American Truck Simulator Review: Delivering More Than Just Cargo
Go on a virtual cross-country journey with 'American Truck Simulator', the pinnacle of trucking simulations, offering an unparalleled driving experience across iconic American landscapes.
last updated Dec 07, 2023
It's not just about keeping your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road, though.
A Trucker's Dream Gameplay
Let's start this engine with gameplay that’s as smooth as a fresh tarmac. 'American Truck Simulator' (ATS) has this uncanny ability to suck you into its world, where you're cruising down picturesque highways, lugging cargo from one scenic locale to the next. It's not just about keeping your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road, though. You've got a company to grow, trucks to buy, and employees to manage – who knew trucking could be anything like a mini empire-building saga? And I swear, the sense of accomplishment you get when delivering a haul on time, and without a scratch, is just *chef's kiss*. Props to the simulation aspect, which makes MFS 2020's 'check your flaps' look like child's play with its own 'check your fuel' kinda vibe.
Strumming My Pain with His Fingers
Moving onto the symphony of the road, where the sound design is like sweet ear-candy for any virtual trucker. Each engine rumbles and roars with a distinct personality, and driving cross-country with the windows down – yes, digitally speaking – and the FM radio playing country classics, feels like the quintessence of freedom spoiled only slightly by a mix that could use a little more love at the audio buffet. Just beware of the simmering road rage from the AI traffic noise that snitches on their somewhat lackluster intelligence.
A Graphical Journey Across The States
Visually, ATS throws you a postcard from every corner you turn. From the sun-baked deserts of Arizona to the foggy coasts of California, this game has it all. Performance-wise, the game runs smoother than a greased axle on even mid-tier rigs, so you don’t need a NASA-level setup to enjoy those sunsets. However, there's a slight caveat for VR enthusiasts – you might need to tweak your system and dial down expectations to get signs legible and the world less blurry. But once you get past the initial setup, it's like wearing magic goggles that teleport you right into the driver's seat.
The Open Road Beckons
There's something about ATS that really cranks up the immersion to eleven, whether it's the meticulous detail put into the truck cabs or the dynamic weather system that has you gripping your steering wheel during a downpour. I mean, who would’ve thought you could learn route planning, time management, and even patience – yes, it teaches patience – all while hauling ass in a virtual 18-wheeler. The game's longevity is unquestionable with an ever-expanding map through paid DLC that's so well-crafted it has players screaming, 'Take my money!' And trust me, it's a siren call hard to resist.
STEAM RATING
Developer & Publisher
SCS Software
Release Date
February 02, 2016
The Verdict
Even in the face of some minor gripes, 'American Truck Simulator' cruises confidently down the road to glory, showcasing its commitment to delivering an authentic trucking experience wrapped in a blanket of relaxing gameplay. It's a digital road trip that mirrors the spirit of the American highway with vast landscapes and freedom at your fingertips, whether you're a simulation veteran or a Sunday driver. With the truckloads of positive feedback, it's clear this game’s got its wheels well aligned, steering towards becoming a genre-defining title.
