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The phrase " MSTS - Addon - Routes and Trains -5 of 6- " typically refers to the fifth volume
of a multi-disc or multi-part collection of community-created or commercial add-ons for Microsoft Train Simulator (MSTS).
While these collections were often unofficial "megapacks" distributed via physical media or large digital archives, the specific content usually includes:
Regional Routes: Volume 5 often focused on specific geographic regions. In many common 6-pack sets, this volume featured European routes (such as Swiss or German lines like the Gotthard Route) or extensive Indian Railways expansions. MSTS - Addon - Routes and Trains -5 of 6-
Locomotives & Rolling Stock: It typically bundles a high number of trainsets, including both diesel and electric locomotives (e.g., WAP-7, WDM-3A) along with corresponding passenger and freight cars.
Pre-configured Scenarios: Included with the routes are "activities" or scenarios that provide set tasks, such as hauling heavy freight or managing a tight passenger schedule. Related Add-on Providers
3D Train Stuff: A known developer of high-quality MSTS routes and rolling stock, such as the Swanage Route. The phrase " MSTS - Addon - Routes
Aerosoft/Train-World: Frequent publishers of professional European MSTS content like the Bernina Express.
Open Rails: Most of these older MSTS add-ons are now commonly played using the Open Rails engine, which provides better performance on modern hardware. Train Simulator – Page 6 - simFlight
While the default MSTS had a basic Cajon, the addon version in a Part-5 set is the fully realized 4.0 update. This route stretches from Barstow to San Bernardino. Why is it in Part 5? Because of the massive helper districts. You will learn to control a rear-end DPU (Distributed Power Unit) via simple keyboard macros. The addon includes the famous "Canyon Cutting" where the track literally hangs over a 200-foot drop. Vibe: Dense, electrified, 1930s–1950s mainline action
In Parts 1 through 4, we covered installation, core utilities, and troubleshooting. Now, we enter the heart of what kept MSTS alive for two decades: the Routes and the Trains themselves. While Microsoft provided a solid foundation (the Settle–Carlisle line, the Japanese Electric line, the US Northeast Corridor, and the Marias Pass), the addon community transformed MSTS into a near-infinite virtual railway.
Let us be honest: Installing an MSTS - Addon - Routes and Trains -5 of 6- is not a one-click process. Most users extract it incorrectly, leading to missing dependencies for Routes 1-4. Follow this strict order:
TRAINS\TRAINSET and ROUTES folders. Part 5 overwrites common shape files (like US2FreightCar).APKUnpack.exe found in most MSTS utility folders.SOUND and SHAPES subfolders separately. Unlike earlier parts, Part 5 often scatters common assets into a COMMON directory that MSTS cannot read unless manually aliased.The keyword "-5 of 6-" suggests a systematic, curated collection. Historically, the most famous "6-part" addon series in MSTS history came from the European training schools (like The Training Session series) and the massive Pro Train compilations. Part 5 almost always focused on "Heavy Freight & Mountain Passes."
In this article, we are treating this as the "Mountain Division & Heavy Haul" disc. You have downloaded the four previous parts. Now, let’s break down exactly what you should expect in this critical fifth installment.