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Truck Driver – Heading North DLC is the much-anticipated add-on to SOEDESCO’s popular title Truck Driver. This bolt-on content enhances your experience whilst retaining much of the original charm. I covered it recently and scored it 7.5 out of 10. Consequently, I was excited about getting my teeth into the new content.
Developed and published by SOEDESCO, this is a driving simulation title. Moreover, there are plenty of custom options and a vast open world to explore. However, if you’ve played the original, none of this will be a surprise. Yet, if you are new to the franchise, this new map adds over 30 jobs and a stunning landscape to enjoy. What’s more, there are some new goods to haul and plenty of speed cameras to avoid.
Truck Driver – Heading North DLC has no story.
Unlike Truck Driver, Truck Driver – Heading North DLC has no story. Instead, you are instructed to take the ferry to explore a new location. Here, you’ll help the locals whilst impressing your Uncle Karl. Additionally, you’ll earn plenty of cash to pimp out your ride or buy a whole new vehicle. Whatever you wish to do, there is no pressure whatsoever. Accordingly, as long as you are rested and have fuel, you can drive to your heart’s content.
The new action takes place in the Nordic-inspired land of Mangefjell. This cold and isolated island has some interesting characters and stunning scenery. Furthermore, it is noticeably bigger than the original map. On top of this, it is more sparse and traversing it takes much longer. Therefore, you must keep on top of your stamina and fuel if you wish to succeed.
A gentle simulation title.
Usually, the simulation genre is complicated and overbearing. Thankfully, Truck Driver – Heading North DLC is different. There is nothing else to worry about besides the basic character and vehicle stats. Alongside fuel and stamina, you’ll focus on damage and the speed of your truck. Other than this, there is little else to worry you. However, if you damage your vehicle, it impacts the steering, and this is a massive problem. Subsequently, you’ll want to drive safely or repair any defects ASAP.
Most of the missions comprise a basic gameplay loop. You’ll be requested to collect a trailer and deliver it to a set location. Alternatively, you may have to move several loads before you get paid. If you are successful, you’ll earn cash and XP. The experience points are used to increase bonuses or reduce bills. Furthermore, you can unlock driver-related skills to make money and unlock new trucks and equipment.
A massive world to explore.
The delivery element makes up the core of the gameplay. However, you are free to explore as you wish. This was one of my favourite parts of the game. Thanks to the relaxed approach, you don’t get chased by police and any misdemeanours are dealt with immediately. As such, the immersive nature of the action isn’t ruined.
Mangefjell is a stark and barren land that is wonderful to drive across. There’s lots to see and do with hidden areas and plenty of people to help out. As long as you don’t jump red lights, and you keep within the speed limits, you’ll have an amazing time without being fined unnecessarily.
Customising your vehicle.
Truck Driver impressed me with its custom options. Thankfully, Truck Driver – Heading North DLC retains all your unlocked goods while allowing you to buy more. Whether you change the livery or add additional parts, it’s up to you. You can select from purely cosmetic items or improve the attributes of each vehicle. Whatever you decide, you must remember that you don’t have unlimited funds.
One element I particularly enjoyed was the unlocking of new items. By driving a specific vehicle over a set distance, you earn cash and unlock new parts. This was great, as it kept you working with each truck to ensure they were fully upgraded. Alongside this, you are rewarded for driving safely and completing certain missions. Consequently, there are plenty of ways to improve your vehicles.
Truck Driver – Heading North DLC lacks polish.
Like the original, Truck Driver – Heading North DLC lacks polish. Unfortunately, there are some texture issues and the render distance isn’t great. Yet, it didn’t impact the gameplay, and the animation was smooth. Furthermore, I adored the rain effect and the variety of viewpoints at your disposal. Whether you want a view of the steering wheel or outside the vehicle, the choice is yours.
The audio made me smile. The heart-warming soundtrack is relaxed and folksy. Furthermore, the excellent sound effects add to the realism. You’ll wince as you hit a barrier, or swerve as your wheels touch the hard shoulder. My only disappointment was the lack of acting. The action would have been improved if the key characters were voiced.
Excellent controls but a tedious UI.
SOEDESCO has incorporated a brilliant shortcut system. Accordingly, you can activate your indicators, switch off the engine, or operate cruise control. However, the UI is tedious. If you wish to use the windscreen wipers or switch on the lights, it is unnecessarily clumsy. Luckily, though, you are free to map the controls as you wish. As such, many of these problems can be overcome.
Thanks to the custom options and the 30+ new jobs on offer, this has plenty of longevity. However, the gameplay can be repetitive if you are not a keen trucking enthusiast. Luckily, though, the vast world and hidden areas prevent the action from becoming monotonous.
Truck Driver – Heading North DLC is a great addition.
I loved the original, so this was an easy sell for me. Truck Driver – Heading North DLC adds some quality missions and a large and interesting map. Moreover, it retains its quality gameplay and excellent audio. Accordingly, I loved it and I recommend that you buy it here! Enhance your driving reputation and help the residents of Mangefjell.
