Probably not news to most of you here, but cool to hear TS2014 upgrade will be free to current owners and will be compatible with current DLC, hopefully they will improve the graphics even more:

http://www.engine-driver.com/2013/07/train-simulator-2014-your-journey.html

I'm hoping (wishfully thinking?) that there are improvements in the AI dispatcher and more tools for scenario designers to utilize. Was also hoping they'd made a breakthrough on true multiplayer.

Still no TrackIR support?

I haven't been able to find anything re: TrackIR, which makes me think no. I also haven't seen anything about being able to map to controller axes. I miss not having an analog controller for my regulator/reverser/brakes or throttle/train brake/dynamic brake.

it is now available

Question: I'm not too sure about this, but is the game extremely accurate in terms of switches and buttons in the trains' 3D driver's seats? Or is the interface more of an overlaid UI and the 3D interiors just for show?

I've been only able to take a brief look at the 2014 update. Performance is no worse at all, menus are good. The few graphical annoyances I had prior are still there.

Jazjar: I think this will vary per locomotive. Many of the switches in the default locomotives are inoperative (they don't click or move). Most of those for features that are available on the overlay UI are clickable, however.

Some locomotives are more detailed in presentation. I have the Baldwin Centipede DLC, and it features a more detailed 3D cab. I think all the main switches work for toggling the battery, generators, fuel pumps, etc. The "Advanced" startup shows the gauges indicating fuel pressure and the locomotive is a touch sensitive to overheating at higher power settings at low speeds (poor cooling situations). So the Centipede DLC at least, offers a more varied driving experience than the default locomotives I have. I can't comment on it's actual accuracy, though. As I understand, some of the newer GP DLC locomotives offer similar features as well.

BTW, I myself hardly ever use the overlay UI. I prefer the F5 display and operate most of the controls from the keyboard from within the 3D cab.

I was surprised as just how much of the PC's resources TS2014 requires, it runs fine on my desktop but is a slideshow on my laptop. (i7@2.0GHz Intel HD Graphics, 8GB Ram, 160GB SSD)

There are a few annoyances in it, like the wheelslip that the A4 has, esp. on the West Coast Mainline

Just starting the scenario at Carlisle in summer and good weather with a consist of A4 and 7 coaches, when you are placed into the 3D world the locomotive starts to wheelslip even tho the regulator and reverser are at 0% and train brake is on at 100%

It makes for a nice change from flight sims and is almost quite relaxing