Definitely start in casual mode before attempting hardcore. You do not need to be an off-road master to play this game but you will have to understand/learn the mechanics of how Diff-Lock and All Wheel Drive works to be able to push through the mud. If you're struggling with what to do or how to do it, youtube has a lot of how-to videos to help you along the way. I love the challenge mode and single player levels so far. The steering and camera controls take a little time to get used to but work well once you dial it in. This game is laid back and very challenging at the same time. Once you get used to the camera, accept that 10mph is top speed, and you have to try a few times to get a mission right Overall it’s a more of a strategy/sim than a fun off-road game. Not reinvest another hour plus to try again.

If you screw up at least you only have to backtrack a few minutes and try something different. The game would definitely benefit from a autosave/checkpoint system. Running low on gas means you’re done or you have to drive to a gas depot or garage. Doing so increases you fuel burn rate, which in turn burns more gas. It’s critical for fuel savings that you have to watch when you engage 4WD and or lock the diffs. Some places look grassy and firm, but nope. While the game is called mudrunner, it’s a little hard to believe that almost every square inch of map is a knee deep muddy mess. When it takes a half hour to drive to a location only to get stuck, run out of fuel, etc.it stings. Generally off-roading in the sandbox’s is fun, but the missions are sometimes hair pulling. But once you get used to it, it’s not tooo bad. I fell off bridges, hit trees, got stuck because of this at least a dozen times now. They try to give you a decent view but most times the camera does the opposite of what you need to see. The camera is the worst part of the whole game. But if you stick with it, you’ll be a pro at backing up with trailers to say the least. I was expecting a true off-road game but not a lesson in big rig/unimog driving. Yet on the same page, it can be frustrating.

I have been playing this for a few days now and it’s very addictive.

How to play spintires mudrunner