American Truck Simulator: A Complete Walkthrough

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1. Starting Your Journey

Step 1: Installing and Setting Up

  • Installation: Install the game through Steam or another platform of your choice.
  • Choosing Your Truck: Upon launching the game, you’ll be prompted to choose a profile. You can create a new one or use a pre-existing one.
  • Setting Up Controls: If you have a steering wheel, pedals, or a gamepad, configure the controls to your preference. Otherwise, the default keyboard and mouse setup works well for beginners.

Step 2: Selecting Your First Job

  • Career Mode: Choose a career mode, where you’ll work your way from a lone trucker to a business owner.
  • Truck Customization: You can choose a basic truck at the start, usually provided for free. As you progress, you can upgrade to better rigs and customize them.

Step 3: Learn the Basics of Driving

  • Driving the Truck: ATS is realistic when it comes to driving. Use the following controls:
    • W, A, S, D: Accelerate, steer left, steer right, and brake.
    • Shift (or appropriate key): Change gears (if driving a manual truck).
    • Spacebar: Brake or park brake.
    • R: Use the truck horn.
  • Driving Tips:
    • Start Slow: Trucks are heavy and take time to accelerate. Be careful at intersections and when turning.
    • Signals and Lane Changes: Use your blinkers (left/right arrow keys) when changing lanes or turning.
    • Mirrors: Use in-cab mirrors and the external camera view to ensure safe maneuvers.

Step 4: Accept Your First Cargo Job

  • After selecting your job, the map will show a route with your delivery destination. Follow the GPS or use the in-game map for directions.
  • Route Planning: Pay attention to fuel stations, rest stops, and tolls along the way.

2. Managing Your Trucking Business

Step 1: Earning Money

  • As you complete jobs, you’ll earn money based on the distance, difficulty, and condition of the cargo.
  • Job Types: There are various types of cargo such as hazardous materials, heavy loads, or fragile goods.
  • Speeding & Penalties: Avoid speeding tickets or damage penalties by driving carefully.

Step 2: Leveling Up Your Driver

  • Experience Points (XP): Every successful job completed earns you XP. As you level up, you’ll unlock better skills and upgrades for your truck.
  • Skills: Each level-up gives you skill points, which can be used for:
    • Long Distance: Increases your maximum job range.
    • High Value Cargo: Allows you to haul more lucrative shipments.
    • Fragile Cargo: Reduces the risk of damage to fragile items.
    • Exploration: Unlocks more locations on the map.

Step 3: Purchasing New Trucks and Upgrades

  • Once you’ve earned enough money, you can buy a new truck or upgrade your current one.
    • Visit the dealership to select a new truck.
    • Customize your truck with performance upgrades like engines, wheels, and transmissions.
    • Don’t forget to buy a garage to expand your business, hire drivers, and manage the fleet.

Step 4: Managing Your Fleet

  • As your business grows, you can hire drivers to take on jobs for you. You’ll manage their trucks, wages, and schedules.
  • Hiring Drivers: Assign skilled drivers to operate your trucks and generate passive income.

3. Advanced Tips & Strategies

Step 1: Mastering the Road

  • Driving in Different Conditions: You’ll face varied weather conditions, including rain, snow, and fog. Slow down when visibility is low.
  • Night Driving: The roads can be quite dark at night. Use your headlights effectively and be cautious.
  • Traffic Rules: Obey traffic signs, speed limits, and signals to avoid fines. Some areas may have stricter regulations (e.g., weight limits, restricted routes).

Step 2: Freight and Cargo Handling

  • Loading and Unloading Cargo: Some jobs require you to park the truck carefully to unload cargo. Use a reverse camera or external view to help you park precisely.
  • Time Management: Many jobs have strict deadlines. Plan your routes carefully and avoid getting stuck in traffic.

Step 3: Use of Mods

  • Mods: The ATS community creates mods that you can install to enhance your gameplay experience. Mods can include new trucks, maps, cargo, and skins. Visit community sites or the Steam Workshop to find popular mods.

Step 4: Exploring the Map

  • Map Expansion: The game expands over time with updates and downloadable content (DLC). You can explore different states and even drive across entire regions like the West Coast, Midwest, or even new cities like Texas and Washington.
  • Hidden Discoveries: Keep an eye out for landmarks and hidden areas. Some locations unlock special cargo or achievements.

4. Endgame and Business Growth

Step 1: Expanding Your Business

  • Once you have a few trucks and drivers, your goal should be to expand and manage a profitable fleet.
  • Company Management: Keep track of your drivers' performance, and ensure their trucks are well-maintained.
  • Upgrading the Garage: Expand your garage to accommodate more trucks and drivers. Managing your fleet efficiently is key to growing your empire.

Step 2: Taking on the Long Hauls

  • As you reach higher levels, you’ll be tasked with more challenging and longer-haul jobs. These jobs pay better, but require more careful management and time investment.

Step 3: Completing Achievements

  • ATS offers a wide range of achievements and milestones. Completing them will unlock special rewards, and some achievements might also grant you cosmetic items or additional skills.

5. Key Tips for Success

  • Stay Safe: Don’t rush; your reputation and fines depend on safe driving.
  • Keep an Eye on Fuel: Don’t let your truck run out of fuel, and always plan your route to include fuel stations.
  • Watch Your Fatigue: Your driver can get tired. Stop to rest at designated rest stops to avoid penalties.
  • Balance Risk and Reward: Heavy or hazardous cargo pays more, but it’s more difficult to transport without damage. Decide which jobs suit your level of experience.

Conclusion

American Truck Simulator is all about patience, strategy, and growth. As a player, you’ll get to experience the beauty of the American landscape while managing the logistics of a growing trucking empire. By following the steps above, you can create a successful business and become a true road legend in the world of American Truck Simulator. Enjoy the journey, and remember to drive safely!