Game Euro Truck Simulator 2 (ETS2) from Czech studio SCS Software has become a cult favorite among trucking simulators. Launched over ten years ago, it is still regularly updated, attracting new players and retaining the attention of genre veterans. But when exactly did it come out? ETS2, how did the game develop and what has changed since release? In this article we will look at official release date, key updates, system requirements for different versions and answers to frequently asked questions from players.

Many people mistakenly believe that Euro Truck Simulator 2 is a new game, but in fact it has been around since 2012. During this time, the simulator has undergone major changes: from graphics and physics to the addition of new countries and trucks. If you are planning to buy a game or update it, it is important to understand which version is current today and what novelties await players in the near future.

Next, we will take a detailed look at the release history, how to track updates, and what to do if your version of the game is outdated. You will also find a comparison of system requirements for different years and tips for optimizing performance.

Official release date for Euro Truck Simulator 2

Euro Truck Simulator 2 was officially released on October 19, 2012 for platform Windows. Initially, the game was distributed through the service Steam, and later appeared in other stores, including GOG and Epic Games Store. The developer was a Czech studio SCS Software, also known for her projects 18 Wheels of Steel and Bus Driver.

It's interesting that the first part Euro Truck Simulator came out back in 2008, but did not receive such success. The second part was a breakthrough thanks to improved graphics, more realistic physics and an open world with the ability to freely move between European cities. At the time of release, the game was available 7 countries: Germany, Italy, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg and the UK.

It's important to note that ETS2 was originally positioned as simulator for enthusiasts, not a mass game. However, thanks to regular updates and modding support, the project quickly gained popularity. A year after the release, the number of players exceeded 1 million, and today the audience numbers in the millions.

If you are looking for the exact release date for other platforms:

  • 🖥️ Windows (Steam/GOG) — October 19, 2012;
  • 🎮 macOS — January 19, 2013;
  • 🐧 Linux — February 6, 2013.
📊 What platform do you play ETS2 on?
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Console (if available)
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Update history: how the game developed from 2012 to 2026

For 12 years old Euro Truck Simulator 2 got more 50 major updates, including the addition of new countries, trucks, mechanics and graphical improvements. Developers from SCS Software adhere to the policy long-term support, so the game is still actively developing.

Below is a table with key updates that dramatically changed the gameplay:

Year Version/Update Major changes
2012 1.0 (Release) Basic version with 7 countries, 3 trucks (Mercedes-Benz Actros, Scania R, Volvo FH16).
2013 1.5 "Going East!" Added Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary. New cargoes and companies.
2015 1.18 "Scandinavian DLC" Added Norway, Sweden, Denmark. New road conditions (snow, mountains).
2019 1.35 "Italia DLC" Full Italy with unique roads and cities. Engine updated.
2023 1.48 "Heart of Russia" First official DLC with Russia (Western part). New trucks (KAMAZ).

The update is especially worth highlighting 1.40 (2020)when it was added to the game company ownership system (Trucking Company Management). This allowed players not only to drive trucks, but also to manage an entire fleet, hire drivers and expand their business.

B 2026 ETS2 continues to receive patches with bug fixes, new cargo and minor improvements. Latest major update (1.49) was released in March 2026 and included:

  • 🚛 New trailers and cargo (including dangerous goods with special transportation rules);
  • 🛣️ Improved road surface physics (different types of asphalt, gravel);
  • 🎨 Updated sky and lighting graphics (more realistic sunsets).
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If you play with mods, before every major update make a backup copy folders doc\euro_truck_simulator_2. Many mods stop working after patches!

How to check the current version of Euro Truck Simulator 2

To find out which version ETS2 installed on your PC, follow these steps:

  1. Launch the game via Steam or desktop shortcut.
  2. In the main menu in the lower right corner you will see the current version (for example, 1.49.1.3s).
  3. If the version is different from the latest one on the official website, update the game via Steam → Library → ETS2 → Update.

You can also check the current version at:

If your version is outdated but Steam doesn't offer an update, try: 

1. Close Steam and the game.

2. Delete the file appmanifest_227300.acf in a folder Steam\steamapps\.


3. Restart Steam - the game will start updating automatically.
What to do if the update is stuck?

If Steam shows "0% update" for more than 10 minutes, try:

- Restart Steam with administrator rights;

- Check your Internet connection (disable VPN);

- Clear Steam cache via Settings → Downloads → Clear cache.

System requirements: comparison 2012 vs 2026

In 12 years Euro Truck Simulator 2 has grown significantly in terms of graphics and physics, so the system requirements have also changed. Below is a comparison of the minimum and recommended characteristics for original version (2012) and relevant (2026):

Parameter 2012 (version 1.0) 2026 (version 1.49+)
OS Windows XP SP3 Windows 7/10/11 (64-bit)
Processor Dual-core 2.4 GHz Quad-core 3.0 GHz (Intel i5/Ryzen 5 recommended)
RAM 2 GB 6 GB (8+ GB recommended)
Video card NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GT / AMD Radeon HD 3870 NVIDIA GTX 760 / AMD RX 570 (GTX 1060/RX 580 recommended)
Disk space 3 GB 25+ GB (with DLC)

If your PC can barely handle ETS2 on minimum settings, try:

  • 🖥️ Disable antialiasing (AA) and reduce texture quality;
  • 🔧 Use mods for optimization (for example, Low Poly Models);
  • 🚫 Close background programs via Task Manager (especially browsers).
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For maximum performance in 2026, it is recommended to play on SSD — this reduces map loading time and reduces friezes.

Common problems with versions and their solutions

Many players encounter errors after updates or when installing mods. Let's look at the most common problems and ways to solve them:

1. Error "Version mismatch"

This error occurs when the game version does not match the save or mod version. Solutions:

  • 🔄 Update the game via Steam;
  • 🗑️ Remove outdated mods from the folder mod;
  • 📂 Create a new save (the old one may not be compatible).

2. Crashes when loading the map

Most often associated with a lack of RAM or a mod conflict. Check:

  • 🖥️ Loading RAM into Task Manager (if more than 90%, close unnecessary programs);
  • 🔍 Error logs in the folder crash.log (located in the root directory of the game);
  • 🚫 Disable mods one by one to find the conflicting one.

3. Low FPS on a powerful PC

If you have a modern video card, but the game is slow, try:

  • 🎮 Disable vertical sync (V-Sync);
  • 🔧 Set FPS limit via NVIDIA Control Panel or Radeon Software;
  • 🖼️Zoom out render resolution (not the screen!) in the graphics settings.

Update video card drivers|Make a backup folder mod|Check free disk space (minimum 5 GB)|Disable antivirus during the update|Restart your PC after installing the patch-->

The future of Euro Truck Simulator 2: what's next for the game?

Even though Euro Truck Simulator 2 already exists 12 years old, developers from SCS Software They don't plan to stop support. In 2026, players can expect:

  • 🗺️ New DLC with countries (possible candidates: Portugal, Greece, Ukraine);
  • 🚚 Addition electric trucks (already announced Volvo FH Electric and Mercedes eActros);
  • 🌍 Improved weather system (dynamic precipitation, fog).

A major update is expected in 2026 with redesigned trailer physics and a new “Expeditions” mode (long routes with unique tasks). Work is also underway on multiplayer, but exact dates have not yet been announced.

At the same time, the studio is developing American Truck Simulator and cooks new project (perhaps Euro Truck Simulator 3), but there are no official announcements yet. If you want to stay up to date with news, subscribe to:

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If you want to test new features before release, you can join beta testing via Steam. To do this, select the branch in the game properties public_beta.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about ETS2

When was Euro Truck Simulator 2 released?

Official release date - October 19, 2012 for Windows. Versions for macOS and Linux appeared in early 2013.

How do I know which version of ETS2 I have installed?

In the main menu of the game, the current version is displayed in the lower right corner (for example, 1.49.1.3s). It can also be seen on Steam: Library -> ETS2 -> Properties -> Local Files -> Integrity Check.

Will there be Euro Truck Simulator 3?

There is no official announcement, but in an interview in 2023, representatives SCS Software hinted that work is underway on the "next generation" of simulators. The announcement will probably take place no earlier than 2026–2026.

Is it possible to play ETS2 without the Internet?

Yes, single-player mode available offline. However, to download updates, purchase DLC and multiplayer (via TruckersMP) Internet connection is required.

What trucks will be added in 2026?

In the plan for 2026:

  • 🚛 Volvo FH Electric (electric version);
  • 🚛 Mercedes-Benz eActros;
  • 🚛 Possible return DAF XF with new design.

Exact dates depend on testing.

💡

If you're just starting to play ETS2, start with the base version without DLC. Most add-ons (eg. Going East! or Scandinavia) are often on sale for up to 75% off during Steam sales.

⚠️ Attention: If you are not purchasing a game through Steam, make sure that the seller provides official license. Pirated versions often contain viruses and do not support updates.
⚠️ Attention: When using mods for realistic physics (for example, Realistic Camera Mod or Physics Mod) keep in mind that they may conflict with official patches. Always check compatibility on forums ETS2.LT or SCS Software.