Train Sim World 6: Frankenbahn: Stuttgart - Heilbronn

The Frankenbahn: Stuttgart – Heilbronn Route DLC for Train Sim World 6 was developed and published by Dovetail Games. It was released on 9 December 2025 and is an official expansion for the base Train Sim World 6 title. It is available on Windows through supported stores and, in line with the base game’s multi-platform rollout, also on modern consoles — PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series — where the game is supported, though the core experience remains tied to Train Sim World 6 itself rather than a standalone product. The DLC extends the simulator’s route library and is accessed only by players who own the base game.

The route recreates the historic Frankenbahn railway between Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof and Heilbronn Hauptbahnhof as it was around the year 2000. Spanning approximately 51 km, the line follows the Neckar river and weaves through both urban and industrial landscapes of Baden‑Württemberg, featuring 15 detailed stations, the large Kornwestheim freight yard, and multiple industries along the way. Players can operate a mix of freight and passenger services using era-appropriate traction, including the DB BR 140 freight locomotive and the DB BR 111 in red livery with n‑Wagen and the new Wittenberger Steuerwagen for regional runs. The DLC includes tutorials, scenarios, an authentic timetable, journey and free-roam modes, and compatibility with the game’s creation tools such as livery and scenario designers.

Promotion for the DLC primarily took place through official store listings and Train Sim World community channels that highlighted its distinctive setting, classic traction and mixed-traffic operational variety. Messaging around the release emphasized the route’s retro year‑2000 theme, the chance to experience classic infrastructure and rolling stock, and the balance between commuter and freight duties. As part of Train Sim World 6’s broader post-launch content roadmap, it was positioned alongside other new routes and rolling stock as a substantial addition to the core simulation experience. There was no large mainstream advertising campaign; instead, visibility came via platform catalogues, community previews and the established train‑sim enthusiast audience.

Reception among players has been generally positive but nuanced. Early user reviews are too few for a formal consensus, but community discussions indicate that many players appreciate the route’s scenic design, variety of services, and inclusion of classic German traction. Enthusiasts have noted the detailed infrastructure and the nostalgia of driving historic stock, while some discussions also highlight small immersion issues such as missing liveries or route quirks that can break the period feel. A few players have shared constructive criticism and bug reports, suggesting that while the core content is strong, there are areas that could be improved with updates. Overall, the DLC appeals most to dedicated simulation fans who enjoy mixed-traffic operations and German regional rail realism.