18 Wheels of Steel Convoy Review

18 Wheels of Steel: Convoy lacks the different modes of play that others in the series have, but makes up for it in the large amount of vehicles and upgrades available to unlock. This game uses amazing attention to detail to create the most lifelike truck driving experience imaginable. You will be picking up and dropping off loads, refueling and even stopping to weigh your truck(unless you took the extra weight). Watch out for the police along the way, because if they catch you doing something wrong they'll slap you with some hefty fines.

A Variety of Realistic Elements (Including International Customs)

Using a unique blend of driving and strategy, 18 Wheels of Steel has you managing your own trucking company as well as being the driver. In this version of the game only one mode of play exists, the free play mode. In free play you are the driver of your own truck. With the assistance of your manager you will be hiring new drivers and picking up loads to drive all over the country and even to Canada and Mexico. When you go into foreign countries you must pass through customs, just like in real life.

Upgrading your truck is also an option. You can buy bigger engines, a better transmissions, stronger brakes, and even paint the exterior of the truck.

Detailed Scenery (Except for No Road Signs)

Most of the game will be spent on the road delivering goods. That being the case, the well done graphics add a bit of realism to the game. Every detail is carefully crafted down to the occasional critter running across the road in front of your truck. The highways are all correctly named and placed , but lack street signs so navigation can be difficult. The cab view of the truck shows the dash, gauges, steering wheel and even your rear view mirrors. The level of detail achieved in this game is astounding.

We Hope You Like the Open Road

A few minor drawbacks exist in this game, but if you are prepared for them it won't be a big deal. First, there is the issue of how long it takes to get around. Even some of the shortest city-to-city distances can take upwards of 15 minutes. A cross country haul can set you back more than an hour. The trucks move at relatively slow speeds so long hauls can get boring. The second drawback is getting stuck. If you manage to get your truck stuck, there is no way to get it unstuck. This means you have to revert back to your last save point and start over again. Saving frequently will reduce the amount of tasks you will have to repeat.

Conclusion - All the Excitement (and lack of) Experienced By Real Truckers

18 Wheels of Steel lets you experience what it's like to be a long haul truck driver without ever leaving your couch. Picking the profitable loads and keeping everything nice and legal are just a few of the challenges you will face. Don't forget to invest in some upgrades so you can get your load to its destination as fast as possible. When you sit down to play just be prepared to invest some time. This game is a great way to kill some time and see some of the virtual countryside.