BVE2

BVE2 is a train simulator developed by Kenichiro Yamaguchi, also known by his alias "mackoy". Released in 2000, it was a successor to the original BVE. BVE2 aimed to provide a more realistic train driving experience with improved graphics and physics compared to its predecessor. The simulator featured a route editor that allowed users to create their own railway lines and scenarios, contributing to a dedicated community that shared user-created content.

The core gameplay of BVE2 involves operating a train along a pre-defined route, adhering to signals, speed limits, and timetables. Players control various aspects of the train, including throttle, brakes, and doors. The simulator was known for its focus on accurate physics, making the operation of trains feel authentic. It supported a variety of rolling stock, with many user-created trains also becoming available.

While BVE2 was primarily developed for Windows, its open nature and the availability of a route editor fostered a passionate community. This community played a significant role in the simulator's longevity, creating and sharing a vast array of routes, trains, and modifications. BVE2 laid the groundwork for subsequent iterations in the BVE series, influencing the development of more advanced train simulators. Its legacy is rooted in its accessibility and the creative freedom it offered to its users, making it a notable entry in the train simulation genre.