Isle of Ireland: N59 & Connemara Loop

Today, we are excited to share with you a look at one of Ireland’s most scenic driving experiences coming to the upcoming Isle of Ireland DLC for Euro Truck Simulator 2. Introducing the iconic N59 and the famous Connemara Loop, a route that'll take you past some of the most breathtaking landscapes, remote countrysides, and natural landmarks.

The N59 is the longest national secondary road in Ireland, stretching over 290 kilometres between Sligo and Galway, this scenic route takes drivers through winding roads, quiet villages, rolling hills, lakes, and dramatic Atlantic landscapes. Along the way, players will experience the unique atmosphere that makes Ireland’s west coast so popular with travellers from around the world, which our talented teams have been recreating in detail. 

On your journey along the N59, drivers will be able to travel on the renowned Connemara Loop, where roads weave between mountains, lakes and open countryside. Some of you with a sharp eye may already recognize the picturesque Pine Island area along Derryclare Lough, which was one of the locations we shared in our “Ireland: Guess Where We Are” blog.

Further along the route, players will encounter one of Ireland’s most iconic landmarks, Kylemore Abbey. Nestled beside the lake and backed by dramatic mountain scenery, this historic estate is being recreated with great care by our map and asset teams.

Continuing north, you'll be able to view Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord. Carved deep into the surrounding mountains, this spectacular natural formation is well worth a stop to admire its beauty. As you travel along the N59, you'll also be treated to views of Croagh Patrick, one of Ireland's most iconic mountains, known locally as "The Reek". 

You'll then have the opportunity to discover the charming town of Westport, one of the smallest settlements represented in this DLC. Despite its modest size, our team felt it was an important addition in helping represent the authentic communities found across the Isle of Ireland.

North of Westport, the road ventures through the vast Wild Nephin National Park, known for its remote peat bog landscapes, dark rolling hills, and rugged wilderness. The scenery here takes on a completely different character. Adventurous truckers exploring the surrounding roads may also stumble upon hidden viewpoints overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and spot countless small islands scattered off the coast. 

Nearby Sligo, you'll travel through small settlements, open countryside, and stretches of coastal scenery that showcase the raw beauty of the northwest. Whether you are delivering cargo along winding mountain roads or simply enjoying the scenery from your cab, the N59 and Connemara Loop is a route you cannot miss!

Tá an tOileán Smaragaide ag glaoch! The Emerald Isle is calling! If you're excited to discover, explore, and travel across the Isle of Ireland, be sure to add this upcoming map expansion to your Steam Wishlist! We sincerely thank everyone who has supported us so far by doing so. We look forward to sharing more from this upcoming DLC in the future. Until then, keep on truckin’!

Isle of Ireland: Guess Where We Are

How well do you know Éire? Our team is hard at work creating the Isle of Ireland for Euro Truck Simulator 2, and we’ve got some early work in progress screenshots to share with you!

We know our community has a sharp eye, so we’re putting you to the test to guess where in Ireland these screenshots were taken. They are based on real life locations being recreated in detail for this DLC, so if you know the area, or have some geo-guessing skills, you might just recognise where each one is from.

We’d love to hear your guesses, so be sure to share them in the blog comments below, on our social media channels, or even on our official forum. 

Development on the Isle of Ireland DLC is still ongoing, but we hope this glimpse gives you a sense of the beauty and history that awaits you. We’ll be sure to keep you updated on the latest development news and previews, and if you like what you’ve seen here today, be sure to add it to your Steam Wishlist to be notified of its release. Until next time, keep on truckin'! 

Isle of Ireland: Researching the Isle of Ireland with Adam

As the work on the Isle of Ireland DLC for Euro Truck Simulator 2 continues, we thought about taking you behind the scenes of our work and showing you more about what a job as a researcher in SCS Software looks like. So today, we bring you an interview with our colleague Adam, who will tell you more about his work on the Isle of Ireland!

Adam joined SCS in 2022, and since then, his primary focus has been on map DLCs for Euro Truck Simulator 2. 

"I've conducted research for the West Balkans, Greece, Nordic Horizons, and the reworks of Switzerland and the Benelux. The UK rework and the Isle of Ireland are the first two projects I've been tasked with overseeing for the Research & Game Development department. The Isle of Ireland is special to me for personal reasons as well, since this is the first time I have the opportunity to collaborate with my brother, who is the map lead for this DLC."

Adam is responsible for ensuring that the department prepares high-quality materials for the Isle of Ireland DLC in a timely manner for the other departments. "These aren't just references for map designers; other specialized departments — such as the vehicle, vegetation, and road design teams — also rely on our work. But I don't do this alone. Our team has experts for all of these various areas. I work alongside many talented and enthusiastic people," Adam explains.

So, how exactly does the process of research for map expansions look? The department's involvement begins long before any actual map building starts, laying the groundwork that shapes everything that follows.

"In the first phase, it was necessary to thoroughly familiarize ourselves with the history, culture, natural environment, relevant laws, and traffic regulations. In collaboration with the map lead, we selected the cities we wanted to include in the DLC, and I proposed which highways and roads would connect them. An important part of our work is also figuring out the placement of depots across the map so that the economy works for us. We have a specialist on our team dedicated to this very issue. With her help, and in collaboration with the map lead, we also prepared completely new economy depots for the DLC. We then researched exactly how they work and designed the best way to implement them in our game," Adam says.

Once the planning phase is complete, the team moves on to gathering detailed real-world references, capturing both the big picture and the subtle differences that make each location unique.

"The next step was collecting photographic data, during which our team "scanned" all the roads and towns, shot by shot, trying to capture what is typical for the island. We tried to capture the most important elements, but we also focused on the small details. I also emphasized that different parts of the island vary significantly, and it was necessary to take this into account. As an example, I can mention road markings, which are completely different between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland," he told us.

"The result of this phase of the project is a shortlist of the most important assets, which the asset department creates based on the source materials, so that map designers can subsequently use them to assemble the map. In the same way, and in collaboration with our vegetation specialist, specifications for the vegetation department are then developed," Adam explained to us.

The work of the department goes far beyond general research - it often requires diving deep into highly specific and technical details to ensure authenticity.

"We also need to understand the local culture, customs, and context. As an example, I can mention directional signs, where it was necessary to study manuals, and together with the road department, figure out how to approach the fact that specific dimensions vary from sign to sign - requiring a solution that respects reality while remaining technically feasible. In reality, all dimensions are based on the size of the lowercase letter "x," and once this value is determined, we divide it by 4 to get the so-called "Stroke Width," and all other elements - spacing, arrow size, borders, and the size of the sign itself - are calculated as multiples of this unit. And the size of "x" itself is influenced by the permitted speed and the type of sign."

But their work is far from over, and it won't be finished until the Isle of Ireland DLC is actually released. "We're continuing to prepare materials for the creation of new vehicles, assets, 3D character models, vegetation, and branding. We're also conducting quality checks directly in the editor and gathering all sorts of additional information," Adam told us.

The biggest challenge regarding research for the Isle of Ireland is that it is a vibrant and rapidly developing region, as new developments are constantly being built and the landscape is literally changing in front of your eyes.

"For example, the port of Rosslare underwent a major modernization last year, completely transforming its transportation layout. Waterford, meanwhile, is currently undergoing one of the largest urban transformations in its modern history. As for the architecture, perhaps the biggest challenge was to accurately capture the differences between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, as well as to convey the character of the smaller, charming towns with their picturesque, colorful houses. It's satisfying when I manage to solve a problem and track down information or a reference that’s hard to find," he says.

To bring all that research and planning to life, the map team will carefully translate Ireland's unique character into the in-game world, giving players a lot to explore as they uncover the map filled with plenty of landmarks to discover.

"The Irish island has a rich and complex history and a strong cultural identity, all of which will be reflected in the map's design. The entire island is a landmark in its own right, thanks to its unique scenery, but players can look forward to downtown Dublin on the banks of the River Liffey, the Samson & Goliath cranes in Belfast Harbor, the peat bogs in central Ireland, the wild landscapes of Connemara and the Killarney area, and much more," Adam hints.

And with that, Adam and the whole team would like to send a final message to our #BestCommunityEver as they continue to work hard on bringing you another quality map.

"I hope we'll be able to capture the magical atmosphere of this landscape with its cozy, colorful towns. I hope players will appreciate the attention to detail, discover all sorts of easter eggs, and that we'll be able to convey to them the enthusiasm with which we've approached the Isle of Ireland DLC from the very beginning. I myself am looking forward to getting behind the wheel and driving along the winding roads that twist through the green hills."

We look forward to sharing more news from the Isle of Ireland in the future, so be sure to keep an eye on our blog for upcoming updates. Don't forget to add the expansion to your Steam Wishlist and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Bluesky, or subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed. Until then, happy hauling!

Isle of Ireland: Meet the Team

Today, we’d like to shine the spotlight on the team working on the upcoming Isle of Ireland map expansion for Euro Truck Simulator 2. This brand-new DLC will take drivers across the island of Ireland, from lively urban centres to quiet coastal roads and rolling green countrysides. As with every map expansion we create, bringing a new region into the world of ETS2 requires a passionate group of developers working together to carefully craft every road, city, and landmark.

In this edition of Meet the Team, you’ll get the chance to learn more about some of the people behind the project. The developers featured here have prepared short introductions along with a few small insights into what they’ve been working on so far. We hope you will enjoy getting a closer look at the team helping to build this exciting new destination.

Honza - Map DLC Lead

"Hi. It has been six years since I joined SCS. It has been a great journey ever since. I grew from being a junior map designer to map lead, and now I enjoy leading such a talented group of people.

We're finishing up the Benelux rework project, and I hope truckers will enjoy driving on highways there soon. Meanwhile, we have started with the next project, the Isle of Ireland. This will be my first regular DLC, which is exciting. The Emerald Island is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful pieces of land on the whole continent. Green pastures, wild western coast, lively, colourful cities and towns. Oh, and not a lot of highways! We'll give it our best to do it justice.

Little about me: I have a Polish wife, a new baby and a neurotic dog. My favourite pastime: Having a nice beer while watching campy horror movies."

Eliška (foxxy) - Senior Map Designer

"Hi, I'm Eliska, a former filmmaker turned map designer. My journey with SCS Software started nearly 5 years ago during the pandemic and has been enjoyable and fulfilling ever since. I had never before imagined that I would be able to start a brand new career in my forties, based on what I loved to do in my free time my whole life - building imaginary digital worlds in games.

I am grateful that SCS accepted me without any prior professional experience, helped me grow and learn, and landed me where I am today, a senior specialist on a great team in one of the most peaceful games in the world. And that would not be possible without our incredible players. Thank you."

Kristián - Map Designer

"I have been working at SCS Software for four years, during which I have contributed to several map expansions, including the Benelux rework project. Within this project, I worked on the cities of Rotterdam and Antwerp, as well as the Europoort area. I specialise in creating ports and ferry terminals, but I also work on city design and the surrounding areas, focusing on their layout, atmosphere, and functionality within the game world.

For the Ireland DLC, I am responsible for the creation of cities and ferry terminals, including Waterford, where I continue to bring these urban environments to life through detailed design. I hope players will enjoy exploring them as much as I enjoy creating them."

Veronika  - Junior Map Designer

"Pine trees lining German highways, small marinas in Nordic Horizon, water channels in Benelux. These are projects for which I had the opportunity to create maps. And now we are starting on the mysterious, cosy Ireland, which I associate with peat bogs and fairytale views of the countryside. I am especially looking forward to those in the heart of Ireland, around the town of Athlone, where I will be building. You can also look forward to lots of roadside art sculptures on your way."

Anis - Map Designer

"I spent years studying academic painting and drawing at two different universities. Over time, surrounded by theory, technique, and countless books on the history of art, I became convinced that I understood what "Art" truly meant. My education gave me structure, discipline, and a sense of certainty, but certainty can be limiting.

Now, six years into my journey at SCS Software as a Senior Map Designer, I see things differently. From shaping the quiet suburbs of Iberia and the rural roads of Slovenia to working on major cities and crafting unique custom depots, I’ve learned that art isn’t confined to canvas or theory. It lives in scale, in detail, in atmosphere – in everything we do, putting our heart into our work."

Marek - Junior Map Designer

"I joined SCS less than a year ago as a junior map designer. Immediately after my probation period, I started working on a section of Galway in Ireland, which was later featured in the teaser for the Ireland DLC. I’m really happy about it and grateful to have joined SCS Software at this time, with the opportunity to work on Ireland. Given the country’s diversity, ranging from dense urban centres to rugged, hilly terrain, the role of a map designer here allows me to work on an exceptionally wide and engaging variety of locations. We hope you enjoy exploring the Isle of Ireland as much as our team enjoyed creating it!"

Libor - Map Designer

"I have been working as a Map Designer for four years and have contributed to the West Balkans, Greece, and Nordic Horizons DLCs. Each country has its own unique vibe and atmosphere, and I truly enjoy bringing that into our game. Our work is not just about recreating well-known landmarks. Often, it’s a small, cosy street recreated 1:1 that you probably wouldn’t see in any other game, yet it adds that special touch and makes you truly feel like you’re driving in a specific country.

Every DLC starts with detailed research, from the distinct look of architecture, roads, signs, and sidewalks to small details like wildflowers that may grow only in one particular country. I love the attention to all these geeky details in our company, and I believe this is what makes our games unique. My main focus on the Ireland DLC is Killarney National Park and the town of Killarney. The nature of this region and the town itself are absolutely stunning, and I’m doing my best to bring that beauty to your screens. I also believe these roads will be perfect for upcoming coaches, as it is primarily a tourist region with only a small amount of industry. I’m really looking forward to seeing how this DLC will be received and to reading your honest and motivating reviews."

Jitka - Map Designer

"I've been enjoying creating landscapes and exploring the possibilities of our game since joining the team in 2022. After some of the most challenging roads in Switzerland and the verticality of Luxembourg city, I started working on Ireland.

Ireland is more than just green. It's mist rising over dark hills on the horizon, spreading across endless heather moorlands. It's a sunlit coastline and a road weaving ahead of you through open land. It's the little villages, where time has stopped.

Ireland's landscape has its own unique way to pull you in. And I can't wait for you to see more of what we are creating."

Radek - Junior Map Designer

"I have been working at SCS for a year and a half now. My first project was the Benelux rework, where I gained valuable experience that I put to good use as I started working on the Ireland DLC. As part of the team, I focus on vegetation and on helping the map feel as authentic and true to real references as possible. I am very excited to be part of this, as it feels like a long-missing piece of the Europe map. Ireland’s landscapes and colour palette will enrich the overall map with their lush, green, vegetation-rich environment."

Dimi - Junior Map Designer

"Hi, my name is Dimi, and ever since I was younger, I dreamed of creating video games in some sort of artistic way, so here I am! I became part of the SCS team about a year ago, and since then, I have participated in two of our upcoming projects. I took a small part in the creation of Benelux Rework and now Ireland, which I’ve really taken a liking to.

My favourite landmarks I had the pleasure of creating are the Giant's Causeway, together with its surroundings and Ben Bulben, which appeared in our teaser. After spending my time observing various locations, I have fallen in love with the landscapes and nature of Ireland, and I am more than happy to be a part of its creation. I will do my best to recreate that beauty in our game, hoping it will bring you the same happiness it has brought me along the way.

Bíodh lá maith agaibh!"

Jirka - Junior Map Designer

"Hi, my name is Jirka. I have been working at SCS for over a year and a half, and I really enjoy it here. I previously participated in the Benelux project, and now I am working on Ireland with the same great team of inspiring colleagues. I think that you will enjoy the diverse landscape full of beautiful views and diverse paths that beautifully reflect the character of the landscape, just like I do."

Tereza - Junior Map Designer

"Hello, I've recently celebrated two years at SCS. I started working on Germany and continued on Benelux. I'm still fixing bugs in Benelux for you, but I'll be moving to Ireland soon. While working on the flat environments of the Netherlands rework, I was also helping out on the Nordic Horizons DLC, where there were lots of beautiful landscapes.

I've already had a look at what awaits me, and it seems cosy. No more big highways and complicated junctions, just cities and roads. I have to say that left-hand traffic was a problem for me at first, but I quickly got used to it.

What I like most about Ireland are the colour-coded sheep. I just love them! Irish people, tell me, wouldn't it be cheaper to tag them on their ears, like we do in the Czech Republic? Just kidding, you make the world more colourful. Thanks."

That’s it for today’s blog! We’d like to thank everybody for sharing a little about themselves and their work on the Isle of Ireland. It’s always a pleasure to give our community a glimpse behind the scenes and introduce the talented people who help shape our projects.

We look forward to sharing more news and previews from the Isle of Ireland in the future, so be sure to keep an eye on the blog for upcoming updates. Don’t forget to add the expansion to your Steam Wishlist and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, and Bluesky, and subscribe to our newsletter. Until next time, safe travels!

Introducing the Isle of Ireland

Today, we’re thrilled to announce a new upcoming map expansion coming to Euro Truck Simulator 2! May the road rise up to meet you as our teams set out to bring this long-awaited expansion to life behind the wheel. From lively cities to winding country lanes, we are thrilled to announce... 

The Isle Ireland for Euro Truck Simulator 2

Carved by rugged coastlines, endless green pastures, and a history that stretches back thousands of years, Ireland is a place where every road feels like a story waiting to be told. In this upcoming expansion, you will be able to explore both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, each offering its own distinct landscapes and atmosphere.

Drivers will be able to tackle narrow routes lined with stone walls and hedgerows, travel on untamed coastal stretches battered by the Atlantic winds, and roll through small villages and towns steeped in charm and tradition. From the energetic streets of Dublin and Belfast to the peaceful rhythm of the countryside, making a delivery without pausing to admire the view will be a challenge in itself!

Along the way, you’ll encounter some of Ireland’s most recognisable landmarks including the Rock of Cashel rising proudly above the Golden Vale, the dramatic slopes of Ben Bulben overlooking Sligo, the unmistakable Samson and Goliath cranes dominating Belfast’s skyline, and of course the world-famous basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway.

Haul through farmland, cross windswept landscapes where folklore feels close at hand, and navigate into vibrant city centres where modern life and centuries of history stand side by side. Ferry ports such as Rosslare will also play an important role, opening the way to connections across the Irish Sea and beyond.

We can't wait to show you more as development continues, but please keep in mind, that everything shown so far is still very much a work in progress, with more details and previews to come as development continues.

We hope this first glimpse of Ireland has sparked your excitement! Don’t forget to add the expansion to your Steam Wishlist, it really helps us along the way and ensures you won’t miss the release. Until then, we look forward to sharing more from the roads where céad míle fáilte, awaits every driver.