The most anticipated simulation of 2016 is finally here. American Truck Simulator has to be the most sought-after stimulation since the release of Euro Truck Simulator 2. In fact, there hasn’t been an American truck simulator since the 18-Wheeler series, and that was many, many years ago. Thanks to this release, it is now possible to drive the back roads and freeways of California.
The game’s content may not be as vast as the Euro Truck Series, but it’s twice as complex. It’s just a matter of time before SCS Software releases additional content that will expand our adventures across America. But as of right now, American Truck Simulator allows you to explore the greater California area, including Las Vegas.
The game starts with the player either taking out a bank loan or working contracted jobs from other trucking companies, until enough money is made to purchase a truck startup company. The game is far more realistic than the Euro Truck Simulator series, as you must worry about weight stations and checking the weight of your loads to meet road regulations. This feature is absolutely brilliant by itself. But what would make it even better is the ability to have a Driver Log book to keep track of your loads, weight and driving hours. Then allow the DoT (Department of Transportation) fine you for incomplete logs or excessive driving without taking a rest. This feature would make the game even more realistic. It would make you feel like you were actually roaming around the streets in a truck that is similar to an 18-wheeler. The only advantage that you have to playing this game instead of driving one in real life, is that you can’t physically injure or kill somebody. The same can’t be said for people who drive them in real life; they must be really careful when it comes to driving a truck this big. There could be serious implications after an accident with an 18-wheeler for both the driver and the victim. Even to the point of them wanting to contact a lawyer so they can receive compensation for something like their medical bills. As this game is realistic, this could help drivers to make sure that they know how to drive safely on the roads at all times. That doesn’t mean to say that you can’t have fun at the same time.
The visual effects (i.e. the environments and models) are absolutely stunning. The number of authentic-looking landmarks, shopping centers and locations that have been rendered for the game are staggering. As of right now, American Truck Simulator only has two major truck brands — Peterbilt and Kenworth. There’s no need to fret, however; both manufacturers have multiple trucks to choose from, making the available truck selection rather large. But there is a possibility that SCS could implement additional manufacturers in a future patch, adding to the game’s longevity. As a fan of truck simulators in general, I would like nothing more than to drive a Volvo brand truck up and down the coastline of California.
While playing American Truck Simulator, there is one feature that stands out — when you finally arrive at your destination with your freight and have to choose from three difficulty settings. Each difficulty provides a different method of parking that is not only challenging, but very rewarding. There is even an option to opt out on parking altogether, and have your truck dock automatically. These features make docking a more pleasurable experience. They also make the game more challenging for simulator veterans wanting more from their simulation experience.
For the first time, American Truck Simulator brings a large amount of customization to the series. You can even change and/or swap out your truck’s transmission, engine, and body style; and this doesn’t even include the customization that can be done to the cab as well. The amount of customization available is mind-boggling.
The driving mechanics are similar to Euro Truck simulator, with precise handling and steering. You can accurately control your truck using the keyboard and mouse, and it feels comfortable in the process. The controls are rock-solid, and you can almost feel it as you drive your truck on the freeways and back streets of California and Nevada. Aside from the controls, the traffic is simply the best of any truck simulator.
Traffic actually obeys the traffic laws, yielding or even stopping when you make turns or pull out from side road streets. Moreover, you can make a right on a red light and traffic will even yield if you approach. And this doesn’t include pedestrians and other objects moving around in the environment. Everything inside the truck cab is authentic, including the gauges (which actually work), an authentic, working GPS that sits on the dashboard, and working side mirrors that add to the game’s overall realism.
Plus, the game supports game controllers and steering wheel combinations. American Truck Simulator also recognizes the clutch system in the Logitech g27 steering wheel; simply brilliant.
The graphics and sound effects are unrivaled by anything currently available. American Truck Simulator happens to be the most authentic truck simulator available today, even trumping the Euro Truck Series. There’s even an MP3 Player to play your own music, as well as internet radio stations that broadcast live across America.
There’s pretty much nothing American Truck Simulator does not offer. If you are a fan of the Euro Truck series, you will definitely enjoy this latest entry by SCS Software. Nothing beats driving on the freeways, highways and back roads of California and Nevada.
James ‘Daripp3r’ Pittaro
Platform: PC (Available on Steam)
System Requirements
Minimum:
OS: Windows 7 64-bit
Processor: Dual core CPU 2.4 GHz
Memory: 4 GB RAM
Graphics: GeForce GTS 450-class (Intel HD 4000)
Storage: 3 GB available space
Developer: SCS Software
Publisher: SCS Software
ESRB: N/A
Price: $19.99
Steam link: http://store.steampowered.com/app/270880/
| Review Score | |
|---|---|
| Graphics |  |
| The roads, freeways and landmarks from both California and Nevada can be easily identified. | |
| Sound | |
| The sound effects are the most authentic of any simulator. The roar of the engines; the changing of the gears; and my personal favorite -- using the j-break and listening to the engine combustion slow down on the engine. | |
| Gameplay | |
| The most engrossing simulator since the Euro Truck series. With a dynamic day and night cycle, as well as a realistic weather system, you are guaranteed an authentic experience every time you play. | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
| I haven't been this impressed by a truck simulator since Euro Truck 2. American Truck Simulator is guaranteed to give you the best simulation experience possible, bar none. | |
