Rolling Line, the popular model railway simulator from developer Gaugepunk Games, has just launched its most highly requested feature: multiplayer. In a massive new update, players can now explore, operate, and drive trains together on their favorite layouts.
The update includes options for both private games with friends and a public server browser for joining open communities. This has been a dream feature for the community and developer since the game's launch, and it's finally here.
How to Play: Public Servers and Private Games
The developer has made it easy to jump in. To find a public game, there is a new Server Browser in the pause menu (Pause menu -> Multiplayer -> Server browser). This shows a list of all active public servers.
You can join a game directly from this list. If you see a key icon, it means the server is password-protected. Servers can also feature a "Workshop" button that links to all the required maps and mods you need to download to join.
If you want to host a map, you load your save file and go to the Pause menu -> Multiplayer -> Host a server.
- For a private game, you can simply invite friends directly through Steam or share a "join code."
- For a public game, you'll find new "Hosting options" where you can toggle "Show on public server browser." You can also add a Steam Workshop link to your map's required mod collection, making it easy for others to join.
What You Can Do in Multiplayer
This new mode is a sandbox for driving trains and interacting with maps. You can run realistic operations or just have silly fun with other players.
Here’s a look at what you can do right now:
- Drive trains from the cab or in large scale.
- Control all map functions, including signals, turnouts, and turntables.
- Interact with map elements like doors, levers, and light switches.
- Use circuitry and automation systems.
- Spawn in and drive modded trains.
- Communicate with built-in voice chat (push-to-talk on 'V') and text chat ('T').
- Customize your player character and use gesture animations ('G').
- Access server controls for hosting, including muting, kicking, and banning players.
- Ping a location for other players to see by pressing 'Z'.
Maps, Mods, and Current Limitations
You can play on any map, including any from the Steam Workshop or your own local save files. Prop and track mods will work perfectly, but all players in the session must have them downloaded for them to appear. The developer has been clear about one major limitation in this initial release: map editing is not possible in multiplayer.
Building a layout together with friends is an "amazing experience," the developer wants to add, but they noted the feature was "FAR too big of a job to take on all in one go." They chose to focus on the train driving sandbox first, but confirmed they "do plan to have a go at multiplayer map editing" in the future.
What's Next for Multiplayer?
This launch is just the beginning. The developer has a long list of plans for future additions to expand the multiplayer experience. Some of these planned features include:
- Expanding character customization (more clothing, detailed color options).
- Support for character model modding.
- Server roles (e.g., locking players to miniature only, or only allowing specific players to drive trains).
- VR-specific animations, such as hand tracking.
- The highly anticipated multiplayer map editing feature.
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