ETS2 1.61 Update Adds Proximity Exploration

SCS Software has officially released the 1.61 update for Euro Truck Simulator 2, making it available now on Steam. The update introduces Proximity Exploration, a quality-of-life feature designed to streamline map discovery, and adds the Volvo FH Series 6 100 Year Edition to the game’s roster. While the release includes these new elements, SCS Software has clarified that the Multi-Function Display (MFD) and In-Game Menu changes tested in the 1.61 Experimental Beta will not be part of this specific update. Those features are deferred to a future patch to allow for further refinement and polishing.

Proximity Exploration

The primary mechanical addition in version 1.61 is Proximity Exploration. This feature addresses a common friction point in long-haul simulation: the manual effort required to mark every segment of the world map as explored. When enabled, the system automatically reveals a small area around the player’s vehicle as it travels. This eliminates the need to drive over every tiny section of road to register it as discovered, a process that is particularly tedious for players aiming for 100% map completion.

The feature is designed to be intuitive without removing the core enjoyment of exploration. It helps reveal nearby accessible roads and areas around locations where multiple road segments sit closely together, such as rest stops, toll gates, border crossings, and gas stations. For players who have struggled with hidden or difficult-to-find connections in dense map areas, this automatic reveal provides a smoother experience.

However, the update preserves the discovery mechanic for secret roads. Proximity Exploration will reveal the first segment of a secret road when the player gets close enough, providing a hint that a new area exists. The remaining route of that secret road will only be discovered by actually driving along it. This design choice ensures that while the feature assists with general map coverage, it does not fully automate the uncovering of hidden content.

Volvo FH Series 6 100 Year Edition

Alongside the map tool, the 1.61 update introduces a special vehicle variant to celebrate Volvo Trucks’ 100th anniversary. The Volvo FH Series 6 100 Year Edition joins the game with new interior and exterior designs. These visual updates reflect Volvo’s history of innovation and focus on driver-centric features.

The additions are integrated directly into the base game of Euro Truck Simulator 2. Players can access new accessories and paint jobs specifically for the Aero XL cabin of the Volvo FH Series 6. This expansion of the Volvo lineup provides more customization options for users who prefer the brand’s latest design language.

Beta Feedback and Future Updates

SCS Software acknowledged the participants of the open beta phase, thanking users who reported issues and provided feedback on the forum. This input helped the development team fine-tune the update for a smoother transition to the full release. Specific thanks were directed to those who participated in the 1.61 Experimental Beta, particularly regarding the Multi-Function Display and In-Game Menu.

The decision to exclude the MFD and In-Game Menu from the 1.61 release is a strategic choice to ensure quality. By deferring these additions to a future update, SCS Software aims to deliver a more polished experience when they are ready. This approach separates the immediate availability of Proximity Exploration and the Volvo special edition from the more complex interface changes that require additional development time.

Practical Implications for Players

For simulation users, the immediate impact of the 1.61 update is a reduction in the time spent on repetitive map exploration. The Proximity Exploration feature is an optional tool that can be enabled to assist with map completion. It does not force a change in gameplay style but offers a more efficient way to track progress. Players who enjoy the challenge of manual discovery can choose to leave the feature disabled, preserving the traditional method of marking roads by driving over them.

The addition of the Volvo FH Series 6 100 Year Edition expands the visual variety within the game. With new accessories and paint jobs for the Aero XL cabin, users have more options to customize their vehicles to match the anniversary theme. This content is available immediately with the update, requiring no additional purchase or download beyond the standard patch.

The update is now live on Steam, and players can download it to access the new features. The release clarifies the current state of the game’s development, confirming which features are available now and which are planned for subsequent patches.