Microsoft - Train Simulator Apunkagames [best]

This guide provides instructions on how to download, install, and troubleshoot Microsoft Train Simulator (MSTS), specifically focusing on the version commonly found on platforms like ApunKaGames.

🔧 Quick Setup Tips

  1. Extract the downloaded archive using WinRAR or 7-Zip.
  2. Run Setup.exe (or the installer provided).
  3. If the game doesn’t start on Windows 10/11, try:
    • Running in Windows XP (Service Pack 2) compatibility mode.
    • Installing Open Rails (a free, modern open-source train simulator that can use MSTS content).

Safety (Virus Scans)

ApunkaGames has a mixed reputation. While the MSTS file itself is usually clean (it's old code), the download process is risky. The pop-ups often contain malware. Always scan the extracted train.exe with VirusTotal before running it.

2. Download & Installation Guide

If you are downloading the repacked version from ApunKaGames, the process usually involves compression archives. microsoft train simulator apunkagames

  1. Download: Locate the download link (usually split into parts or a single .rar or .zip file).
  2. Extract: You will need software like WinRAR or 7-Zip.
    • Right-click the downloaded file.
    • Select Extract Here or Extract to "MSTS".
  3. Setup:
    • Open the extracted folder.
    • Look for Setup.exe or Install.exe.
    • Note: If the file is an .ISO file, you may need to mount it using Windows Explorer (Right-click -> Mount).
  4. Install Path: This is critical.
    • Do NOT install the game in C:\Program Files.
    • Create a new folder, for example: C:\TrainSimulator or D:\Games\TrainSimulator.
    • Reason: MSTS needs permission to write save files, and Program Files is a protected system folder that will block the game from saving.

Review: Microsoft Train Simulator (from Apunkagames)

Verdict: A classic simulation gem, but getting it running is half the battle.

How to Actually Play the Apunkagames Version

  1. Download the .exe or .zip from Apunkagames (ignore the fake “Download Now” buttons).
  2. Extract to C:\MSTS (not Program Files—permission issues).
  3. Run install.bat as administrator.
  4. Apply the official v1.2 update (find it on The Wayback Machine or TrainSim.com).
  5. Set train.exe to Windows XP (SP3) compatibility + Run as Admin.
  6. Download the “MSTS No-CD registry patch” separately (critical for the Apunka version).

Who is this for?

✅ Train enthusiasts who love manual braking and signal rules.
✅ Retro sim collectors who don’t mind tweaking .ini files.
✅ Anyone who wants to later migrate to Open Rails for free. This guide provides instructions on how to download,

❌ Casual gamers expecting Train Sim World graphics.
❌ Users afraid of editing system files or registry.
❌ People without ad-blockers or antivirus software.

Major Issues with the Apunkagames Version

| Issue | Impact | |-------|--------| | No Windows 10/11 native support | Crashes instantly. You must run in compatibility mode (WinXP SP2) and apply the MSTS 1.2 Update (not included in most Apunka repacks). | | Missing Train Simulator | The default installer often skips the critical train.exe or registry entries. | | Resolution lock | Stuck at 1024x768. Requires manual editing of no_cd.reg or using Train Simulator Add-on Manager (TSAM) to unlock widescreen. | | Potential malware | Apunkagames has a mixed history. Scan every file with Malwarebytes before running. | Extract the downloaded archive using WinRAR or 7-Zip

Is it worth it in 2026?

Yes - but only for nostalgia.