Monster Haul

Monster Haul is a 2023 single-player puzzle-strategy game developed by Pugware. The player assumes the role of a monster truck driver contracted to transport oversized, irregularly shaped cargo across hazardous terrain. The objective is to deliver each load to a designated drop-off point without the cargo falling off or the truck sustaining critical damage. The game features a physics-based engine that simulates weight distribution, momentum, and surface friction. Levels are set in environments such as quarries, construction sites, and arctic routes, each presenting unique obstacles including steep inclines, loose gravel, and narrow bridges. The game includes a campaign mode with 40 levels and a sandbox mode for free-form experimentation.

Gameplay mechanics center on cargo stabilization and route navigation. The player controls the truck’s acceleration, braking, steering, and a tilting flatbed. The flatbed can be tilted left or right to shift the cargo’s center of gravity, preventing it from sliding off. The truck also has a winch that can be attached to the cargo to secure it temporarily. Operation controls on standard keyboard use W for forward, S for reverse, A and D for steering left and right. The flatbed tilt is controlled by Q (tilt left) and E (tilt right). The winch is activated by pressing Spacebar to attach or detach. Mouse look is used to adjust the camera angle. Tactical techniques include accelerating gently on loose surfaces to avoid cargo shift, using the winch to stabilize the load before sharp turns, and tilting the flatbed opposite to the direction of a turn to counteract centrifugal force. On steep inclines, the player should maintain low speed and use the winch as a brake assist. Cargo with high centers of gravity requires constant flatbed counter-tilting during lateral movement.