American Truck Simulator's Illinois DLC Brings the Windy City to Life: A First Look at the Chicago Experience
Introduction: A New Chapter in American Truck Simulator
On May 14, American Truck Simulator (ATS) released its Illinois DLC, expanding the virtual trucking map into the heart of the Midwest. The highlight is undoubtedly Chicago—nicknamed the Windy City—but the DLC also offers a diverse range of roads from rural farmland to bustling industrial corridors. For those who have driven through the game’s other urban hubs like Portland or Phoenix, the question is: does Chicago live up to the reputation? Based on a recent trip from St. Louis to Chicago, the answer is a resounding yes.
A Journey from St. Louis to the Windy City
The Illinois DLC connects seamlessly with the existing Missouri and Kentucky areas, but the most iconic route is the drive northeast from St. Louis. As you leave the Gateway Arch behind, the scenery transitions from wide-open plains to suburban sprawl, then into the dense infrastructure of Chicago. This progression is handled masterfully—players can feel the city approaching through increased traffic, taller buildings on the horizon, and a shift in road signage.
The Approach to Chicago
From the south, Interstate 55 and I-90/94 (the Dan Ryan Expressway) funnel traffic directly into the Loop. The developers have recreated the famous skyline with recognizable landmarks such as the Willis Tower and the John Hancock Center. While you can’t exit the truck to feel the wind (a disclaimer: ATS doesn’t allow foot exploration), the visual fidelity is impressive. Flags flutter from buildings and poles, adding a sense of atmospheric motion—though whether this is authentic Chicago wind or clever game design, only the developers know.
Chicago’s Urban Complexity
Navigating downtown Chicago in ATS is a test of skill. Narrow lanes, frequent junctions, and elevated expressways require constant attention. The DLC includes many delivery points within the city, such as warehouses, construction sites, and industrial depots. The challenge lies not just in the volume of traffic but also in the intricate interchanges—one wrong turn can lead you into a one-way street or a dead-end loading dock.
Landmarks and Atmosphere
The team at SCS Software has captured the essence of Chicago’s architectural diversity. From the historic Wrigley Building to the modern glass towers, the city feels alive. Street-level details like elevated train tracks (the “L”), bridges over the Chicago River, and neighborhoods like the Loop and Lower Wacker Drive are faithfully represented. Even if you can’t roll down the window, the cab’s audio provides ambient city sounds—horns, train bells, and the rumble of other trucks.
What About the Wind?
As noted, confirming the “windy” part is tricky. In real life, Chicago’s nickname may have more to do with political bluster than actual gusts, but in the game, you’ll see flags whipping in the breeze and trees swaying. The developers have added visual cues that suggest a breezy environment, which enhances immersion. However, the driving physics are not drastically affected—your truck handles the same as in other cities. The effect is purely cosmetic but welcome.
Comparison with Other Cities in ATS
Driving into Chicago for the first time is as memorable as arriving in San Francisco or Los Angeles in earlier DLCs. The city’s layout is denser than the majority of ATS locations. While Los Angeles had freeways and long boulevards, Chicago offers tight downtown streets and complex interchanges that reward careful planning. The rural parts of Illinois are equally well-crafted, but the star attraction is the Windy City itself.
Conclusion: A Worthwhile Addition
The Illinois DLC adds depth to the American Truck Simulator map by introducing a major metropolitan area with unique challenges and sights. Whether you’re hauling pickups from St. Louis or freight from the industrial south, the drive into Chicago is a highlight. For players seeking variety and a test of urban driving skills, this DLC delivers. And while you can’t verify the windiness, the experience of rolling into the shadow of the Willis Tower is undeniably memorable.