Euro Truck Simulator 2 Review

Released in 2012, Euro Truck Simulator 2 marked a turning point for the truck simulation genre and quickly became a cornerstone for vehicle simulation enthusiasts worldwide. Despite its modest PC requirements, this game skyrocketed in popularity and solidified a successful franchise that continues to captivate players to this day. ETS2 combines realism with engaging gameplay, allowing players to embark on a journey across Europe as they deliver cargo, manage their trucking businesses, and explore a vast open-world environment.

Exploring Europe: Free Driving and Realistic Environments

The original version of Euro Truck Simulator 2 supported free driving through multiple European countries, including the United Kingdom, Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, and others. Players can traverse these regions while encountering realistic road networks, iconic landmarks, and dynamic cities. The game fosters a deep sense of immersion with features such as authentic trucks, traffic rules, weather conditions, and a day-night cycle.

While many simulation games focus on racing, ETS2 emphasizes careful driving, requiring players to hone their skills, maintain endurance, and deliver cargo safely to over 60 European cities. These cities are connected by thousands of kilometers of meticulously designed road networks and feature hundreds of famous structures, creating an experience that mirrors the life of a real truck driver on their long journeys.

Single-Player Challenges and Thriving Online Community

Euro Truck Simulator 2 offers a comprehensive single-player experience, where players must upgrade their trucks, manage their own freight forwarding businesses, and customize various aspects of their vehicles. In addition to this, the game connects players to the World of Trucks online community. Here, players can participate in conversations, share screenshots and Photo mode creations, manage their avatars and license plates, and engage with other trucking enthusiasts.

A Fleet of Realistic Trucks and Continuous DLC Support

ETS2 boasts a large fleet of trucks from renowned manufacturers like Mercedes, Volvo, and Scania. Numerous paid expansions further enhance the gameplay experience, unlocking access to new European territories such as the Baltics, Italy, France, and more. Despite its age, the game continues to receive regular DLC updates, including notable expansions like Going East (2013), Scandinavia (2015), Viva la France (2016), Italy (2016), Beyond the Baltic Sea (2018), Road to the Black Sea (2019), Iberia (2021), and Greece (2024). Players can look forward to even more releases in the future.

Highlights of Euro Truck Simulator 2

• The sequel to the acclaimed 2008 Euro Truck Simulator, which popularized the vehicle simulation genre globally.
• Drive licensed trucks manufactured by MAN, Scania, Renault, and other brands such as Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, Iveco, and DAF.
• Explore dozens of European cities connected by thousands of kilometers of realistic road networks.
• Deliver goods on time while mastering fast yet safe driving and adhering to traffic rules.
• Immerse yourself in the lifestyle of an experienced truck driver and customize your vehicles extensively.
• Enjoy the innovative radio system that streams real European internet radio based on the country you’re driving through.
• Benefit from long-term DLC support, introducing new countries and detailed truck customization options.
• Optimized for modern Windows 10 and 11 operating systems.

Key Features: Extensive Maps and Realistic Mechanics

Euro Truck Simulator 2 features a meticulously crafted map of Europe, encompassing countless cities, landmarks, and diverse landscapes. From the bustling streets of Paris to the winding roads of the Swiss Alps, each location offers unique challenges and opportunities for exploration.

The game’s physics engine excels at simulating realistic truck behavior, with attention to detail spanning engine sounds, suspension dynamics, weight distribution, and more. As players progress, they can manage their own trucking companies by hiring drivers, expanding fleets, and upgrading facilities. Cargo management plays a vital role in the gameplay, demanding strategic decisions to optimize routes and profits.

Modding Support and Multiplayer Mode

Euro Truck Simulator 2 enjoys a robust modding community that extends its appeal even further. Mods allow players to introduce new trucks, trailers, graphical improvements, and weather enhancements, offering nearly endless customization possibilities.

The multiplayer mode lets players collaborate with friends or other trucking enthusiasts for cooperative deliveries. This social aspect enriches the overall experience, adding a sense of camaraderie as players travel the roads together.

Intuitive User Interface

The ETS2 user interface strikes a balance between simplicity and functionality. The main menu provides easy access to game modes, settings, and mod management. Within the game, the heads-up display (HUD) delivers essential information, such as speed, fuel level, and GPS navigation. The user interface is thoughtfully designed, ensuring players can focus on the road and their deliveries without distractions.

Gameplay Journey: Starting, Delivering, and Expanding

Upon launching the game, players create a profile and customize their character. They select a starting city and their first truck from a limited pool, setting out with the goal of earning money and expanding their trucking empire. Jobs are offered by various companies, each with specific requirements and deadlines. Players must navigate the roads carefully, dock trailers at loading points, and complete deliveries successfully to earn rewards and reputation points.

As players progress, their business expands with the acquisition of new trucks and facilities. Hiring AI drivers and optimizing delivery routes become crucial components of managing a growing enterprise. This gameplay progression keeps players engaged while offering opportunities for creativity and strategy.

Pricing and Availability

Euro Truck Simulator 2 is available for purchase on multiple platforms, including Steam and the official SCS Software website. The base game is priced at approximately $19.99, with frequent discounts during sales events. Additionally, the game offers numerous downloadable content packs (DLCs) to enhance the experience, providing new trucks, map expansions, and customization options.

With its immersive gameplay, realistic mechanics, and dedicated community, Euro Truck Simulator 2 remains a standout title in the vehicle simulation genre, offering countless hours of engaging and rewarding gameplay.