The original Train Simulator series (1995–2000) was designed from technology which was previously used to develop the Ongakukan product "Touch the Music by Casiopea", which synchronized video with audio.
This particular game was based on music from the jazz fusion band Casiopea, whose keyboard player at the time, Minoru Mukaiya, was, and is, also the CEO of Ongakukan.
The Train Simulator PLUS series was designed for the Windows system and its releases were limited to Japan.
Released on PlayStation Portable system from 2005 to 2006 and available in Japan and Asia (Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore).
First version released in November 2022, JR East Train Simulator was the first title in the series to be regularly updated in the West.