18 Wheels of Steel: Extreme Trucker
- September 23, 2009
- SCS Software
In 18 Wheels of Steel: Extreme Trucker, take on the role of a truck driver navigating treacherous terrains and harsh weather conditions while building your reputation and expanding your hauling empire. Handle extreme loads, maintain your rig, and experience the thrill of off-road trucking in this immersive and challenging simulation. Your heart will pump as you become a true master of the roads less traveled.
PC
Windows
Reviews
- The game offers a fun and relaxing driving experience across unique terrains like the Andes, Canada, and Australia.
- Despite its age, the game still provides enjoyable gameplay and can be a nostalgic experience for fans of the series.
- The arcade-style driving mechanics and the ability to crash without severe penalties add to the casual fun.
- The game is outdated, with graphics and gameplay that feel significantly inferior to newer truck simulators like Euro Truck Simulator 2.
- Limited replayability and a lack of customization options for trucks make the gameplay feel repetitive and shallow.
- Many players find the mission structure boring, as it only allows for point-to-point deliveries with minimal freedom.
- graphics11 mentions
- 55 % positive mentions
- 18 % neutral mentions
- 27 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are widely criticized for being outdated, with many reviewers noting that they resemble those of games released years prior. While some acknowledge that the graphics are serviceable for its age, the overall consensus is that they fall short of modern standards, detracting from the experience for players expecting more visually appealing content. Despite this, a few users mention that the game's fun factor can still shine through, even with the lackluster visuals.
“The graphics are serviceable, not as good as ETS 2, but it's older, so it's to be expected.”
“It's quite simple, the graphics still look good.”
“Despite its dated graphics, it's still a fun game.”
“Graphics are so old, I can name 20 games right now that were released 5 years before this game with 10 times better graphics. I love old games, but this is a floppy era game!”
“Horrible graphics, gameplay, everything!”
“All you do is understeer; the graphics are so bad (not to say you need good ones for a good game), but these are just terrible.”
- story4 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 75 % negative mentions
The story in "American Long Haul" revolves around players taking on the role of a truck driver, engaging in point-to-point missions to earn points and unlock new levels. While the game improves the mission initiation process compared to its predecessor, some players still find it confusing to navigate and start missions. Overall, the narrative is straightforward but lacks depth and clarity.
“After playing American Long Haul, the only thing in this that is better is that after you push 'New Game', you actually get a mission and you don't have to spend 10 minutes pressing every key on the keyboard just to figure out how to start the game.”
“It is a point-to-point mission game.”
“Players take on the role of a truck driver, and you choose different missions to gain points to unlock other levels.”
“I can't figure out how to start a mission or to travel anywhere; still don't care...”
- music4 mentions
- 75 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The music in the game evokes strong emotional responses for some players, particularly the menu theme, which can be nostalgic. However, overall, the soundtrack is considered forgettable, yet it effectively fulfills its role within the game.
“But yesterday I was reunited with them, and that menu music on American Long Haul almost made me tear up.”
“That's the theme song to this game.”
“(country music guitar riff)”
“The music's forgettable, but it serves its purpose.”
- gameplay4 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 75 % negative mentions
The gameplay has received mixed reviews, with some users criticizing it for being outdated and boring, likening it to a game from 15 years ago, while others find it enjoyable and reminiscent of arcade-style games. Overall, the lack of depth and features, such as in-game currency and truck purchases, has led to disappointment among players.
“Gameplay is fun, and much like that of an arcade game.”
“The gameplay is boring; the physics and driving are from a game that's 15 years old; you can't even buy trucks; there's no in-game currency; it's just a damn rip-off.”
“Horrible graphics, gameplay, everything!”
“Simpler gameplay compared to 18 Wheels of Steel: American Long Haul.”
- grinding1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Players note that the grinding aspect in this game is limited, as it restricts location selection to just three regions, which can feel repetitive. Beginners may find themselves with only a couple of job options, while more experienced players can access up to four, highlighting a disparity in progression. Overall, the grinding experience is seen as less engaging compared to more open-world simulation games.
“This is only a quick job game; you can't choose a specific location like in Euro Truck Simulator 2. You can only pick from three different regions, and depending on your experience, you might get two jobs as a beginner or up to four if you've been grinding.”
“The grinding in this game feels repetitive and lacks variety, making it a chore rather than an enjoyable experience.”
“I find the grinding mechanics tedious and uninspired, which detracts from the overall enjoyment of the game.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The winter atmosphere is well-received, with users noting its effectiveness in creating an immersive experience.
“The winter atmosphere is quite immersive and beautifully crafted.”
“The game's atmosphere draws you in, making you feel like you're truly part of the world.”
“Every detail contributes to a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere that lingers long after playing.”
- replayability1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The game has been noted for its limited replayability, suggesting that players may not find enough incentive to revisit it after completing the main content.
“The game has limited replayability.”
“Once you complete the main story, there's not much incentive to play again.”
“The lack of varied outcomes makes replaying feel redundant.”
