Had something similar to this with the kids with Lego Duplo tracks, similar topology but the switches gave the system state. Going "backwards" through a switch set the train to return that direction when coming the other way.

So we had a goal to make the train do interesting behaviors, like cover the entire track autonomously, pushing the switches itself. The biggest run I remember was a 4 bit counter.

Kid is now entering his last year of CS + Maths degree, so I guess it checks out.