ZDSimulator: Shevchenko-Timkove Route

The Shevchenko-Timkove Route DLC for ZDSimulator was developed and published by the ZDSimulator Team as an expansion for the core ZDSimulator railway simulation platform. It was released in February 2026 and adds a substantial new main line to the simulator’s growing catalogue of Ukrainian railway content. As with other add-ons for the title, the route is designed to work alongside the base game’s detailed physics and control systems, which aim to replicate real-world railway operations as closely as possible.

The DLC introduces the Shevchenko–Timkove line, spanning approximately 188 kilometres and featuring a combination of double- and single-track sections electrified at 25 kV AC. Set within the Odesa Railways network, the route offers a mix of passenger and freight operations across varied landscapes and infrastructure layouts. It includes 15 scenarios designed to showcase different service types, allowing players to operate passenger locomotives such as the ChS4, ChS4KVR and ChS8, as well as freight power including the VL80T, VL80K and 2ES5K.

Promotion for the DLC followed the established pattern for ZDSimulator content, with announcements made through the Steam store and official community channels. Screenshots and descriptive overviews highlighted the length of the route, its electrified infrastructure and the range of included scenarios. As a niche railway simulator, ZDSimulator relies heavily on word of mouth within enthusiast communities rather than large-scale marketing campaigns, and interest was primarily driven by its dedicated player base.

Because the DLC has only recently launched, there are currently no Steam user reviews to provide a clear overall rating. Early discussion within ZDSimulator forums and community groups suggests positive anticipation, particularly from players interested in realistic Ukrainian railway operations and long-distance driving experiences. Many have welcomed the scale of the route and the inclusion of multiple locomotive types, with broader reception likely to become clearer as more players spend time exploring the line.