Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at how we’re building the upcoming South Dakota map expansion for . We spoke with one of our map designers, Evgeny, to learn more about his role and creative process.

When asked what a map designer contributes to an ATS expansion, Evgeny offered a concise overview of his responsibilities.

“I began on South Dakota with a broad set of duties. Beyond the core map tasks — laying out roads, sculpting terrain, and building towns — I handle several specialized areas. I design large industrial complexes and depots, maintain the asset inventory, and provide feedback on depot-related and other non-vegetation assets. I also craft environments and small vignette scenes for depots across multiple projects.”

Map design is inherently collaborative. Team members exchange references, debate approaches, and align on a shared vision. “We’re always pushing toward the same aim: create something that’s visually compelling, authentic, and enjoyable to drive through,” Evgeny explains.

Extensive research precedes the design phase to ensure the in-game map reflects real-world character. Some team members even took a field trip to South Dakota, returning with thousands of photographs, observations, and stories to inform the project.

Our research department compiled rich layers of cultural, industrial, and historical data that inform decisions across the map. Evgeny also pursues his own research: following local news, reading pieces by South Dakotans, and engaging with community conversations to better understand the region’s values and daily life.

“The landscape captivated me — the stillness, the vast plains, the uninterrupted horizons,” Evgeny says. “It brought to mind Jon Krakauer’s Into the Wild. I admire how Indigenous heritage and classic Western elements coexist here, and how many farms remain family-run. Those human details are crucial to capturing the region’s spirit.”

These research layers let the team infuse the map with authentic color and character. “As an artist I try to capture the soul of a place: its distinct textures, landmarks, and little quirks that make South Dakota feel true to life,” Evgeny shared.

The South Dakota team draws on prior experience from the Texas, Nebraska, and Iowa DLCs, which helps when building believable, richly detailed environments.

Asked about standout locations, Evgeny singled out the Black Hills and the Badlands. “Players who enjoy sweeping vistas and a strong Western atmosphere will love those areas. South Dakota’s open fields stretch to the horizon in a way we haven’t fully represented in ATS before. I’m especially excited to recreate Sioux Falls and the small towns surrounding the Black Hills.”

Not every detail makes it into the final map simply due to scale and scope. “We do our best to present the region authentically and engagingly,” Evgeny notes. “For players who love exploration, there are a few hidden routes to discover.”

He also highlights some of the practical constraints the team navigates: balancing fidelity with development time, optimizing the level of detail for performance, and preserving a sense of scale so the world feels expansive. “Limitations often spark creativity, leading us to smarter, more evocative solutions,” he adds.

Evgeny leaves a message for the community: “It’s an honor to help portray the beauty and idiosyncrasies of American landscapes and culture. South Dakota carries a particular atmosphere, and we hope players sense the same wonder that guided our work.”

If this preview has sparked your interest, remember to .

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Until next time — happy haulin’!