American Truck Simulator News

We feel your anticipation building for the Nebraska DLC, and today, we're excited to satisfy that curiosity by offering you a behind-the-scenes look at its development. Prepare to be captivated by the diverse landscapes that await you, from grassy dunes to wavy hills, cornfields to meadows, and the enchanting Platte River flowing through it all.


Nebraska is far from a monotonous stretch of land. In fact, the DLC promises to showcase the state's rich biodiversity through various biomes. The Sandhills, resembling grassy dunes, provide a unique and picturesque terrain. The Shortgrass Prairie, adorned with rolling hills and landmark mountains, promises an immersive driving experience as you navigate through its landscapes.


The Mixedgrass Prairie unveils vast fields of corn, soybeans, and sorghum, creating a patchwork quilt of agricultural beauty. And for those who prefer the sight of taller grasses, the Tallgrass Prairie offers a blend of grasslands and fields, adding another layer to the visual richness of Nebraska. Each biome presents a new challenge, ensuring that every drive is a distinct adventure.


One of Nebraska's defining features is its intricate network of rivers and streams. Prepare to encounter the most famous of them all - the Platte River. This iconic waterway winds its way through several towns, roads, and highways, offering a scenic backdrop for your journey. Crossing over its bridges or driving alongside its meandering course, the Platte River will become a companion on your travels, adding a touch of serenity to the hustle and bustle of the virtual road.


Moreover, Nebraska boasts a rich variety of vegetation, with wildflowers adorning the roads and landscapes. The state will have many flowers along the roads, including the ubiquitous wild sunflowers that seemingly grow like weeds. You can also expect the company of numerous cattle on the roads, adding a touch of rural life to your journey.


Nebraska may surprise you with its charm, making each drive not just a task but a memorable adventure through the heartland's hidden treasures. Are you already excited to travel to this new state? Let us know by adding the Nebraska DLC to your Steam Wishlist. Stay tuned for more updates by following our social media channels (X/Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok).

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2543810/American_Truck_Simulator__Nebraska/

With the recent release of the Farm Machinery DLC for American Truck Simulator, we wanted to take the opportunity to talk with one of the driving forces behind the new and unique addition. In todays 'Under The Hood' blog, we spoke with Stanislav L, one of our 2D/3D Graphic Designers who helped bring the idea to life.



Featuring 2 new in-game brands, the Farming Machinery DLC allows drivers to deliver a variety of unique cargoes on Lowboy, Dropdeck or Flatbed trailers to a number of agriculture-related industries large and small across the virtual world of American Truck Simulator. So what was the inspiration behind creating this DLC?

Stanislav L, 2D/3D Graphics Designer at SCS Software

"As we continued to work our way across the USA, from the coast, past the Rocky Mountains with its snowy peaks, wild valleys and snake like roads; we arrived into a totally different area, The Great Plains". Stanislav explains "It’s an area of agriculture and the backbone of the country. The fields appear to go on endlessly for miles, with golden crops ready for the harvest. We felt that it'd only be right to represent farming more in our games and highlight the importance of the agriculture industry. After all, it provides nourishment to millions of Americans every day".


So what was Stanislav's role in creating the Farm Machinery DLC? We asked him to find out! "I believe I was a good match for the Farming DLC. Next to the design language and looks of the machines, there are a lot of mechanisms and functional parts. There is a heavy practical side behind all the fancy bodywork. Which can be seen on the first sight. ". Stanislav tells us "I think that I can say that I understand how these machines work, because I have 12 years of experience in the agriculture industry".

"I studied at the Technical Faculty (ČZU), which is the main university for Agricultural Education & Research here in Prague. I then continued my studies and work at the Research Institute of Agricultural Engineering (I was a scientist!). I then went on to work at one of the biggest companies which designs and produces its own machines here in Czech Republic. My positions included working in the Design Engineering department, which included assisting the team to administer their CAD data and models. I also programmed a bunch of standalone and integrated tools in Java, optimized their workflows with custom classes in their CMS etc. I then went on to switch from IT to graphics (because this was the subject I loved always the most) and became the head of graphic design in the Marketing Department".


Having this background and previous work experience would prove to be incredibly useful when it came to the creation of the Farm Machinery DLC. Stanislav explains "As a concept artist at SCS Software, I transform ideas from words or paragraphs into visual form, I help design how the DLC will look".

"I created the concept designs for all the machines which we wanted to depict in the DLC. We created two in-game brands, Owl and Greenler, which are solely fictional. I also designed nine machines (with some variations in-between the brands). Our aim was to make them as realistic as possible, so that you (the player) are immersed with realistic cargo, that is used in the agriculture industry".


So how many people were involved in the creation of this DLC? "Actually many people were part of this project (and helped us to successfully release it and deliver to players)." Stanislav tells us "Dominik (3D Graphics Designer/Technical Supervisor) was responsible for the Technical/Modelling side and I was more on the artistic/Design end. I also must mention the Research department, who provided us with plenty of resources and information about US farming machinery. They assisted us in choosing the categories and types of machines which were ultimately selected for this DLC".

"During the production stage, we had several 3D Graphic Designers working on the DLC. We had nine machines to create, so each of them made one or two models. It was great to have such a big team because we were able to work on many models simultaneously and shorten the production time".


"The last stage involved their implementation in our game and comprehensive testing & bugfixing. We also had a small inner circle, which included Smety (Senior Vehicle Artist) and Peter (3D Graphic Designer), both having experience in the Agriculture industry. I would like to thank all those involved the creation of this DLC, it wouldn't have happened without their hard work."

So how long did it take to create this DLC, and which cargoes were the most fun and/or most challenging to create? Stanislav shares his answer with us. "I think it took around a year. From the idea stage through preproduction, production, implementation into the economy, testing, bugfixing, etc. It is quite hard to remember when we specifically started talking about it though. As for the cargoes question... The Crawler tractor was really fun, it's the field’s powerhouse! It always has great aesthetics and is the manufacturer’s flagship".


"I also really enjoyed working on the autonomous tractor, as it is the future, and they are about ready to hit the market in the real world. I enjoyed experimenting with all curves and aerodynamic lines that are featured on it. Developing this model was fun, as I wanted to give it a futuristic look. I enjoyed it a lot. The cabin accessories were also fun to create. It was great to jump from the machines hard iron and solid mechanisms to working on plushies and play with toys for a while like we are little kids again".


"The most challenging aspect of this DLC was probably the Seeding unit, not from a design but a technical side point of view. This is because there are not a lot of bodies which can hide the inner parts, you pretty much see it all. Nothing is indicated, every single part is there on the machine, visible for all to see. So it was a challenge to be able to depict it and stylize it within the borders of our polygon limit. Luboš (3D Graphic Designer) did a great job on it."


We're thankful for the time Stanislav took out from his work schedule to share a little Under the Hood with us about this DLC. We asked him for anything he'd like to share with you, our #BestCommunityEver. "Have fun, play games, Simulation ones are the the best and deliver some Agriculture Machines in this DLC! Help the farmers in their hard work".

"Oh and just something to share, we have even more information we'd love to share with you, that didn't make it into this blog. We are playing with an idea of creating a 'Making of the Farming DLC' downloadable publication. Let us know in comments if you would be interested in seeing this, as-well other subjects in other formats besides our blog".


If you haven't already, be sure to check out the Farm Machinery DLC, available now for American Truck Simulator on Steam! If you already own this great addition and you are enjoying, consider leaving a positive review for us too. We hope you enjoyed this Under the Hood look for this DLC, let us know if you'd like to read about some specific subjects in the future! Until then, keep on truckin'.

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2638630/American_Truck_Simulator__Farm_Machinery/

The moment we've all been eagerly waiting for is finally here! We're thrilled to announce the release of the much-anticipated Kenworth T680 100 Years Anniversary Edition for American Truck Simulator.


After numerous requests from our passionate community, we've partnered with Kenworth to bring you a completely new vehicle – the Kenworth T680 100 Years Anniversary Edition. This iconic truck represents a century of Kenworth's commitment to excellence and innovation, making it a must-have for every trucker out there.

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The special edition features an onyx-finished grill and filter covers, a distinctive Kenworth 100 badge on the sleeper cab, and a luxurious interior with red accents and silver trim. The signature edition seats and steering wheel, along with special limited edition black wheels with silver trim add a touch of sophistication. Safety meets innovation with digital mirrors, a blind spot detector, and the Kenworth Idle Management System at the back of the cab. Aerokits from FlowBelow enhance aerodynamics, while the truck's configuration boasts the highest sleeper, the 76-inch High Roof Sleeper, paired with a 6x4 chassis and the AirGlide AG400L suspension system. Get ready for a stylish virtual journey honoring Kenworth's enduring legacy!


This project thrived thanks to a fantastic collaboration with Kenworth, especially Brianna Potthast and her team, who was such a joy to cooperate on this truck with. Special thanks also go to our vehicle team, especially Daniel Antonín, and our external colleague Renju Therakathu from New Zealand. Stay tuned for exclusive interviews with Daniel and Renju, offering insights into the Kenworth T680 100 Years Anniversary Edition's development.


While we're proud to release the Anniversary Edition on time for Kenworth's 100 years celebration, this is just the first stage of the full T680 release. This project was done on a super-accelerated schedule, and we made it happen on time thanks to smooth cooperation with experts from Kenworth. However, we'll need several more months to complete all the customization options our #BestCommunityEver is used to when receiving a new vehicle family with complete treatment, so stay tuned!

Gear up for the ride of a lifetime with the Kenworth T680 100 Years Anniversary Edition in American Truck Simulator. Stay tuned for more updates by following our social media channels (X/Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok). We'll see you on the road!

There is a story, I’ve been told,
About a place that’s very old,
A place that only few have seen,
A place where you have never been.

And in this land, I’ll have you know,
It seems to always ever snow.
There must be something in the air,
A kind of magic everywhere.

There’s fun and laughter to be had,
And no one there is ever sad,
Especially with the time at hand!
Behold, it’s Christmas Winterland!

With finest arts and crafts to make,
And choccy goodies all to bake,
With mountain ranges all around
And festive markets to be found.

It’s to this land that we must haul,
And bring supplies for one and all.
And don’t forget the Northstar post,
Where Christmas cards are sent the most.

So, how on earth do you get there?
Well, not by land and not by air.
Instead you need to give a hand
And load supplies to Winterland.

Then once you’re ready for the ride
And offering your help with pride,
A snowy portal will appear.
Just look around, you’ll find it near.

Then drive to it, and don’t delay
Now park inside, then on your way!
Once you arrive, explore, have fun.
It’s Winterland for everyone.

But wait, no wait, I tell you more,
And for this task I do implore,
That this is only half of it
And now here comes the greatest bit.

That to this land you’ll venture forth,
Yes to this land, it’s in the north,
But back you’ll go with gift packs bound
For all the homeland cities found.

Ah, found you say, but found oh where?
Well, through the portal if you dare,
With cargo destination known,
Else leave it to the portal’s own.

Then once you’re back, with gift packs done,
You’ll help to spread more snowy fun!
But not just fun, a legend grand,
Of magic Christmas Winterland!

So, haul for one and one for haul
And Very Merry Christmas All!

It’s that special time of year again, but this time we’ve sprinkled a little magic around and we are delighted to offer to you something that has never been seen before, something unprecedented, and we’ve been working on it for a very long time. To our #BestCommunityEver, we give you our Christmas Winterland event for Euro Truck Simulator 2 and American Truck Simulator!


Join us to explore the fun and festivities of Christmas like never before as you embark on a magical journey to Christmas Winterland and deliver supplies and gift packs across the world! For this event, we challenge the community to get 200 Snowflakes awarded to cities across all trucking territories for each of the five tiers. As tier rewards, players will receive specially crafted cabin items, each representing one of the five festive depots within Winterland!

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You’ll be able to track the community progress on World of Trucks or directly in the game using the updated External Contracts interface.


We’ve also created a special #ChristmasWinterland event Desktop Background Theme this year, and we like to think it sends a clear message for how to find some fun this Christmas, follow the sign post, we hope you enjoy it! It will be there for the duration of the event to raise event awareness and share the Christmas spirit for you!


Also, pencil in the 19th of December, from 18:00 CET, for our annual Christmas Stream featuring Pavel Šebor! There will be some giveaways, and plenty of interesting updates as usual, there might even be some teasers for new stuff, but for sure there will be loads of fun with a touch of SCS magic! The stream will take place on our Twitch channel, so don't miss it!


[h3]Christmas Winterland Event Rules:[/h3]

Using External Contracts with a World of Trucks-connected profile in Euro Truck Simulator 2, American Truck Simulator or both, the community is to deliver supplies and gift packs to and from Christmas Winterland using as many cities as possible.

There are 5 different depots in Winterland for all deliveries, to and from, they are:

1. Christmas Market...a town square market
   
2. Marigold's...a chocolate factory
   
3. Northstar...a post office
   
4. Rudolph's Crafts...an arts workshop
   
5. Snowy Peaks...a mountain resort market
   

Your personal goal is to complete 15 deliveries for them including at least 1 delivery to or from each depot, using Euro Truck Simulator 2, American Truck Simulator or both games combined.

Snowflakes are gained for those cities that have delivered to or received from Winterland. For a city to receive 1 Snowflake, the community needs to complete 1000 deliveries between it and Winterland. Each city can receive up to 5 Snowflakes!

The community goal is to reach at least 1000 Snowflakes for cities across all trucking territories. A unique community reward will be unlocked for each tier of 200 Snowflakes accomplished, with 5 tiers in total.

[h3]Rewards[/h3]

• Personal: Your contribution of 15 or more deliveries to or from the 5 Christmas Winterland depots will gain you:
  
  • A special World of Trucks Achievement.
    
  • A stunningly beautiful, Winterland truck paint job
    

• Community: There will be 5 tiers to unlock. Each tier will bring a special cabin item reward for both games, based on the 5 amazing depots within Christmas Winterland, so let's haul!
  

[h3]Christmas Winterland directions[/h3]

Access to Winterland is available using a portal, which materialises after you've accepted any event cargo. Find it on the map and navigate to it. Look for the sparkles!

When leaving Winterland through a portal, you can either deliver a cargo to it's destination, or travel to a random city for a new job to Winterland.

Note: In order to qualify for any community reward, you must complete at least your personal goal in Euro Truck Simulator 2, American Truck Simulator or both. Each reward will be a Steam inventory item for both Euro Truck Simulator 2 and American Truck Simulator. Once completed, claim your reward in the Events page on your World of Trucks profile.

The event will be concluded on Sunday, the 14th of January at 23:59 UTC.

As always, we look forward to hearing about your Christmas Winterland adventure this year, and we’d sure love to see more photos from you while you are achieving your goals and receiving your well-earned rewards this special season of giving. Share your screenshots and videos with us using the hashtag #ChristmasWinterland on our Facebook ATS / ETS2, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram profiles and we will share our favourite ones.

After the recent launch of the Kansas DLC for American Truck Simulator, we've been overwhelmed with feedback pouring in from all corners. It's delightful to witness a multitude of screenshots and videos across different social media platforms, highlighting the journeys of the #BestCommunityEver, along with the valuable insights from content creators. We appreciate both the positive vibes and constructive criticism.


Today, we're happy to show you some of the feedback, starting with the cool screenshots and videos flooding our social media. The stories of our awesome #BestCommunityEver members driving through Kansas still amaze us, and we regularly share your posts with our team. Keep sharing those screenshots and videos by tagging us on X/Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.


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The Steam Page for Kansas is abuzz with positive energy, courtesy of the numerous glowing reviews it has garnered. A sincere thank you to everyone who took a moment to share a review or offer constructive feedback about Kansas! If you'd like to share your own review, feel free to do so on the Kansas Steam Store Page.


Our latest DLC has also managed to catch the eye of some official press coverage, for example, the GameScout portal which gave it a great review! If you're not sure about adding Kansas to your American Truck Simulator map, check out the full article.


We also contacted some of your favorite content creators who have been diligently capturing and live-streaming their trucking adventures in the latest map expansion. A heartfelt acknowledgment to these creators for generously sharing their perspectives and enabling us to convey them to our blog readers.

"Kansas! The long-awaited DLC arrived in my hands, and let me tell you that it was a pleasure to travel its routes, where the blue sky and the great plains covered with sunflower plantations accompanied us. Both agriculture and livestock are noticeable in every kilometer traveled and transmit that peace so characteristic of the countryside. This Kansas DLC is ideal to enjoy by getting into your truck, with your list of favorite songs, and enjoying everything it has to offer. Without a doubt, an experience that deserves to be lived or, rather, driven." - RamaSabeee.

"SCS Software has done it again. This time with Kansas, the Sunflower State. From the natural grasslands to historic towns like Dodge City, you will find plenty of roads and scenic settings to see. The quality and love that SCS Software puts into every mile brings this latest DLC to life. As a retired truck driver, I can truly appreciate the realism of a driving simulator that feels immersive and realistic. From all of us at TeamConvoy we wish you, the #BestCommunityEver, happy trucking," - TruckinCowboy.


"The Kansas DLC for American Truck Simulator is a true masterpiece. The developers have gone the extra mile to capture every aspect of this state in meticulous detail, creating unforgettable journeys through picturesque landscapes. The most impressive feature is the detailed representation of terrains, charming towns, and authentic vegetation. The quality of terrain execution, road textures, and details is remarkable, crafting a realistic environment. The DLC seamlessly integrates with the rest of the game, ensuring consistency and smooth gameplay. It's not just a new map; it's a full-fledged experience of traveling through Kansas, enriching the virtual journeys for every truck simulator enthusiast," - Seba3711.


"Kansas! What a pleasure it has been, from exploring the bustling cities to cruising on the open roads through prairie plains! This DLC is absolutely stunning and the details throughout really show the care and thought SCS has put into it. As someone who lives outside of the States, it has been fascinating to learn more about the Sunflower State and its industries - it really feels alive as you drive through. Keep your eyes peeled for the Yellow Brick Road, truckers!" - keeweewuh.

We are excited to have you hit the roads of Kansas! Keep sharing your adventures with us by using #CruisingKansas. Stay tuned for more updates by following our social media channels (X/Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok). See you on the road!

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2298430/American_Truck_Simulator__Kansas/