So, you’ve taken the plunge into the world of American Truck Simulator? Welcome to the open road, my friend! If you’re just starting out, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed, but fear not.
We’ve compiled this handy list of top tips for beginners to help you find your footing in this realistic and immersive game. Buckle up, and let’s dive right in!
1. Start with the Basics
Before hitting the highway, familiarize yourself with the game’s controls and mechanics. Get comfy with the in-game menu, learn the traffic rules, and understand the job market. Starting with the tutorial is always a smart move. It’ll give you a solid foundation to build upon as you become a seasoned trucker.
Also make sure to change your settings to your personal preference. Check out the full American Truck Simulator Guide for more information.
2. Practice Backing as Much as Possible
Backing up a massive 18-wheeler isn’t a walk in the park, but practice makes perfect! Spend some time mastering this essential skill to avoid mishaps and navigate tight spots like a pro.
You can practice by going to truck stops and customers and practice backing. Make sure you don’t have parking assist on. That’s more time to practice backing.
3. Plan Your Route
Always plan your route before hitting the road. Use the in-game map and GPS to plot the most efficient path to your destination, factoring in fuel stops and rest breaks along the way. A well-planned route can save you time and money in the long run.
Plan to drive about 600 miles in the day before needing to take a break and find a place to park where you can sleep. You can find those areas on the map with the bed. Find one, get into a spot and the dialogue to sleep should pop up.
4. Use a Controller
While keyboard and mouse are fine, using a controller or a steering wheel setup can significantly enhance your driving experience. These peripherals offer more precise control, making it easier to maneuver your rig and immerse yourself in the game.
$15 – $25 PS4 Controller on Amazon
5. Start with Shorter Runs
As a newbie, it’s wise to start with shorter runs to gain experience and confidence. Completing these jobs will earn you money and skill points, paving the way for more lucrative, long-haul assignments later on.
6. Use Skill Points Wisely
When you level up, you’ll earn skill points to allocate across various proficiencies. Be strategic in your choices, focusing on skills that align with your preferred playstyle and goals. For example, invest in fuel efficiency if you want to save on gas costs or long-distance driving for those epic cross-country hauls.
I believe it is best to start with about 2 or 3 Long distance skill points then at least one of each other skill. That will allow you to do most runs and you will find what you like to do and upgrade that skill faster.
7. Discover More Cities
Exploring new cities isn’t just a fun way to pass the time; it’s also beneficial to your trucking career. The more cities you visit, the more job opportunities you’ll unlock, so hit the road and expand your horizons! Every city you unlock can unlock a lot of new freight to haul.
8. Use the Free Roam Camera
American Truck Simulator’s free roam camera is a nifty tool that allows you to scope out your surroundings and get a better perspective on tricky situations. Use it to your advantage when you’re parking, navigating tight spaces, or just soaking in the scenery.
Guide on how to setup the free roam camera (Soon).
9. Buy a Truck and Trailer ASAP
Owning your own rig is a game-changer. It gives you the freedom to take on jobs without renting a truck, maximizing your profits. Save up and invest in a truck and trailer as soon as you can, then customize your ride to make it truly your own.
10. Hire Other Drivers
When you’re ready to grow your trucking empire, hire other drivers to work for you. They’ll take on jobs and generate passive income, boosting your bottom line and allowing you to focus on the tasks you enjoy most. The image below is supposed to show all of the drivers you can recruit, but I went on a hiring spree after Texas’ release and hired every driver. It’s been months and there are still no drivers to hire.
Bonus: Have Fun!
Last but certainly not least, have fun! American Truck Simulator is a game, after all, so enjoy the journey, take in the sights, and relish the satisfaction of mastering the open road.
Now that you know the Top 10 Tips for Beginners in American Truck Simulator, you’re well on your way to becoming a successful and skilled trucker.
Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep at it, explore new places, and enjoy the journey.
As you gain experience, you’ll find your own rhythm and playstyle that works best for you.
So, fire up that engine, hit the road, and most importantly, have a blast exploring the vast and beautiful landscapes of American Truck Simulator. Happy trucking!