Euro Truck Simulator 2

Game images by RAWG

Euro Truck Simulator 2

SCS Software

Windows, macOS, Linuxpremium (one-time purchase) + map and truck DLC

Health Score

DECENT

Official Website Watch Gameplay

About This Game

Super Review

Euro Truck Simulator 2 offers a unique, calming driving experience focused on patience and planning, where players build a virtual trucking empire. While the open-ended nature and detailed simulation can be engaging, parents should be aware of potential exposure to third-party content through mods and online interactions, and the presence of ongoing DLC purchases.

Super Review

Parent verdict

This driving simulator is a qualified fit for families with players who appreciate a slow, methodical pace and a business management layer. With a 'Decent' health score of 51, it works best with clear family guidelines around online features and additional purchases. It can foster valuable skills like route planning and responsibility, but its long hauls and community content require parental oversight for younger players.

What players actually do

Players meticulously drive large trucks across European highways, practicing concentration and adherence to traffic laws while managing fuel and fatigue.
Players plan delivery routes, considering mileage, time limits, and cargo fragility, which exercises problem-solving and basic logistics.
Players build and manage a trucking company by earning money from deliveries to purchase new trucks, hire drivers, and expand garages, introducing simple business concepts.

Where it shines

The game provides a genuinely calm and meditative experience, allowing players to relax while engaging in a focused, low-stress activity.
It subtly teaches practical skills such as map reading, basic navigation, and the financial responsibilities of running a small business, offering a unique educational angle.

Parent watch-outs

The game supports extensive modding and online 'convoy' sessions, which can expose players to unmoderated third-party content and chat outside of the game's direct control.
The core experience involves very long, repetitive drives that may lead to boredom or difficulty maintaining focus for some players, particularly younger ones.
The business model includes a premium base game with numerous map and truck DLCs, presenting ongoing opportunities for in-game purchases that can add up over time.

Family rules worth setting

Set clear rules regarding participation in online convoy mode and prohibit voice or text chat with unknown players.
Discuss and agree on any additional DLC purchases in advance, helping players understand the value and cost of game expansions.
Implement a time limit for play sessions to encourage breaks and prevent extended, solitary driving marathons.

Talk about this

Discuss the financial decisions in the game: how to prioritize truck upgrades versus garage expansion, and the concept of return on investment.
Talk about safe online interactions and the importance of only engaging with trusted friends, explaining why unmoderated chats can be risky.
Explore the geography of Europe as players drive through different countries, connecting the game to real-world locations and cultures.

Play style

Euro Truck Simulator 2 is a single-player focused experience with an optional online convoy mode. Sessions can range from quick short-haul deliveries to multi-hour epic journeys, allowing for flexible play. The difficulty is low, focusing more on patience and precision than reflexes or challenge. Younger players may need help with initial game mechanics, route planning, or managing business aspects, and might find long hauls tedious.

Score Breakdown

Positive Aspects

Educational Value

3/5

Creativity

2/5

Pro-Social

1/5

Risk Factors

Addictive Monetization

2/5

Time Pressure / FOMO

3/5

Social Risk

1/5

Content Intensity

0/5

Why this rating

Educational Value

3/5

The game scores a 3 for Educational Value due to its unique ability to teach practical skills. Players engage in route planning, develop map-reading abilities, and learn basic business management concepts by running a virtual trucking company.

Addictive Monetization

2/5

Addictive Monetization receives a score of 2 because the game is a premium purchase with a clear model of optional DLC. While there are numerous expansions available, they are transparent add-ons and not designed to compel excessive spending through manipulative tactics or random rewards.

Time Pressure / FOMO

3/5

Time Pressure / FOMO is rated 3 because the game lacks urgent deadlines or competitive elements that pressure players to constantly engage. Players set their own pace for deliveries and company expansion, allowing for a relaxed, self-directed play experience without fear of missing out on limited-time content.

Negatives

•Hauls can be long and repetitive
•mod support and online sessions may expose kids to third-party content or chat.

Positives

•Calming, realistic driving and route planning
•can teach patience, map reading and basic business concepts.

Gameplay Videos

Logs Delivery | Euro Truck Simulator 2 | Logitech g29 gameplay

Xpertgamingtech

1 of 3

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Official Ratings

E (Everyone)

ESRB

Mild LanguageIn-Game Purchases (DLC)

Users Interact (online convoys)

PEGI 3

PEGI

No specific contentDriving Simulation

Age Fit

ℹ️Ages 3-5

Not suitable for direct play; too complex for this age, though watching an adult play might offer some passive calming.

ℹ️Ages 6-8

A qualified fit with active adult guidance for simple routes; not recommended for independent play due to complexity and online risks.

ℹ️Ages 9-12

Best with clear parental supervision for mod usage and online interactions. Good for players who enjoy vehicles and calm simulation, with encouraged breaks.

ℹ️Ages 13-15

A solid option for patient players interested in simulation and light business management; online features should be discussed and managed.

ℹ️Ages 16-18

An excellent low-stress game for older teens who appreciate immersive simulation, especially if combined with podcasts or music during long drives.