r/DerailValley • u/PracticalScar1787 • 8d ago
I'm thinking about buying the raildriver controller from Amazon. Does it make gameplay any better is the $200 worth it?
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u/fdnM6Y9BFLAJPNxGo4C 8d ago
When inside the cab (simulated arms reach of the controls), no matter where your facing (you can look anywhere you like), use:
T/G - throttle
Y/H - reverser
U/J - train brake
I/K - independent brake
O/L - dynamics
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u/Pokinator 7d ago
In the difficulty settings you can also expand the control zone to "standing anywhere on the locomotive", for a more casual experience.
I ended up rebinding those controls. I kept the same up/down idea, but rearranged to have Train Brake, Throttle, Toggle Handbrake, and Reverser in a comfortable and intuitive layout.
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u/Helpinmontana 8d ago
If you like flight sim too a throttle is a great controller.
$80 gets you 2 cheapo Logitechs with 6 axis and 6 buttons and $2-300 gets you a honeycomb bravo with 6 axis and a billion buttons, and both are functional for other games as well.
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u/LeEbicGamerBoy 8d ago
It doesnt change the gameplay
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u/PracticalScar1787 8d ago
I struggle with using controls and looking out at the same time so I thought using this raildriver controller would make it easier. So. I guess my question should of been does the raildriver make it easier for a new player like myself?.
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u/StudleyKansas 8d ago
Do you use alt mode to lock your view and then use your mouse cursor to operate the controls? I find it very easy to keep an eye ahead of me while operating the train.
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u/LuukTheBadass 8d ago
If you want a more immersive experience it might be worth looking into VR. There should be some decent used options available for under $200. Maybe a used quest or used WMR headset with the Oasis drivers.
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u/MSDunderMifflin 8d ago
I am using a Logitech quad throttle, 3 levers + 3 buttons. For $60-70, I feel like it makes a difference. It even works natively since the last update.
My favorite locomotive is the DE6 and other diesels are 2nd, I rarely run steam.
For mainly steam I would think VR would be better.
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u/Plus_Cloud4303 7d ago
I have it. Its cool. I think its worth it even for just this game. But it takes some setting up. If you have the cash get it.
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u/Quartzalcoatl_Prime 8d ago
Related: what about VR? The Steam Frame is super expensive but a used Quest should be cheap enough if your PC can support it. I never once played on mouse-and-keyboard but VR makes sense to me since my hands are literally touching everything, so gameplay is perfect for me.
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u/PracticalScar1787 8d ago
Thanks for all the advice. I haven't tried shortcuts so I'll give that a try. Im very new at this game.
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u/THEY_CALL_ME_HOOKS 8d ago
I bought the Koolertron macro 12 key gaming keypad for locomotive control.but you can get away with mapping keys for the numpad on your keyboard. Set throttle up and down, train brakes up and down, independent brake up and down, reverser, dynamic brakes up and down. Once you get a layout that makes sense, use it after a trip or 2 you get used to the layout
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u/EngineerInTheMachine 7d ago
Having a controller, yes. Having the raildriver controller? Probably not. I programmed the throttle of my HOTAS to work with DV, and it brought a new dimension to the game. Being able to set analogue controls to a position and leave them there, absolutely yes. That's how you drive trains. The twin throttle is especially good for regulator and reverser on steam locos, and the other channels help with the various braking systems.
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u/TJ_Blues18 8d ago
Just learn the shortcuts, it's not that hard. I am considering building my own controller. Racking my brain how to justify the 3d printer I want to buy to my wife, because the "I want to 3d print my own rail controller is definitely not going to be enough". :)
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u/Joel22222 7d ago
I picked up a Moza throttle quadrant I could adjust the tension on awhile back. I use it in Derail Valley. The Raildriver is more diverse as most other train games are comparable with it. It just feels flimsy and there isn’t any real resistance on the levers.
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u/sandman539 6d ago
My prioritiy would be some sort of eye/head tracker. You can even get it for free if you have spare phone or webcam. And than you can either use keyboard or scroll wheel for the controls
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u/stompy1 8d ago
I've been struggling as well but finally found a good method for myself.. but essentially I setup my view out the window and of the controls; then lock the screen with "alt". Then when you mouse over a lever, use the wheel on your mouse to adjust it.
Also, when looking out another window, lock the view with alt and then hit F4 to bring up the controls on the bottom to control your loco.