For many, many years I was a dedicated HO scale modeler. And for the same number of years I was limited in my hobby by funding and physical space.
With advances in computer hardware and software technology, I’ve found new interest and opportunities to explore my passion virtually; in V-Scale.
I’ve been building prototypically accurate model railroads for a few years now using popular railroad simulation software. Microsoft Train Simulator and Auran’s Trainz are the most popular packages, but others are also available. I, and thousands of others like me, use radar DEM maps to create accurate terrain and plot tracks. Some people specialize in building accurate scale models of locomotives, rolling stock and structures. Of course, we can operate our layouts like any other model railroad including from inside the locomotive cab. The real benefit to v-scale is the lack of financial or space restrictions.
Some of the models are extremely accurate and artwork in their own right. The bulk of v-scalers take the hobby very seriously and consider themselves to be model railroaders as much as those who prefer any other scale. I’ve included a few example photos below.
I am curious how ‘traditional’ modelers view v-scale and those who choose to work in this medium.
It is something, and I guess we use the word computer model to describe things, but I just can’t get myself to call it model railroading. That isn’t to say it does not require its own set of skills, but, in my opinion, the difference in that set, and the set required for model railroading make it a different hobby. Please note that this does not mean it is not a perfectly good hobby. I’m not saying it is superior or inferior, just different, and it is not model railroading, to me.
If you want to call it model railroading, I guess you can, but since you asked, I’d say it is not.
Your pics are pretty awesome! Especially that first one. I never seem to have a computer that’s up to the task of running those sims. I’d just rather invest my money in my layout instead of my computer or software. Still…cool pics![tup]
I guess the answer lies in how one would define, “model.” (with all due respect to Bill) What about photos of model railroads that have been digitally altered in some way. Would they not, in some part, be in the same class as V-Scale? The point of course is that each individual has their own way of enjoying the hobby. So ultimately it really doesn’t matter how, “traditional modelers,” view your decision. You don’t need anyone’s permission to do what you do.
Yes, V-scale is acceptable and V-Scalers are model railroaders, just as N-scalers are to this HO-scaler. We just have different preferences for modeling trains.
I agree totally. V-scale is, to me, an acceptable way to be a model railroader. Different skills, yes but these are still representations of a real thing. And there have been several articles in various mr hobby magazines that truly show the skills needed to make believable V-scale layouts.
Awesome models in your first post, keep up the good work and best of luck to you.
I hope you’re not suggesting N scale model railroading is less “real” than HO. V-scale appears to be nothing more than advanced computer graphics with railroading as the subject matter. There is nothing of the mechanics, electronics or hands-on craftsmanship that makes actual scale modeling such a satisfying hobby.
I use computerized design to develop plans for new homes and remodeling projects, but I would never fancy myself a home builder.
In my opinion, you’ve made pretty, accurately rendered illustrations, nothing more.
I own both programs and I enjoy some “V-scale” when I can sit in front of the computer long enough.
I’ve found from experience that Trainz is so much more customizable, but MSTS is so much fun to just play with. It has timetables that are just a blast to work.
I believe that Trainz has much better graphics and lends itself to those beautiful screenshots more so than MSTS.
As someone who models in HO, N, and V scales, I can say that each has their own merits, and I really can’t say which one’s better. It all depends on preference.
I like HO because it’s really THERE and looks pretty real.
I like N because you can pack a lot of action into a small space.
I like V because they’re easy to custom paint, and it’s not hard to assemble a huge fleet. Plus, you can run over your favorite routes!
I’ve recently painted up a set of SD40s in CPR, and I’ve also made a good start on modelling my custom road, the APR - It’s so nice to have an “Undo” button!
V-scale is a different way to participate in the hobby of model railroading. Because it requires certain skills, albeit different than conventional methods, it does qualify as a form of model railroading. Although it is an interesting concept, it is definitely not my cup of tea. I like to build and work with my hands and see and feel the three dimensional objects in real time and form. Ain’t nothing like the real thing baby.
Originally, I wouldn’t consider V-Scale as model railroading AT ALL…
…But what if you were a modeler who’s an amputee, quadruplegic or suffers from extreme, debilitating cases of arthritis or parkinson’s disease? Then V-Scale would be a totally acceptable substitute.
Model railroading primarily affects three of our five senses: Sight, Touch and Hearing. V-Scale affects two out of the three, which isn’t that bad.
So V-Scale isn’t model railroading, but still could be. If you have a choice, then it’s just computer animation or a non-competitive video game, really. But if you have no choice, then it’s definitely model railroading.
I’m of the belief that ‘virtual’ hobbies are just as real as any other hobby. That said, I personally prefer ‘real world’ model railroading more. Oh, and, those are really stellar screen shots in your post. Great texture work on that first loco. How much of that stuff did you do? Just curious.
M
You’re forgetting the smell of a molten decoder, and the taste of sawdust as you try to drill into the benchwork from below decks![D)]
I still don’t think it’s appropriate to call it modeling, any more than playing an Indy 500 video game can be called driving. Video games certainly qualify as a hobby, and that’s what this is, a video gaming hobby. It is not building a model of anything. It’s building an image of a something, (and I’ll agree that the images are stunning…) then manipulating it on a video screen. That’s electronic graphics and video gaming, not model building.
If you have a choice, then it’s just computer animation or a non-competitive video game, really. But if you have no choice, then it’s definitely model railroading.