery objects around the their track layout.

To export track simply select the pieces of track in the world editor, hold Ctrl to select more than once. Once selected, press Ctrl&C to copy to the clipboard then Ctrl&Shift&E to export the geometry.

If you then navigate to the 'Export' folder of your TS2014 install, you should now have an networkxx.obj file which can then be imported into various 3D modelling programs. 


Geometry Export - Terrain

In the world editor, look at the terrain you want to export and press 'T'. This should export a terrain.obj file to the same folder outlined above


Linking Scenarios

It seems you can now link scenarios together. So for example, rather than creating a two part scenario and requiring the user to complete the first one, return to the menu and then load the second, the scenario author can make this happen automatically after a successful completion.

This is achieved in the scenario (timetable) editor on the same part as your final instruction where you place your messages regarding successful completion or failure. Right at the bottom is a 'wavy' line called 'Scenario Chain', you need to enter the GUID** number of the scenario you want to link toin the box alongside and then tick the box further to the right.

**GUID numbers are the long folder names which TS uses. To find the number of the scenario you wish to link to, go to 'build', select your route, click 'scenario editor' and locate your scenario in the list. Once located, select 'Open Scenario Folder' and the long ID number is listed at the top.

Initial exploration suggests that this process can be done over different routes, enabling a scenario to end at Carlisle on WCML North for example, then load part 2 from Carlisle on the Settle to Carlisle route. .