Are you a fan of the New Haven Railroad?
Do you take enjoyment in running electric locomotives?
If you answered yes to any (or both) of these questions, then you've found the right DLC.
Built in 1956-1957 by General Electric for use on the Virginian Railway, they found a second home on the New Haven Railroad after the juice was turned off in 1962.
Reppo has done an excellent job of recreating these units. At first glance, the shape and the artwork are crisp and well rendered. The New Haven's McGuiness scheme is accurately recreated, and given a subtle but decent weathering job to convey a unit in service. The set is rounded off with a New Haven boxcar, a caboose with passenger view, an AI version of the New Haven GP9, A handful of quick drive ready consists, and several scenarios for the New York - New Haven Route.
Attention to detail on this unit is staggering; with detail inside and out. Starting with the cabview: the operator is greeted by three highly interactive views exist: the forward engineer's view, an engine compartment view (allowing access to the manual pump for raising the pantograph, remote battery cut out, and locomotive brake wheel), and a long hood facing view. all controls on the control panel function, along with the numerous switches concealed within the cabinet door.
Following in the trends set by Reppo's Centipede set, two versions of the engine are included: a running version, and a Cold and Dark version. I tested the unit both ways using the quick drive feature of the sim, and using the sole workshop scenario for the Springfield Line: Springfield – New Haven Route Add-On.
Operating the EL-C is far different than almost any other locomotive. I cannot urge strongly enough to give the the operator's manual a once-over before trying to move this unit (Experience talking here). I really enjoyed the challenge of starting the cold and dark version (it took me a few times to get the hang of it, although it got easier with each attempt). The startup sequence is extremely realistic. If you don't like doing anything other than releasing the brakes and going, I recommend sticking to the running version.
Due to lack of owning the New York - New Haven route, I was unable to test the scenarios included, and cannot comment on them at this time.
It's in my best opinion that Reppo has truly raised the bar yet again with this DLC, and I will more than gladly recommend its ownership to anyone.
