Euro Truck Simulator 2: Hauling Cargo Across Picturesque Europe
Euro Truck Simulator 2 will take you on a journey across Europe as you've never seen it before—behind the wheel of a big rig, delivering cargo and chasing that trucker's horizon.
last updated Dec 07, 2023
Euro Truck Simulator 2: The serene solitude of the open road and blissful banter of an online convoy.
Living the Truck Life
Imagine you've traded in your gamer chair for a leather beast with air-suspension—you're about to drive a digital rendition of a European juggernaut across beautiful landscapes. The game simulates truck driving incredibly well, and don't get me started on the backing into parking spots. It’s the sort of thing that could turn a sane person into a rage-quitting hermit, but didn’t someone once say what doesn't kill you gives you XP? Despite occasionally feeling like a conveyor belt to industrial monotony with endless warehouses and factories, it's balanced out by moments where the sight of an iconic city landmark makes you want to bust out your camera and smash that screenshot key.
Symphony on the Road
Now for the music to our trucking ears—Euro Truck Simulator 2’s audio is crisp faster than leaves falling in autumn. The radio won't disappoint, with an option to stream your jams as you head down the motorway, giving you the delightful illusion of being a trucker with better taste in music than anyone else on the road. Sound effects are convincing enough that you may be reaching out to grab a real gear stick or turn on the A/C. Just be warned if your playlist runs dry, the silence will have you contemplating every life choice that led you to simulating trucking instead of, say, robbing medieval peasants in another game.
Postcard-Worthy Graphics?
Let's talk eye candy, shall we? Euro Truck Simulator 2 is pretty much what you'd expect for a game that’s been around longer than some of the cheese in your fridge. While the visuals aren't going to require you to install new shelves for gaming awards, they do the job. Performance is trucking fantastic, almost as if the game is running on an engine powered by dreams of open roads and lower gas prices. That said, don’t expect the scenery to change as much as grandma's Facebook profile picture—industrial areas dominate, and the landscape can sometimes feel a touch barren, like a salad without any dressing.
Mods: The Cargo We Deserve
The modding scene for Euro Truck Simulator 2 is as robust as a steel toe-cap boot. This is where the community really shines, turbocharging the game with everything from graphical overhauls to new rigs and custom cargo. Mods can polish those parts of the game that might feel as outdated as last year's meme, adding a new layer of paint and keeping the rust at bay. It’s the gaming equivalent of a refuel – it’ll keep you going, even when the vanilla content starts running on fumes.
Multiplayer Madness
Ah, multiplayer—the place where you discover that your friends' driving styles are either law-abiding citizens or escaped demolition derby champions. The game's online mode turns the chill, solitary trucking life into a road trip with your buddies, minus the arguments over who ate the last bag of chips. It’s easy to set up, and trucking with friends while discussing the world's problems is some of the best multiplayer experiences out there. The occasional 500k repair bill courtesy of your friend’s 'wacky' driving is just a small speedbump in some excellent online escapades.
VR: Where Dreams (Don't) Come True?
Mention VR, and some get as excited as a cat chasing a laser pointer, but for Euro Truck Simulator 2, it's not sunshine and rainbows. The integration feels as smooth as sandpaper, and even those running top-notch rigs with specs straight out of sci-fi complain about the quality. While to the naked eye, the VR experience looks like a cool feature for such a seasoned title, the reality is a different experience. It’s like wanting sprinkles on your ice cream and getting lentils instead. Disappointing, but hey, some people like lentils, right?
STEAM RATING
Developer & Publisher
SCS Software
Release Date
October 12, 2012
The Verdict
As the sun sets over the digital autobahn, Euro Truck Simulator 2 stands triumphantly, holding a flag of authenticity that flutters proudly in the virtual wind. It's a relaxing journey through the European continent, albeit with a few potholes along the way. The game is an old-timer, but don't let its age fool you—it's aged like a fine wine in a digital cellar, with an inviting blend of simulation realism and engaging gameplay. If you're the kind to enjoy the serene solitude of the open road or blissful banter of an online convoy with friends, this is your ticket to ride. Hitch up that trailer, it's time to see what being a true road king feels like!
