SCS Software published an Under the Hood article about reimagining legacy assets for Euro Truck Simulator 2 and American Truck Simulator. The project focuses on older models that no longer match the visual quality and optimization standards of newer map and DLC content.
What SCS confirmed
The article centers on two SCS artists, Pavel C and Robert P. They describe a long-running asset refresh effort that rebuilds aging models, improves performance and keeps older areas visually consistent with newer ETS2 and ATS content.
How the work is done
The team starts by reviewing existing models, deciding what can be reused, gathering real-world references and then recreating assets with better detail, geometry, textures and LODs. SCS mentions Autodesk Maya, ZBrush, Marmoset Toolbag, Adobe Substance tools and Photoshop as part of the workflow.
Why it matters
The work affects everyday objects such as hay bales, pallets, depots and other assets used across the game world. Better legacy assets help new DLCs, reworked map areas and older regions feel more consistent without pushing hardware requirements too far.