TL;DR
Introduce elevated curved ramps to allow trains to descend or ascend while navigating curves, enabling the construction of compact and aesthetically pleasing cloverleaf intersections.
What?
I propose adding elevated curved ramps to Factorio's rail system. These ramps would function as curved rail segments that transition smoothly between different elevations, allowing trains to change heights while turning. This addition would complement existing straight ramps and curved rail sections, facilitating the creation of more compact and visually cohesive rail junctions.
Why?
Currently, constructing cloverleaf intersections with the available rail components often results in sprawling designs with awkward gaps and jagged transitions. Elevated curved ramps would enable players to design space-efficient and neat intersections, enhancing both the functionality and aesthetics of rail networks. This feature aligns with Factorio's emphasis on optimization and thoughtful planning, providing players with greater flexibility in their transport infrastructure designs.
Benefits:
- Allows for more compact and space-efficient rail junctions.
- Enhances aesthetics of multi-level rail networks.
- Streamlines construction of cloverleaf intersections and other multi-level designs.
- Reduces the need for makeshift solutions and jagged transitions.
The curved ramp would act just like the existing straight ramp, but instead of transitioning height in a straight line, it would allow for a partial curve.
Placement mechanics would be similar to the straight ramp, requiring alignment with existing elevated rail heights.
The radius and angle of the curve would match existing curved rail sections, ensuring seamless integration with standard track layouts.
Visual design would include supports and a smooth gradient to clearly show the height transition and curvature.
Integration with current rail systems, including signals and other infrastructure, would work identically to current elevated rail components.
Potential Balancing Considerations:
- Cost: The crafting cost of elevated curved ramps should be the same as the existing straight ramps, maintaining consistency in resource requirements.
- Unlockable alongside or shortly after straight ramps in the technology tree.
- Placement mechanics to encourage thoughtful planning, consistent with Factorio’s design philosophy.
Elevated curved ramps would be a valuable addition to Factorio’s rail-building toolkit, empowering players to create efficient, aesthetically pleasing, and optimized rail networks. This addition would align perfectly with Factorio's core principles and enhance player satisfaction.
Thank you for considering this suggestion! Feedback is welcome, and I’d love to hear how the community could refine this idea further.
