Euro Truck Simulator 2’s v1.56 Open Beta is available to try now, featuring updates to its Special Transport, Schmitz Cargobull Trailer Pack and HS-Schoch Tuning Pack DLCs, plus a raft of UI and quality of life improvements.
Developer SCS Software is likely concentrating its efforts on the upcoming PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S ports of both ETS 2 and sister title American Truck Simulator, which may explain the lack of new content in the works for v1.56.
However, with the new Road Trip (ATS) and Project Coaches (ETS 2) modes in progress, there’s still plenty for truck sim fans to look forward to.
UI and camera
Players can choose to hold or toggle a button or key to use the interior camera’s zoom function, with a new DLC browser making it much easier to see the extra content owned versus the content still to be added (vital when ETS 2 has so many add-on packs).
The game’s profile creation and management system has also been revamped, making it much easier to navigate saved profiles as well as start a new career. A new truck preference screen has also been added to this section, allowing players to browse all the available starter trucks..
The Company tab has also had its UI tidied up, with the Driver, Trailer, Truck and Garage Manager sections all redesigned for ease of use.
Graphics
In terms of graphics, a new height blend technique is being introduced to enhance the visual appeal of the transition between grass, asphalt, dirt, and stone surfaces. The new technique enables SCS to use fewer decals when designing landscapes, thereby saving time and improving game performance.
Special Transport DLC update
The Special Transport DLC will introduce an interesting new cargo type, modelled after a CZ LOKO locomotive.
The company’s fictional EffiShunter 1000 (based on real CZ LOKO concepts) will form part of the DLC in v1.56, providing players with a challenging load to haul.
Measuring 5.3m x 16m x 3.1m and weighing 90 tons (including trailer), the EffiShunter 1000 will be available for three routes: Berlin to Szczecin, Kassel to Hamburg and Bremen to Travemünde.
Additionally, two more CZ LOKO products will be added to the base game: the MUV 75 and EffiShunter 300.
Schmitz Cargobull Trailer Pack DLC update
The Schmitz Cargobull Trailer Pack is also set to be updated when ETS 2 reaches version 1.56, introducing the enormous Schmitz S.CS High Capacity Transport, a double trailer connected by a dolly – the second of its kind in the game.
The update will also add Schmitz’s S.KO City chassis, which features a steering axle to enhance its manoeuvrability, as well as additional lighting options for the firm’s existing S.CS, S.KO, S.BO, and S.KI trailer types.
HS-Schoch Tuning Pack DLC update
The final DLC update in v1.56 is for the HS-Schoch Tuning Pack, which has been expanded to include additional grille, light bar, and accessory options.
HS-Schoch accessories can now be painted in any colour in both standard and matte finishes, with chrome now also an option. Roof bars and front light bars will now be available in both LED and non-LED versions, with bottom grilles featuring slot-based options, as well as an LED version.
As ever, these options will only be available to owners of the requisite DLC packs.
To sample ETS 2’s v1.56 Open Beta, right-click on the game icon in your Steam Library, select ‘Properties’, then ‘Betas’ and pick the ‘Public Beta 1.56’ option.
Euro Truck Simulator 2 v1.56 Open Beta changelog
Gameplay
- Camera Zoom – Hold/Toggle
Vehicles
- HS-Schoch Tuning Pack DLC Update
- Special Transport DLC Update – CZ LOKO
- Schmitz Cargobull Trailer Pack DLC Update
Visual
- Height Blend
UI
- New Profile Creation and Start-up Flow
- Management UI/UX Improvements
Other
- DLC Browser
Source: SCS Software
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