Truck Simulator event invites players to deliver COVID-19 vaccines

Big rig drivers in either Euro Truck Simulator 2 or American Truck Simulator are being invited to carry virtual deliveries of COVID-19 vaccines, although even this kind of thing can’t go forward without some people complaining that it’s a political statement.

SCS Software’s “Hauling Hope” event is pretty straightforward: Make seven or more undamaged deliveries of the COVID-19 Vaccine Cargo. The catch: The cargo in question has zero damage tolerance, so drivers need a Fragile Cargo skill of level 1 or better. The prize: an achievement, plus a Hope Trucker air freshener for your cab.

Image: SCS Software

OK, pretty timely gesture, statement of solidarity with the long-haulers who have been keeping us going the past year, right? Well, not exactly. Some fight-pickers in the comments under SCS Software’s announcement blog and Facebook post told the studio to stick to truckin’, and complained that this event was an unwelcome reminder of the real world.

Others replied that such sentiments were 10-1 (received poorly) and advised complainers to 10-7 (go out of service). “Hauling Hope is an Event, not a political statement,” said one trucker. “Covid sucks but this event does not. Just enjoy it. Thank you, SCS.”

“Real life truckers are essential workers in delivering supplies and food,” said another. “I’m so proud to at least be a virtual trucker, especially in events this one. […] #TheBestCommunityEver is proud of SCS bringing events like this to us.”

SCS community managers still had to ask folks to be civil. “No matter if you stand for vaccines or against them, these truckers still have to work really hard and we wanted to give them their well-deserved 15 minutes of fame,” the developers said. “But if you do not like this event, you do not need to participate in it. It is not mandatory, it’s totally up to every single one of you.”

Anyway, the Hauling Hope event runs until Sunday, Feb. 7 at 6:59 p.m. EST.