Software Review: 18 Wheels of Steel Haulin'

Looking for a realistic semi-truck simulation? Valusoft has come up with affordable and enjoyable software to meet your virtual diesel burning desires! 18 Wheels Of Steel Haulin', is one of the more recent games in the 18 Wheels Of Steel truck simulation series produced by SCS Software and marketed through Valusoft. The game is available at many retail chains as well as a download option from their web site. This simulation as opposed to prior versions focuses on the driving of the trucks, as well as running a business. The asking price of the software is $20, although I purchased it for $10 at a local Staples store.

The system requirements of the software are very flexible considering the current standards for laptops and desktops. 256MB ram is required, however my desktop has 512MB and it runs it just fine. I used it on another system that only met the basic requirements with less than optimal results. The platform is written for Open GL video cards, which can be an issue with some older computers. Initially, the software didn't run on my desktop because the video card could not render the images. After updating the drivers for the card, it ran without any issues. However, with most newer (2005 and up) computers, I wouldn't foresee any problems with hardware.

The overall platform of the game is very interesting. You start out with a truck, some money and a location. The object is to pick a company and haul a cargo to a destination. The action does not stop there! There are several trucks that you can purchase new or used, as well as different variations of trailers. As the owner of the company, you can purchase as many trucks and trailers as you wish. Loans are also an option to acquire equipment. After a few deliveries, you can hire drivers and make contracts with companies you have delivered for. Your drivers will make money for you, but you have to keep up with your truck fleet to keep them going as well as drive yourself.

Realism in this software is actually fairly good. Many of the trucks in the game are very close replicas of makes such as Peterbilt, Kenworth, Western Star, Ford, and International. The game comes with conventional model trucks as well as a few variations of the cab over engine types. The trailers are overall very good replicas of actual ones. The driver often has to stop for rest and can sleep in the truck or a hotel. If you are caught speeding, you will be stopped and pay a hefty fine. Passing a weigh station or running overweight will also cost you big. The payments for the cargos and distances traveled are prototypical of the real world. If you hire drivers, they don't come cheap! Drivers must be paid a salary depending on their experience and quality rating.

What makes this simulation accurate and fun is the number of options available. The map covers the continental United States as well as Canada, which can make for short or long trips. There are many different companies and cargos. Using your own trailer will get a bigger payment for the job, but it's not required. There is no limit to the number of trucks and trailers you can acquire or sell at anytime. You can run on your own or hire drivers and build your company. You can leave your stuff at your base or purchase a garage in any city in the game. The combinations of things you can do in this simulation ensure that you probably won't get bored with it!

Overall I have been very happy with this software. I have had it for a little over a year and I still enjoy using it from time to time. Of all the games in the 18 Wheels Of Steel series, I'd say this one is my favorite. The graphics are great, the platform is enjoyable, and I haven't been bored with it. I would have to say that the software is well worth the money. You can also try it before you buy it with the demo on the Vausoft web site. For a true to life truck simulation, 18 Wheel Of Steel Haulin' really hits the mark!