BVE
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BVE (Abbreviation of Boso View Express) is a freeware train simulator written by Mr. Mackoy from Japan. It is currently available for the Windows 98, Windows Me, Windows 2000, and Windows XP operating systems. Users have also had success running BVE on software emulators such as Virtual PC, and WINE. Version 2 of BVE requires DirectX, while the latest version 4 release requires the Microsoft .NET platform be installed.
Users from all over the world have created hundreds of routes, objects, trains, and sounds for BVE.
Downloading BVE
The program can only be downloaded from the official website set up by its creator, Mr. Mackoy.
Other utilities may be downloaded from the same website, including:
- Track Viewer - for viewing CSV and RW routes
- Structure Viewer - for viewing CSV and B3D objects
- Motor Editor - for editing train sounds
There are also these utilities, which have not been translated yet into English:
- Train Editor - for making trains
- Gauge Editor - a useful tool for making gauges on train panels or for display
- Mirror - for rotating an object
- Object Converter - for converting B3D objects into CSV objects, and vise-versa
Creation of content
Routes are written in a format called CSV (a variant of the data format), or in the older RW format. Routes must include the appropriate object files, a default train to run, and may include additional sound files played along the route.
Objects in routes are written either in CSV or in the older B3D format. Objects without simple RGB colours use bitmap files instead, and they must be included. BVE 4 also supports use of DirectX (.x) files for objects, although not all features of this format work correctly in the program.
Trains may be either drivers' view or passengers' view. Both consist of large text files with the train characteristics and physics, a series of bitmaps files for the panels or surroundings as well as what a picture of the train itself, and sound files. BVE sound files include: door opening, door closing, clearance to depart, engine sounds, brake application, emergency brake application, running sounds, short horn, long horn, bell, and drivers' vigilance device.
Sounds are simply WAV files.
While routes for BVE have traditionally been hand-coded due to the lack of an editor, many routes today are made using RouteBuilder (see above link).
BVE supports all types of train operation (manual, ATO, etc.) but does not simulate moving objects. Therefore, one will see a static train on an opposite track. BVE also does not currently support flashing signals.
Important things to note is that due to different character encoding between Asian and Western systems, Asian routes take much repair to work on Western systems, unless the author has made a western version, and that the .RW format is not supported since version 4.
External links
- Official BVE Website (http://mackoy.cool.ne.jp)