Euro Truck Simulator 3 on Steam: all the facts about the release and requirements

The request “euro truck simulator 3 steam” most often arises due to confusion in version numbering, since at the moment the SCS Software studio has not officially announced the release of the third part of the truck driver simulator. Users searching ETS 3, usually encounter information about a large-scale update of Euro Truck Simulator 2 or confuse the main project with the mobile version Euro Truck Simulator Go. It is important to immediately clarify that only the second part is still available on the Valve store page, which continues to receive major patches that expand the game world and mechanics.

Many gamers mistakenly believe that the release of DLC Going East! or Scandinavia marks a new part, but these are only additions to the existing base. The studio is banking on long-term support for the current project, introducing new technologies for rendering and truck physics within one engine. If you see screenshots of the “3” logo online, these are most likely fan concepts or modifications that have nothing to do with the official release on the digital store.

However, interest in a potential sequel is huge, and the community is constantly analyzing any hints from the developers. In this article we will analyze the real state of affairs, discuss the technical capabilities of the modern version and find out whether we should expect a full continuation in the foreseeable future. Understanding the update structure will help you avoid wasting money on fake activation keys.

Current Project Status and Official Statements

Currently the studio SCS Software focused all resources on the development of Euro Truck Simulator 2. Official statements from the developers have repeatedly confirmed that the creation of a third part is not included in their immediate plans. Instead of releasing a separate product numbered “3”, the company is introducing revolutionary changes directly into the existing game client through an update system. Graphics engine has been significantly upgraded, allowing it to display realistic lighting and shadows previously unavailable.

There is a common misconception that the release of large cards such as Iberia or Baltics, marks a new era or hidden release of ETS 3. In fact, it is part of a strategy to turn the game into a single platform for simulating the whole of Europe. Steam users receive all new content through the standard launcher, which simplifies the installation and update process. There is no official announcement of the release date of Euro Truck Simulator 3, and any numbers on the Internet are speculation.

⚠️ Attention: Beware of sites offering to buy an activation key for Euro Truck Simulator 3. Since the game does not officially exist, you risk losing money or infecting your computer with malware.

Developers regularly publish blogs where they share plans for the future. They often mention that the current technological base makes it possible to implement ideas that were previously considered only possible in a sequel. Implementation of support VR helmets and improved suspension physics became possible without switching to a new numbered version. This suggests that the ETS 2 concept has transformed into a constantly evolving platform.

System requirements for the current version

Although the third part was not released, the requirements for the game have grown significantly over the years of the existence of the second part. If you plan to run the project with maximum graphics settings and DLC installed, your computer will need a more powerful ironthan five years ago. Modern high-resolution textures and detailed truck models put a serious strain on the graphics card and processor.

Below is a table with the current system requirements for a comfortable game in 2026-2026, which are often mistakenly attributed to the non-existent third part:

It is worth noting that with the installation of each new add-on, the amount of space occupied increases. SSD drive highly recommended for fast loading of maps and no jerks when loading textures. Using an old hard drive can lead to long waits in the menu and when starting the simulation.

Why is everyone waiting for the third part of the simulator?

The anticipation for the sequel is due to the natural desire of players to get a completely redesigned engine. The current game architecture, while improving, has its limits. Gamers hope that Euro Truck Simulator 3 will bring fully dynamic weather changes, destructible trucks and more complex artificial traffic intelligence. These features are difficult to implement in the old framework without compromise.

Another anticipation factor is the driving physics. Many enthusiasts want to see more realistic clutch behavior, engine performance and wheel interaction with different surfaces. In the current version, physics is simplified for the mass user. The transition to a new engine would allow the introduction of simulation of fluids, wear of parts in real time and the need for more complex maintenance.

• 🚛 Completely redesigned physics of cargo and trailer inertia.
• 🌍 Seamless map of all of Europe without loading screens between regions.
• 🌧️ Dynamic weather system with influence on the road surface.
• 🔧 Detailed simulation of breakdowns and the need to visit a service station.

Additionally, the modding community is also interested in new tools. Current map editor SCS Map Editor powerful, but has limitations. The new part could offer integration with modern 3D editors and support neural networks for landscape generation. This would open up new horizons for content creation.

Alternatives and similar projects on Steam

While the release of ETS 3 remains in doubt, there are decent alternatives on Steam that offer a similar experience or even a deeper simulation. One of the main competitors is American Truck Simulator from the same developers. This project uses a more recent version of the engine and offers modern graphics, although it covers the United States.

For those looking for hardcore simulation, it's worth checking out Spintires or MudRunner. These games focus on off-road driving and require precise control of differentials and winches. Here, the physics of mud and water are implemented at the highest level, which gives the feeling of a real driver of off-road vehicles.

⚠️ Attention: When installing alternative simulators, check the compatibility with your steering system. Not all games support specific functions of expensive steering wheels.

There are also projects like Cargo Transport Simulator, which try to copy the ETS success formula, but often fall short in terms of detail and amount of content. However, they can be an interesting option for variety if you have already completed all the routes in the main game. It is important to read reviews before purchasing so as not to be disappointed in the quality of the product.

Instructions: how to check for updates and DLC

To ensure you have the latest version of Euro Truck Simulator 2 and all required components, follow these steps. Often players are looking for the “third part”, not knowing that the features they need have already been added in the latest patch. Checking the integrity of files will help avoid startup errors.

First, open your Steam library and find the game in the list. Right click on the title Euro Truck Simulator 2 and select "Properties". In the window that opens, go to the “Installed files” tab and click the “Check integrity of game files” button. This process will take a few minutes.

After the verification is completed, launch the game. The main menu shows the current version in the lower corner. If you want to test new features before they are officially released, you can switch to the beta branch. To do this, in the game properties, in the “Beta Versions” tab, select the desired option from the drop-down list, for example, 1.50 - open_beta.

Please remember that using beta versions may result in unstable operation or conflicts with installed mods. It is recommended to back up your saves before switching branches. The save path is usually located at Documents/Euro Truck Simulator 2/profiles.

The influence of mods on the perception of the new part

Modifications play a key role in the longevity of a project. Often it is mods that create the illusion of a new part of the game being released. There are global overhaul mods such as ProMods or RusMap, which completely change the map, adding thousands of kilometers of new roads and cities. For a beginner, the difference between a vanilla game and a modded one can be colossal.

In addition to maps, modders create realistic models of trucks that are not inferior in detail to the official DLC. Physics Mods change the behavior of the car, making it heavier and more inertial. Graphical improvements such as ReShade, add ray tracing and improved lighting, bringing the game visually closer to next-gen standards.

However, the abundance of mods can lead to conflicts and crashes. Playing with 50+ mods requires careful customization of the load order. Often users, seeing screenshots of a mod build, think that these are screenshots from ETS 3. It is important to be able to distinguish between official content and community creativity.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)