Bus Driver Simulator 2018 Free Download [2023]

 Bus Driver Simulator 2018 Introduction:

Bus Simulator 18, also known as Bus Simulator on consoles, is a video game that falls under the simulation genre. It was developed by Stillalive Studios and published by Astragon Entertainment. This game is available for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One platforms and is powered by the impressive Unreal Engine 4. It was officially released worldwide on June 13, 2018, and is the fifth installment in the Bus Simulator series, directly succeeding Bus Simulator 16. In 2021, a sequel titled Bus Simulator 21 was launched.

The core gameplay of Bus Simulator 18 revolves around simulating the experience of being a bus driver in a virtual world. Players have the opportunity to explore and navigate a fictional city known as Seaside Valley. This city is notably expansive, consisting of twelve distinct districts, which is a substantial increase in size compared to its predecessor, Bus Simulator 16. The larger map allows for a more diverse and engaging gameplay experience.

Gameplay:

One of the game's key features is the wide selection of buses that players can operate. Bus Simulator 18 boasts eight officially licensed vehicles from four different bus manufacturers: Iveco, MAN, Mercedes-Benz, and Setra. These buses span various types, from conventional low-floor buses to articulated buses, adding depth and variety to the gameplay.

In terms of gameplay mechanics, Bus Simulator 18 incorporates a procedural generation system. This means that players are required to complete various missions and objectives to unlock new districts within Seaside Valley. This approach keeps the gameplay fresh and challenging as players work towards expanding their routes and exploring different areas of the city.

Beyond driving buses, players also engage in bus management tasks. This aspect of the game allows players to create and manage their own bus routes, adding a strategic layer to the experience. Additionally, players can buy, sell, and upgrade buses to enhance their transportation business.

One notable improvement in Bus Simulator 18 is its graphics quality. In contrast to its predecessor, Bus Simulator 16, which was built using the Unity engine, Bus Simulator 18 utilizes Unreal Engine 4. This transition results in considerably improved graphics, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the game.

Bus Simulator 18 was initially released for Microsoft Windows in June 2018. Notably, it introduced modding and multiplayer modes for the first time in the Bus Simulator series, allowing players to customize and extend their gaming experience. Subsequently, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One versions were released in August 2019 under the title "Bus Simulator." Additionally, a map expansion downloadable content was made available to players in May 2019, further enriching the game world.

Final Words:

The critical reception of Bus Simulator 18 was mixed. Chris Jarrard of Shacknews gave it a rating of 6 out of 10, expressing concerns about the game's lack of content, multiplayer issues, and a somewhat unengaging campaign. Chris O'Connor of Impulse Gamer, on the other hand, rated the game 4 out of 5, highlighting its relaxing gameplay but noting that the depth of content could have been more substantial. Alec Meer of Rock, Paper, Shotgun praised the game's immersive atmosphere, even going as far as to express newfound respect for real-life bus drivers. Finally, Andy Kelly of PC Gamer compared Bus Simulator 18 to Euro Truck Simulator 2 by SCS Software, acknowledging that it may not reach the same level of quality as the truck simulator but praising its interactive elements, which the Truck Simulator franchise lacks.