Imagine cruising through rolling hills, bustling cities, and picturesque villages, all from the comfort of your virtual truck cab. That’s the magic of Euro Truck Simulator 2 (ETS2), a game that has captivated truck enthusiasts, simulation fans, and gaming hobbyists alike. While many players stick to the main highways and freight routes, there is immense joy to be found in venturing off the beaten path.
This blog dives into why ETS2 has become such a beloved simulator, how to uncover the less-traveled roads, and what you gain from taking a slower, scenic route across Europe. Whether you’re an ETS2 veteran or a curious newcomer, it’s time to fire up your engine and explore hidden gems you might have missed.
The Appeal of Euro Truck Simulator 2
ETS2 isn’t just a truck driving game; it’s a lifestyle experience. Here’s why it continues to dominate the simulation genre since its launch in 2012:
1. Unmatched Realism
A hallmark of ETS2 is its attention to detail. From realistic weather effects and engine sounds to traffic systems that mimic real-world conditions, the game brings the experience of driving a heavy-duty truck to life. The interiors of the trucks are immaculately designed, mirroring actual brands like Scania, Volvo, and MAN.
Players can tweak everything from the truck’s transmission to its exterior paint, offering a level of customization that satisfies even the pickiest of virtual truckers.
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2. Relaxing, Low-Stress Gameplay
Unlike high-octane action games, ETS2 fosters a sense of calm. Navigating Europe’s roads while listening to relaxing music or in-game radio gives players a chance to unwind. It’s the perfect game to play after a stressful day when all you need is a scenic drive.
3. A Vast, Open World
With over 300 cities across 26 countries, ETS2’s map is expansive. Official DLC expansions like Beyond the Baltic Sea and Road to the Black Sea allow players to explore regions like Finland, Turkey, and Romania. But within this vast network of roads, there are countless hidden routes waiting to be discovered.
Uncovering Hidden Routes
Finding the paths less traveled in ETS2 isn’t a feature that’s handed to you on a silver platter—but that’s where the fun lies. Explore like a true adventurer by following these tips:
1. Zoom in on the Map
ETS2’s in-game map doesn’t highlight every single road, especially the smaller ones. Zoom in to see narrow paths and side streets that are otherwise overlooked. These usually lead to isolated villages, factories, or picturesque landscapes.
2. Deliver to Unconventional Locations
When picking delivery jobs, prioritize routes that avoid motorways and highways. Opt for rural deliveries, like farms or remote depots, which often take you through less-traveled paths boasting unique visuals.
3. Experiment with Free Roaming
Sometimes, deliveries can wait! Switch to free roam mode and venture into roads marked as “gray” on the map. The gray areas indicate unexplored territory, so finding them is an excellent way to reveal hidden gems.
Scenic Routes You Can’t Miss in ETS2
1. The Alps of Austria (A10 Tauern Motorway)
Driving through the Austrian Alps, particularly the A10 motorway, is an unforgettable experience. Located between Salzburg and Villach, you’ll witness snow-capped peaks, dramatic tunnels, and serene greenery. For realism lovers, the tight corners and mountain passes are a true test of driving skills.
2. The Road to Bergen, Norway
The stunning fjords of Norway are a must-see. Routes near Bergen feature winding roads carved along steep cliffs, small coastal villages, and jaw-dropping ocean views. If you own the Scandinavia DLC, this drive provides some of the most dramatic scenery ETS2 has to offer.
3. Romania’s Apuseni Mountains (Black Sea DLC)
Romania’s rugged Apuseni Mountains, featured in the Road to the Black Sea expansion, offer lush forests, quaint villages, and thrilling serpentine roads. If you’re after truly off-road experiences, this is your go-to region.
4. Portugal’s Douro Valley
While the Iberia DLC gives you access to Spain and Portugal, the roads winding through Portugal’s Douro Valley are particularly memorable. Famous for its terraced vineyards and tranquil river views, it feels like driving through a postcard.
Community Discoveries and Mods
One of the joys of ETS2 is its vibrant modding community, which perpetually expands what the game has to offer. Mods unlock new opportunities for exploration, from additional roads to dynamic environments.
Notable Mods for Hidden Roads
- ProMods
ProMods expands the map with detailed customizations, adding smaller roads and enriching cities to make your Euro Trucking experience even grander. Players credit ProMods with bringing an unparalleled level of realism.
- Realistic Roads Mod
This mod enhances textures and designs for roads, enabling a more immersive driving experience while exploring lesser-known paths.
- Discoveries Through Forums and Players
The ETS2 player community is always buzzing with information about hidden gems. Check out fan forums on Steam or Reddit for recommendations on routes and mods.
Tips for Exploring in ETS2
Want to make the most of your exploration? Here are some tips:
- Adjust Gameplay Settings: Turn off time constraints for deliveries to have more time to roam.
- Use the Photo Mode: Pause your game anywhere to capture stunning in-game photos. You might even spot areas worth visiting later.
- Maximize GPS Utility: Customize GPS settings to avoid toll roads and highways for alternative routes.
- Turn Off Traffic Sometimes: For a smoother exploration experience, reduce or turn off traffic completely when on narrow, remote roads.
The Relaxation Factor
ETS2 has gained a reputation as much more than a game; it’s therapy in disguise. Cruising down a peaceful road, passing small towns, and listening to calming in-game radio stations can feel incredibly meditative. Many players turn to ETS2 as a way of de-stressing, almost like a virtual road trip.
With the rhythmic hum of your truck’s engine and the dynamic yet realistic world around you, ETS2 turns long drives into cherished, peaceful moments.
Why Explore Beyond the Main Roads?
There’s a unique magic in venturing off the main highways in ETS2. Hidden routes often reveal stunning landscapes, lesser-known landmarks, and even challenging terrains to test your trucking prowess. Exploring also gives players a deeper sense of immersion, connecting them with the wide, diverse map that ETS2 painstakingly builds upon with every update and expansion pack.
Whether it’s a forgotten cobblestone road or a scenic coastal drive, the lesser-traveled paths remind players why they fell in love with Euro Truck Simulator 2 in the first place.
Hit the Road and Find Your Hidden Gems
Euro Truck Simulator 2 isn’t just about completing delivery jobs; it’s about the stories you uncover along the way. By exploring roads less traveled, you’ll deepen your connection with the game while discovering beautiful, hidden corners of virtual Europe.
Grab your steering wheel, kickstart the engine, and don’t forget to soak in the scenery. Every turn in ETS2 leads to a new adventure. The question is, which road will you take next?