American Truck Simulator

Simulation games have gained immense popularity over the past two decades, providing a diverse range of experiences on both computers and gaming consoles. These games allow you to immerse yourself in various activities, such as caring for animals, piloting aircraft, or managing a bustling theme park. In this article, we’ll explore the captivating world of American Truck Simulator, where you have the opportunity to navigate the expansive landscapes and iconic landmarks of the United States from behind the wheel of your very own truck.

As you embark on your virtual trucking journey, you’ll learn more about the engaging gameplay mechanics and immersive features of American Truck Simulator. From picturesque scenery to bustling urban centers, this game will provide you with an unparalleled experience of the American trucking industry. So buckle up and prepare yourself for an unforgettable adventure.

What Is American Truck Simulator?

American Truck Simulator is a highly popular game created and published by SCS Software, known for their successful Truck Simulator series. The series originated with Euro Truck Simulator in 2008, followed by its sequel in 2012. In 2013, SCS Software announced the development of a new title set in the United States.

Revealed at E3 in 2015, American Truck Simulator was made available for gameplay in 2016. The game has surpassed 2 million sales on Steam and gained a favorable reception from critics, with an average score of 7.5 out of 10. As you play, your knowledge and skills in truck simulation and business management will surely grow in this captivating and well-crafted game.

American Truck Simulator Gameplay

In American Truck Simulator, you step into the role of a trucker, traversing the US and taking on various jobs to transport goods within a specified timeframe. Your objective is to select the most efficient routes to complete jobs while balancing both the business aspects and the thrill of driving across the country.

During your journeys, you’ll encounter challenges like border stops, weight checks, and, of course, traffic. As you complete jobs, you’ll earn in-game currency, which can be used to purchase and customize your truck—changing wheels, paint jobs, and more to suit your style.

Upgrading trucks, trailers, and garages will improve performance and allow you to own multiple trucks. Currently, American Truck Simulator features only 11 US states, with some available as paid DLC. While more states are planned for future releases, the progress has been slow in expanding the map since the game’s launch.

As a trucking simulation game, American Truck Simulator offers an engaging experience of managing a trucking business, driving various trucks, and delivering cargoes across a gradually expanding map. Just like in Euro Truck Simulator 2, players can enjoy the addition of new areas and mods, creating a truly immersive and realistic trucking adventure.

How Can You Play American Truck Simulator?

To enjoy American Truck Simulator, begin by purchasing the game on Steam or as a PC-DVD. It’s typically priced at $19.99 for the digital format, exclusively available on Steam. Ensure your computer meets the system requirements, such as having a 64-bit operating system, 4 GB of RAM, dual-core CPU 2.4 GHz processor, and a GeForce GTS 450 (Intel HD 4000) graphics card or equivalent.

After purchasing the game, either download it on Steam or insert the PC-DVD version and follow the onscreen instructions for installation. Keep in mind that for DLC access, you need a Steam account and a digital copy of the game.

American Truck Simulator offers various downloadable content (DLC) options on Steam, giving players the choice to customize and expand their gaming experience. These range from free customization packs for adding truck features like new wheels or paint jobs to paid DLCs that incorporate new states to your game’s map. The cost of each DLC pack varies, with the most extensive ones priced at approximately $11.99.

The Pros and Cons of American Truck Simulator

Pros:

• Entertainment: The game offers hours of enjoyable simulation experience to keep players engaged.
• Customization: Players can run their own trucking business and personalize their trucks with various accessories.
• Escapism: The game allows players to tackle problems and experiments without real-life consequences.
• Quality: American Truck Simulator is known for its high-quality graphics and gameplay, similar to other top simulation games.

Cons:

• Limited Map: The game currently covers only a small part of the United States, which might lead to repetitive gameplay.
• DLC Paywalls: Several map expansions are available as purchasable DLCs, limiting the accessible states for those who do not wish to spend extra money.
• Perceived Incompleteness: Due to the limited map and additional states locked behind paywalls, some players feel they are paying for an unfinished game.

Regardless of the limitations, American Truck Simulator offers a virtual experience of driving iconic trucks like the Freightliner Cascadia and Mack Anthem across America, maintaining fuel efficiency and managing speed limits. Moreover, players can hire and manage NPC drivers, purchase garages, and earn experience points to expand their trucking empire.

A Few More Thoughts

As you continue to explore this game, remember that digital purchase through Steam will grant you access to free updates and DLC packs. You’ll surely cherish the experience of cruising with legendary American trucks across breathtaking landscapes, from sunny California to sandy Nevada. Along the way, visit widely recognized landmarks like the Grand Canyon and engage with convoy events on World of Trucks.