Euro Truck Simulator

About

Euro Truck Simulator is a single player racing game. It was developed by SCS Software and was released on March 8, 2013. It received positive reviews from players.

"Euro Truck Simulator" is a vehicle simulation game that allows players to drive trucks across a European map, completing delivery missions while managing their own trucking company. Players can customize their trucks and expand their business by hiring drivers and purchasing new vehicles. The game features realistic driving physics and a variety of truck models for immersive and challenging gameplay.

Genres & Tags

Play Modes

Single-Player

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81%

Audience ScoreBased on 2,260 reviews

graphics69 positive mentions

grinding13 negative mentions

The game offers a nostalgic experience for fans of the trucking simulator genre, providing a simple and relaxing gameplay loop.
It runs well on low-end PCs, making it accessible for players with older hardware.
The ability to listen to your own music while driving adds to the immersive experience.

The graphics and controls feel outdated and clunky compared to modern standards, making gameplay frustrating at times.
The game lacks many features found in its sequel, Euro Truck Simulator 2, such as GPS navigation and a more detailed map.
Repetitive gameplay can lead to boredom, as the core mechanics revolve around driving from point A to point B without much variation.

graphics
194 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
36%
43%
21%
The graphics of the game, released in 2008, are widely regarded as outdated, with many users noting that they appear poor by modern standards. However, some players appreciate the nostalgic charm and decent visuals for their time, suggesting that while the graphics may not impress today, they were acceptable and even striking during the game's initial release. Overall, the consensus is that while the graphics are not a strong point, they do not detract significantly from the gameplay experience, especially for those who enjoy older titles.
- “Honestly, some of the graphics are better than today's games, and that's saying a lot for a game that is almost two decades old.”
- “The graphics make you feel as if you are really sat in that cabin, watching the roads go by.”
- “The graphics are good for its time and they still kind of hold up.”
- “The graphics are dated, the gameplay loop gets repetitive faster than ETS2, and there are not many landmarks in the cities, so it felt more like a chore than fun after going through the same city multiple times.”
- “The graphics are really old, and this game just screams nostalgia. However, it's not fair sometimes; the SOS doesn't do anything, so you're just going to waste your money if you're stuck somewhere.”
- “The graphics are poor, the whole experience is sad, and the maps are unrealistic and not very enthralling.”
gameplay
75 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
37%
56%
7%
The gameplay of this 2008 truck simulator is characterized by its simplicity and repetitiveness, with limited areas to explore and a lack of engaging mechanics compared to its successor, Euro Truck Simulator 2. While some players appreciate the relaxing nature and decent driving mechanics, many criticize the outdated graphics, basic controls, and minimal challenge, leading to a feeling of monotony over time. Overall, it serves as a basic introduction to the genre but lacks the depth and variety found in more modern simulation games.
- “The gameplay is smooth and immersive.”
- “Realistic graphics, detailed gameplay mechanics, and an expansive game world make it an excellent choice for truck enthusiasts and simulation lovers.”
- “Even without the keen shininess, RPG mechanics, and overall complexity of Euro Truck Simulator 2, this is still a very solid game that contains the great core elements and gameplay that will keep you trucking for hours on end.”
- “The graphics are dated, the gameplay loop gets repetitive faster than ETS2, and there are not many landmarks in the cities, so it felt more like a chore than fun after going through the same city multiple times.”
- “The gameplay is literally pressing W (or C, once you know you don't even have to press any key to accelerate) and A and D to drive around the low polygon map.”
- “A much simpler game than its famous sequel, there are far fewer roads to drive on, the map itself feels much smaller, truck selection is far more limited, and many gameplay features were added in ETS2.”
music
55 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
16%
79%
5%
The music aspect of the game is a mixed bag; while players appreciate the ability to import their own music for a personalized driving experience, many express frustration over the lack of in-game radio stations and the requirement to convert music files to .ogg format. The main menu music is often noted as enjoyable, but overall, the game is best played with external music or podcasts to enhance the relaxing driving experience.
- “I love this game; it brings me nostalgia when I was young playing this game. The soundtrack is amazing.”
- “It’s a relaxing and methodical little driving sim, seemingly designed expressly to be played on the backburner whilst listening to some nice music or your favorite podcast.”
- “The experience is way better if you use your own music; you can drive around listening to Rick Astley, for example.”
- “Music is inexistent; still no radio stations available after 4 hours of playtime, so I had to open an external music player to listen to while driving.”
- “This is a driving simulator that doesn't have music?”
- “When you play it, put on some music because otherwise it is just driving around with not much happening on the road.”
story
54 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
11%
82%
7%
The reviews indicate that the game lacks a substantial story, with many players noting that missions primarily revolve around simple cargo delivery without any narrative depth. While some appreciate the relaxing nature of the gameplay, the absence of a compelling storyline leads to a perception of dullness and repetitiveness. Overall, the game is seen as a basic driving simulator rather than a story-driven experience.
- “Each delivery wasn’t just cargo; it was a story, a challenge, a step closer to mastering the road.”
- “I have 4 hours on this amazing narrative story-driven game and would recommend this to anybody who is bored and wants to drive around the Minecraft-looking version of Europe.”
- “Well now you can in 'Euro Truck Simulator!' This game has redefined the truck simulator genre with its amazing story and beautiful landscapes.”
- “This game lacks everything I want in a video game: it lacks story, lacks gameplay, lacks variety.”
- “Unfortunately, the game doesn't really have any story dynamic.”
- “The lack of story allows the game to get very dull very quickly.”
optimization
21 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
38%
48%
14%
The game's optimization is generally acceptable, particularly for low-performance computers, allowing it to run smoothly even on older hardware. However, players have noted significant frame rate issues and poor control optimization, especially when compared to newer titles like Euro Truck Simulator 2, which offers better performance and support. While it may feel outdated, it remains a viable option for those seeking a budget-friendly simulator experience.
- “This game is highly recommended because of its value for money, it's extremely similar to the sequel, and it can run on low-performance computers.”
- “Scs software's own graphics engine is greatly optimized and can make ETS run on potato computers (I first played with an Athlon II 260 CPU).”
- “Graphics-wise, it runs smoothly and perfectly on my early 2011 15-inch MacBook Pro.”
- “Control is very poorly optimized.”
- “Optimization is not the best, but it's ok.”
- “If you have a computer with low performance, I recommend this game, but if you have a computer with high performance, I recommend the second version; Euro Truck Simulator 2 is much better.”
grinding
14 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
7%
93%
The reviews highlight that the game features significant grinding, often described as tedious and repetitive, with players feeling that it can become frustrating over time. While some enjoy the grinding aspect, finding it relaxing, many others express that it detracts from the overall enjoyment, leading to a sense of monotony and a lack of meaningful progress. Overall, the grinding experience is polarizing, appealing to some while alienating others.
- “You'll need a second life for grinding.”
- “This game is grinding my gears.”
- “Wanted to complete the game before moving to ETS2, but it’s so tedious doing literally the same thing over and over that I gave up.”
stability
10 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
30%
70%
Overall, the game's stability is generally positive, with most users reporting minimal glitches and bugs, making it a solid choice for a budget simulator. However, some players noted specific issues, such as buggy textures and lag, particularly in certain scenarios. While multiplayer options are limited and outdated, the game remains enjoyable and runs well on mid-range PCs.
- “This is way different from ETS2 and ATS, still very fun, looks good for being old, and runs great on mid-range PCs.”
- “Anything is good; no glitches, no bugs, so yes, very good game. 5 euros on Steam, so I say good.”
- “Definitely some issues, but overall a bug-free simulator it seems, and for sure a good and cheap way to start getting into a truck simulator.”
- “You can't play multiplayer, but there was a mod that required you to download a server within the mod to play with your friends. However, it was really buggy and outdated, and you won't be able to find it nowadays no matter what you do; it's completely under the rug now.”
- “But it is still laggy and buggy, and honestly, pretty boring due to the low game mechanics.”
- “Very buggy though, but in any case, it's awesome at simulating; however, version 2 is better.”
humor
10 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The humor in the game is described as both amusing and quirky, with players finding joy in the absurdities of driving mechanics and the exaggerated differences between in-game locations and their real-life counterparts. Many reviewers appreciate the lighthearted nature of the gameplay, noting that it can be unexpectedly funny despite its simplicity and occasional frustrations. Overall, the humor is seen as a strong point, contributing to an enjoyable gaming experience.
- “This game made me laugh.”
- “Aside from that, pretty funny and well made, good mechanics and graphics.”
- “+ hilarious and surprisingly not frustrating, even though I worry if a lot of the motorists have eyesight problems.”
atmosphere
8 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
25%
37%
38%
The atmosphere in Euro Truck Simulator is characterized by its immersive European settings, complete with unique road signs and traffic laws that enhance the trucking experience. Players appreciate the meditative quality of the gameplay, supported by a well-crafted soundtrack and sound effects, which contribute to a cozy and engaging environment. Overall, the game prioritizes atmosphere and mechanics over action, making it a relaxing simulator experience.
- “Euro Truck Simulator is obviously about having a trucking career in the EU - Spain, France, Italy, etc. So that means the sights and atmosphere will be different than, say, America. Road signs, traffic lights, and laws are unique to the country you are in.”
- “The soundtrack and sound effects are also well done, adding to the overall atmosphere.”
- “But hey, I like the music and that it gives the experience of being a truck driver and the atmosphere in the game, even if Europe in the game is not that accurate.”
- “I like sim stuff, so I know how to value that meditative atmosphere where you need to concentrate on the task and just go along the designated route.”
- “This is a game mostly for atmosphere and mechanics and less about action; this is a simulator.”
replayability
3 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
33%
67%
The game offers significant replayability through various routes, job types, and truck customization options, allowing players to invest hundreds of hours. However, the lack of mod support, particularly workshop integration, is seen as a drawback that could limit its longevity compared to similar titles. Adding mod support could greatly enhance the game's replay value.
- “This game has almost infinite replayability and it is perfect for sinking hundreds of hours into.”
- “And then it comes to the deal breaker for me: as far as I'm aware, there is no mod support. Don't quote me on that; I'm sure if I did some research and a quick Google search, there are probably mods, but no workshop support. Again, I know this game was released way before Steam Workshop. The replayability of mods in games like ETS2 and ATS is essential to keeping these games alive. I have no doubt that if workshop support was added, it would breathe a whole new life into this game!”
- “The game also has a lot of replay value, as you can explore different routes, take on different jobs, and customize your truck to your liking.”
emotional
1 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
300%
Players express that the game evokes strong emotions, particularly nostalgia, reminiscent of classic simulator games, leading to moments of genuine tears.
- “Made me cry from the nostalgia of old simulator games.”
- “The story touched my heart and left a lasting impact.”
- “I felt a deep connection with the characters, their struggles resonated with my own experiences.”
monetization
1 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
300%
The monetization strategy is generally well-received, with players finding it enjoyable and not overly aggressive in terms of cash grabbing; however, they recommend purchasing the game during sales for the best value.
- “It's enjoyable, but I suggest buying it on sale so you can have maximum fun without feeling the pressure of cash grabbing.”
- “The monetization model feels overly aggressive, making it hard to enjoy the game without spending extra money.”
- “I appreciate the game, but the constant push for in-game purchases detracts from the overall experience.”

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4h Median play time

9h Average play time

4-16h Spent by most gamers

*Based on 8 analyzed playthroughs

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