Next year, it's "All aboard!" for the continuation of the top-selling "Train Simulator" line. PC owners of all ages can command a 5,000-ton modern diesel locomotive or engineer a steam-breathing behemoth from the past in "Microsoft Train Simulator 2." The follow-up to the No. 1 best-selling train simulation game, this newest edition of Microsoft's "Train Simulator" series charges full steam ahead with new trains, five world-famous routes from around the globe and realistic landscapes, all brought to life with populated train stations, moving cars and animals that roam the countryside. "Microsoft Train Simulator 2" is expected to be on shelves in January 2004.

UK-based developer Kuju will hand over development responsibilities to Microsoft for the sequel to Train Simulator.

According to a Dow Jones report, Kuju Entertainment has signed a deal with Microsoft that will end its role in developing Train Simulator 2. Microsoft will take over development of the project, which is designed to greatly increase the level of detail and realism in the 3D train-driving simulation series. The move is a part of restructuring efforts at Kuju that will have the company focus on console and wireless projects.