Euro Truck Simulator 2 1.61 Open Beta Launches with Map Discovery Changes

SCS Software has made the Open Beta for the 1.61 update of Euro Truck Simulator 2 available for players to test. The announcement clarifies the current scope of the update, which now includes a new map discovery mechanism and a complete rework of the Livestock Trailer, but excludes two features that were previously highlighted during the Experimental Beta phase.

Changes to the Update Scope

The most significant change for users tracking the development of this version is the postponement of the Multi-Function Display (MFD) and the In-Game Menu. During the Experimental Beta, players provided feedback on these specific additions. SCS Software stated that based on this input, they have decided to remove these features from the 1.61 update. The studio explained that this decision allows them to spend more time refining the features to ensure they deliver the best possible experience when they are eventually released. Consequently, users testing the current Open Beta will not encounter these interface changes.

Players who participated in the Experimental Beta are instructed to switch to the Open Beta branch to continue receiving the latest updates and fixes for version 1.61. SCS Software confirmed that any saves created during the Experimental Beta remain compatible with the Open Beta, meaning progress made in the previous testing phase will not be lost during the transition.

Proximity Exploration Feature

The primary new addition in the 1.61 Open Beta is a quality-of-life feature called Proximity Exploration. This tool is designed to assist players with exploring the world map and discovering new areas along their journey. When enabled, the feature automatically reveals a small area around the player’s vehicle as they travel. This mechanism changes how map discovery works by reducing the need to drive over every tiny section of road to mark it as explored.

This change is particularly relevant for players aiming for 100% map discovery, as it streamlines the process of marking roads as visited. The feature also helps reveal nearby accessible roads and areas around specific locations where multiple road segments sit closely together, such as rest stops, toll gates, border crossings, and gas stations. By automating the revelation of these small segments, the feature aims to make map discovery more intuitive while preserving the core enjoyment of exploring the world.

However, the feature does not remove the challenge of finding hidden content. SCS Software noted that secret roads will still have secrets to uncover. Proximity Exploration can reveal the first segment of a secret road when the player gets close enough, providing a hint that there is somewhere new to explore. Beyond that initial segment, the remaining route must still be discovered by actually driving along it. The feature is optional, allowing players to choose whether they want assistance in hunting down final percentages or prefer to make exploring the map smoother without automated reveals.

Livestock Trailer Rework

In addition to the map changes, the 1.61 update includes a complete rework of the Livestock Trailer. SCS Software described this as a ground-up overhaul completed by their vehicle team. While the announcement confirms the rework is part of the Open Beta, it does not provide specific technical details on the changes to the trailer’s physics, appearance, or handling beyond stating that it has been redone from the ground up.

Feedback and Participation

SCS Software is actively seeking feedback from players who test the Open Beta. The studio has requested that any feedback, bug reports, or issues encountered be shared in the appropriate section of their official forums. The company emphasized that these reports are valuable to the team and that they appreciate the time players take to help improve the game experience. This open call for testing indicates that the 1.61 update is still in a testing phase and may undergo further adjustments before a stable release.

For simulation users, the launch of the Open Beta provides an opportunity to test the new Proximity Exploration system and the reworked Livestock Trailer. The exclusion of the MFD and In-Game Menu changes sets a clear expectation for what is included in this specific version of the update, allowing players to focus on the map and vehicle changes currently available for testing.