SCS Software released a new game module called Driving Academy with the 1.52 update for ETS 2 and ATS. The feature, which was previously announced, was introduced through live streams. Driving Academy offers scenarios that include training for truck driving and maneuvering. It will evolve based on feedback, and they already have new sections in development.
Official Trailer
Inspired by years of feedback from players, the SCS Software team is venturing into a new area. Many players have mentioned that ETS 2 and ATS have helped them grasp the basics of truck driving, learning how to handle a truck and trailer, maneuver, and even reverse park. In fact, SCS Software has featured these players, who transitioned from virtual to real-life truck drivers, in their blog on several occasions. Many individuals have gone on to become real truck drivers through these games, and this trend continues today. Taking this feedback into account, the studio decided to introduce a series of specially designed scenarios into the game, aimed at enhancing and expanding these driving skills.
The Driving Academy will help players learn how to handle the truck and trailer combination, starting from basic driving skills and progressing to complex parking maneuvers. These challenging courses are detailed with driving instructions, including diagrams, pointers, and directions. This new game module offers various scenarios inspired by real-life instructions given to students, with increasing difficulty levels. Additionally, a new replay feature has been introduced, allowing drivers to analyze their performance, marking the first time such a feature has been added to ETS 2 and ATS.
In the near future, they plan to publish an Under the Hood blog post detailing the challenges and thought process behind the development of the Driving Academy module.
The SCS Software team initially offers a course consisting of 31 scenarios, and it appears that new scenarios are in development. Thanks to the positive feedback they’ve received from the community, this module could continue to evolve with updates. Given the current status of Euro Truck Simulator 2 and American Truck Simulator, the addition of such a driving training module was much needed.
In the future, they are eager to create additional scenarios and special challenges that real-life truck drivers may encounter. Their ultimate goal is for this game module to provide a deeper understanding of both truck driving and the systems involved in the process. However, they acknowledge that there is still a long way to go to fully realize this vision.
You may have noticed that some sections aren’t too difficult. This isn’t a parking game, nor does it offer overly challenging courses. Otherwise, players who prefer a more casual experience might struggle to complete the levels. In fact, many of these scenarios are things we already do during normal gameplay. However, a simulator like this truly needs a well-prepared training course, and we think it’s a great implementation. We’re satisfied with the first release. Most likely, more courses will be added in the future, where we can test vehicle handling in different ways. As you know, various truck brand facilities have already been included, and many scenarios could be possible in those areas.
Live streams here
