I'm wanting to make a train simulator. I know how to model objects, but when it comes to actually creating a game I need to find some more specific tutorials.

For one, I'm not sure if I should even be doing this part in blender and should use blender for modeling then something like Unity3d or C4 for the engine portion.

The next part is creating huge above and underground worlds and the performance issues that come with that without dealing with loading screens or performance hits. Basically need something that will manage a view distance and load on the fly. But then unsure how I should store my "levels" or maps.

The final part would be an actual good vehicle tutorial on a train (or anything I could adapt) to follow a track.

I'm not looking for any hand outs, just to be pointed in the right direction.

I appreciate any help. Thanks!