In a surprising move for 2026, the beloved children's character Thomas The Tank Engine is set to star in a dedicated train simulator, sparking excitement among adult fans and gaming enthusiasts alike. While Thomas has appeared in video games before, such as a 2015 Nintendo 3DS title, none have made a significant impact, often relegated to comedic mods in games like The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim or Resident Evil 2.
A New Era for Thomas in Gaming
Now, Dovetail Games, renowned for its hardcore Train Sim World series, is actively developing Thomas & Friends: Wonders Of Sodor. This isn't the studio's first foray into the franchise, as it released Thomas-themed DLC for Train Sim World 6 last year, but this marks a full-fledged game that promises to blend accessibility with serious simulation elements.
Gameplay and Features
The game allows players to control various characters and drive them along railways, featuring accessible controls combined with the detailed realism of Unreal Engine and Simugraph, the same tool used in Train Sim World. The main attraction is exploring the island of Sodor through eight original stories, narrated by British actor Mark Moraghan, who voiced the TV show from 2013 to 2017.
Additionally, Wonders Of Sodor includes a timetable mode for following work schedules and a free roam option for creative play. While aimed at children, the game's depth has caught the attention of adult fans, as seen in enthusiastic YouTube comments praising its potential.
Fan Reactions and Release Details
Comments from fans highlight the nostalgia and excitement, with one user noting, 'My childhood self would’ve screamed in joy if he saw this!' The game is scheduled for release on all major platforms, including PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PC, with a deluxe edition offering extra content, though pricing remains unannounced.
This development signals a unique crossover in gaming, merging a classic children's franchise with the technical demands of train simulation, appealing to a broad audience from kids to hardcore simulator enthusiasts.
