Monster Jam is a monster truck racing game based on the existing TV show under the same name, which also incorporates a series of live events hosted by Live Nation. Unlike previous games in the Monster Jam franchise, this game includes 20 pre-existing trucks licensed specifically for the game by USHRA (United States Hot Rod Association). The game features well-known monster trucks such as Destroyer, Bounty Hunter, Blue Thunder, Captain's Cruise, and probably two of the most influential monster trucks of all time - Maximum Destruction and Grave Digger. At the beginning of the game, only a small amount of trucks and tracks are available for choosing. The player is encouraged to participate in various events to attain career points, which will unlock new items. The amount of points given depends on the player's performance in the following events:
Freestyle - a classic monster truck challenge involves free-riding at the arena performing different stunts and interacting with the surrounding environment in the most destructive way possible. In this challenge, it is advisable to "keep the action going" until the time runs out. Also, a combo of different stunts in a succession will result in magnifying the score.
Track Circuit - an offroad lap-based racing through various types of countryside.
Eliminator - is the classic knock-out race in which each lap eliminates the last truck to complete it.
Stadium Circuit - is the same as Track Circuit with the action taking place in the arena, and not outdoors, where trucks compete at different tracks separated from each other.
Stadium Racing - is a drag racing challenge in which players should boost their maximum speed in order to arrive first at the finish of a short un-circled track.
Once the sufficient number of points is achieved, the player will be allowed to participate in Monster Jam World Finals to prove his right to be the ultimate champion of Monster Jam.
The game places heavy emphasis on its fully destructible levels. Nearly everything the player meets on the track may be crushed, moved, or destroyed. The game encourages such behavior by issuing additional points and allowing players to use "nitro boost" for a prolonged amount of time.
The game can be played in two difficulty modes: "Normal" - is enough for everyone, while "Pro" is meant for die-hard Monster Truck enthusiasts only.