Euro Truck Simulator 2 1.38 [exclusive] Free Download May 2026
Euro Truck Simulator 2 Version 1.38: Installation & Features Released in July 2020, Euro Truck Simulator 2 (ETS2) version 1.38
introduced significant graphical improvements and vehicle updates. While the game is a paid experience, you can legally access it through official channels or test it via a free trial. SCS Software's blog Official Download & Free Trial
The most secure way to get ETS2 is through official platforms to ensure you receive a safe, virus-free version of the game.
: You can download a free trial of Euro Truck Simulator 2 on the Official Website
. The demo has no time limit but restricts access to certain map areas until the full game is purchased. Full Version
: The full game must be purchased and activated via a product key. Once owned on Steam, the game updates automatically to the latest version, but legacy users can use a manual updater to reach specific versions like 1.38. eurotrucksimulator2.com Key Features of Update 1.38
This update brought several major enhancements to the base game: SSAO (Screen Space Ambient Occlusion)
: A graphical overhaul that added more realistic shadows and lighting depth. Lille Reskin
: A complete graphical update to the city of Lille in France. Vehicle Improvements
: Improved automatic transmission (shifting points and adaptive modes) and new tuning parts for the FH and XF Tuning Packs. New AI Vehicles
: Addition of Renault Trucks Range T vehicles to the traffic. trucksimulator.wiki.gg System Requirements for Version 1.38 Euro Truck Simulator 2 on Steam
The official way to access a specific older version of Euro Truck Simulator 2 (ETS2) like 1.38 is through the Steam Beta system. While the full game is not free, you can download a free demo to test the core features. Official Methods for Version 1.38
If you own the game on Steam, you can downgrade or "lock" your game to version 1.38 to maintain mod compatibility (such as for ProMods 2.50). Steam Version (Downgrade/Lock): Open your Steam Library. Right-click Euro Truck Simulator 2 and select Properties. Go to the Betas tab.
In the dropdown menu, select temporary_1_38 - 1.38.x for incompatible mods.
Steam will automatically download the necessary files to revert your game to that specific version. Legacy/Non-Steam Version:
For retail or older digital copies, use the official ETS2 Online Updater to reach specific patch levels.
Summary Table: Legal vs. Pirated v1.38
| | Legal (Steam Beta) | Pirated “Free Download” | |---|---|---| | Cost | Free (if you own the game) | Free (but illegal) | | Safety | 100% safe | High risk of viruses | | Multiplayer | Yes (with downgrade) | No | | Mod support | Full | Limited/broken | | Updates | Can switch to newer versions | Stuck on 1.38 forever |
Bottom line: If you already own ETS2, you already have v1.38 for free via Steam. If you don’t own it, buy it on sale – it’s inexpensive and gives you access to every version ever released, legally and safely.
Euro Truck Simulator 2 (ETS2) version 1.38, released in July 2020, introduced significant graphical and gameplay improvements. While the full game is a paid product, you can download a free demo to experience the core mechanics before purchasing. Key Features of Update 1.38
Visual Enhancements: The addition of SSAO (Screen Space Ambient Occlusion) greatly improved the game's lighting and shadows, providing more realistic depth to the environment.
Map Rework: The city of Lille, France, received a complete reskin with updated road networks, junctions, and detailed scenery. Euro Truck Simulator 2 1.38 Free Download
Unique Dealerships: Truck dealerships across the map were redesigned with unique, brand-specific architectures for each manufacturer.
UI Improvements: The GPS Route Advisor was modernized with a cleaner layout and navigation ETA for next waypoints.
Advanced Customization: A redesigned RGB Color Picker was introduced, allowing players to input HEX, HSV, and RGB codes for precise truck painting.
Sound Update: Upgraded to FMOD 2.01.01, fixing retarder sounds and adding individual horn sounds for various trucks. How to Download
The safest and most reliable way to access ETS2 is through official platforms. Euro Truck Simulator 2 1.38 Release
Update 1.38 for Euro Truck Simulator 2 was released as a free update for existing owners on July 21, 2020. It introduced significant visual overhauls and gameplay refinements, most notably the introduction of SSAO (Screen Space Ambient Occlusion) to enhance lighting and shadows. Key Features of Version 1.38 Visual & Map Updates
SSAO Graphics Improvement: Implemented procedural ambient occlusion to create more realistic shadows in areas where objects meet, improving overall depth and lighting.
Lille City Reskin: The French city of Lille was completely reworked with more accurate road junctions, detailed textures, and new buildings.
Unique Truck Dealerships: Dealership locations across the map were redesigned with unique brand-specific architecture rather than generic buildings.
RGB Color Picker: A redesigned tool for truck painting that includes RGB, HSV, and hex code inputs, plus user-defined presets. Gameplay & Navigation
Redesigned Route Advisor: The UI for the GPS and world map was overhauled to provide a cleaner look.
Navigation ETA: Added estimated time of arrival (ETA) to the next waypoint directly in the Route Advisor and world map.
Improved Automatic Transmission: Refined shifting points and adaptive modes for better driving realism. Vehicle & Content Additions
New Special Transport Routes: Added new routes in the Road to the Black Sea DLC, such as Istanbul to Edirne and Pleven to Sofia. New Customization Parts: FH Tuning Pack: New tuning parts added for Volvo trucks. XF Tuning Pack: Paintable chassis covers for DAF trucks.
Roof Horns: Introduced as standalone mountable accessories with unique sounds for different truck models.
AI Traffic Updates: Added Renault Trucks Range T vehicles to AI traffic (4x2 and 6x2 variants). How to Access Update 1.38
Steam Users: The game typically updates automatically. To manually ensure you are on this version or participate in future betas, go to the Steam Library > Right-click ETS2 > Properties > Betas.
Trial Version: A free trial is available for download on the official Euro Truck Simulator 2 website. Euro Truck Simulator 2 1.38 Release - SCS Software's blog
Euro Truck Simulator 2 1.38 Free Download: A Comprehensive Review
Euro Truck Simulator 2 is a popular simulation game that allows players to experience the thrill of driving a truck across Europe. The game has gained a massive following worldwide, and its latest update, version 1.38, has been eagerly awaited by fans. In this essay, we will discuss the new features of Euro Truck Simulator 2 1.38 and provide a guide on how to download it for free. Euro Truck Simulator 2 Version 1
New Features in Euro Truck Simulator 2 1.38
The 1.38 update of Euro Truck Simulator 2 brings several new features and improvements to the game. Some of the notable additions include:
- New Map Extensions: The update includes new map extensions, including the cities of Budapest, Hungary, and Warsaw, Poland. These new areas provide players with more routes to explore and deliver goods.
- New Trucks: The update adds several new trucks to the game, including the Scania R450, Volvo FH16, and MAN TGX 18.480. These new trucks offer improved performance, handling, and customization options.
- Improved Graphics: The game now features improved graphics, including enhanced lighting, textures, and animations. The game also supports more advanced graphics settings, allowing players to customize their experience.
- New Game Modes: The update introduces new game modes, including a "Freight Market" mode, where players can choose from a variety of cargo types and destinations.
How to Download Euro Truck Simulator 2 1.38 for Free
Downloading Euro Truck Simulator 2 1.38 for free requires some caution, as pirated versions of the game can be malware-infected or contain viruses. However, there are some legitimate ways to download the game for free:
- Steam Store: Euro Truck Simulator 2 is available on Steam, and players can download a free trial version of the game. The trial version allows players to experience the game for a limited time before purchasing it.
- GOG.com: GOG.com offers a free download of Euro Truck Simulator 2, but players need to create an account and agree to their terms and conditions.
- Game Demo: The game's official website offers a free demo version of Euro Truck Simulator 2 1.38, which allows players to experience the game's features and gameplay.
Caution: Risks of Downloading Pirated Versions
Downloading pirated versions of Euro Truck Simulator 2 1.38 can pose risks to players' computers and personal data. Pirated versions can contain malware, viruses, or Trojans that can damage the computer, steal personal data, or compromise security. Players should exercise caution when downloading the game for free and only use legitimate sources.
Conclusion
Euro Truck Simulator 2 1.38 is an exciting update that brings new features, improvements, and gameplay mechanics to the game. While downloading the game for free can be tempting, players should prioritize legitimate sources to avoid risks. By using Steam, GOG.com, or the game's official demo, players can experience the game safely and enjoy the thrill of driving a truck across Europe.
Euro Truck Simulator 2 (ETS2) is a paid title, version 1.38 was released as a free update for existing owners on July 21, 2020
. This specific update, often sought after for its major graphical and functional overhauls, brought a "new coat of paint" to the virtual trucking world. SCS Software's blog The "Story" of Update 1.38
The 1.38 release focused on visual fidelity and expanding the road network, making it a landmark patch for the simulation community. Visual Overhaul (SSAO): The introduction of Screen Space Ambient Occlusion (SSAO)
significantly improved how light and shadows interacted with truck parts and buildings, creating a more realistic depth. A Fresh Look for Lille: The French city of
received a complete "reskin," rebuilding its layout and assets to meet modern game standards. Expanding the East: For players with the Road to the Black Sea DLC, 1.38 added three new Special Transport
routes, including challenging hauls from İstanbul to Edirne and Pleven to Sofia. Customization Upgrades:
It introduced unique truck dealerships and a redesigned RGB color picker for paint jobs, allowing drivers to input specific Hex or HSV codes for the first time. Steam Community How to Access Version 1.38
For those looking to "download" this specific version, it is typically managed through Automatic Update:
If you own the game, Steam automatically updates you to the latest version (currently well past 1.50). Rolling Back:
If you specifically need 1.38 (often for mod compatibility or older hardware), you can access it via the tab in the Steam Library properties. Legacy Edition:
For the non-Steam version, specific patches like v.1.38.1.15 are available through official community mirrors. SCS Software's blog Safety Note:
Avoid "Free Download" sites promising the full game for free; ETS2 is a paid product, and such sites often host malware or cracked versions that lack official support and multiplayer features. are compatible with version 1.38? Euro Truck Simulator 2 1.38 Release - Steam Community Summary Table: Legal vs
Released in July 2020, Euro Truck Simulator 2 (ETS2) Update 1.38 remains a significant milestone for fans of the series. This update introduced major graphical enhancements, map reworks, and long-requested customization options that continue to define the modern driving experience in the game. Key Features of Update 1.38
The 1.38 patch was more than just a standard update; it transformed the visual and mechanical feel of the simulator:
Visual Overhaul (SSAO): The introduction of Screen Space Ambient Occlusion (SSAO) significantly improved shadows and lighting, making truck interiors and exterior environments look more realistic and grounded.
Lille City Reskin: The French city of Lille received a complete makeover, featuring fresh assets and improved layouts to match the quality of newer DLCs.
Unique Truck Dealerships: Every major truck brand now features its own unique dealership design, moving away from the generic showroom templates used in earlier versions.
RGB Color Picker: A redesigned color picker allows drivers to enter specific RGB, HSV, and Hex codes, ensuring fleets can be painted with precision.
Improved GPS and Waypoints: The Route Advisor was updated to show the distance and estimated time of arrival (ETA) to the next waypoint, rather than just the final destination.
Enhanced Sound: The transition to FMOD 2.01.01 brought individualized horn sounds for each truck model and more authentic ambient audio. How to Access ETS2 1.38 Safely
While many seek a "free download" for specific versions like 1.38, it is important to distinguish between official free content and unauthorized sources. 1. The Official Free Demo
3. Why You Should Avoid “Free Download” Websites
Searching for “Euro Truck Simulator 2 1.38 free download” often leads to pirated copies. These come with serious risks:
| Risk | Explanation | |------|-------------| | Malware | Keyloggers, miners, and ransomware are common in cracked EXEs. | | No updates | You can’t use Steam Workshop, multiplayer, or new DLCs. | | Mod incompatibility | Most mods today require v1.48 or higher. | | No multiplayer | TruckersMP and Convoy modes block pirated versions. | | Save corruption | Pirated copies often have broken economy or crashes. |
Legal alternative: The base game often goes on sale for $5–10 on Steam, GOG, or Humble Bundle. For the price of a coffee, you get full access to all versions (including 1.38) legally.
Method 2: Manual Backup (For Mod Organizers)
If you want a standalone version of 1.38 that doesn't depend on Steam auto-updating, you can create a manual backup.
- After downgrading via Steam (Method 1), go to your ETS2 installation folder:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\Euro Truck Simulator 2. - Copy the entire folder to a different location (e.g., D:\ETS2_1.38_Backup).
- To run this version, simply execute the
eurotruck2.exefile from the backup folder.
This allows you to keep your main Steam game updated to the latest version while preserving a clean 1.38 installation for specific modded profiles.
What Made Version 1.38 Special?
Released in the summer of 2020, update 1.38 was not a minor bug-fix patch. It was a major leap forward. Here is what made this version a landmark release:
Euro Truck Simulator 2 v1.38 Guide: What You Need to Know
1. The Graphics & Lighting Rework (DX11 Only)
Before 1.38, ETS2 was slowly transitioning from DirectX 9 to DirectX 11. Version 1.38 finalized that move, removing DX9 support entirely. This allowed for:
- New skybox system: More realistic clouds, sunsets, and dawn lighting.
- Improved shadow cascades: Less pop-in on roadside trees and buildings.
- Better color grading: Roads and vegetation looked less washed out.
Hit the Road: Why Euro Truck Simulator 2 Update 1.38 is a Must-Play Milestone
For trucking enthusiasts and casual gamers alike, Euro Truck Simulator 2 (ETS2) remains the undisputed king of the road. While the game continues to evolve with massive paid map expansions, the free 1.38 update marked a significant turning point in the game’s visual and mechanical fidelity.
If you are looking to jump into the driver’s seat or revisit the game with a fresh coat of paint, here is everything you need to know about the Euro Truck Simulator 2 1.38 Free Download and why this specific version remains a fan favorite.
2. The German Rebuilding Project (Phase 1)
SCS software began rebuilding Germany from scratch. In 1.38, cities like Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich received completely new road networks, accurate company logos, and modern signage. If you were tired of the old, generic “Autobahn” from 2012, this was a breath of fresh air.