|best| Download Euro Truck Simulator 2 1.38 -

While the game has since moved on to newer versions (currently well beyond 1.50+), version 1.38 holds a special place in the game's history. Released in late 2020, it represented a massive technical leap forward for the engine, introducing graphical features that fundamentally changed how the game looks and feels.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the update, its features, and the context of downloading it today.

Why Version 1.38? A Look Back at the Landmark Update

Before you click the download button, it is crucial to understand what makes version 1.38 worth the effort. Released in the summer of 2020, this update was a turning point for ETS2. Download Euro Truck Simulator 2 1.38

Step-by-Step Guide: Download Euro Truck Simulator 2 1.38 via Steam

Follow these instructions precisely to download and install version 1.38.

Problem 4: Steam Won't Show the 1.38 Beta

Cause: You may have a temporary bug or need to restart Steam. Fix: While the game has since moved on to

Exit Steam completely (File → Exit).
Restart Steam and check the Betas tab again. The option should appear.
If not, ensure your game is fully updated to the latest public version before downgrading.

1. Light System Overhaul

Perhaps the most significant change in 1.38 was the complete rewrite of the lighting system. SCS Software moved to a newer version of the game engine, which allowed for:

Realistic Lighting: A dramatic shift in how sunlight, streetlights, and headlights interact with the environment.
Better Night Driving: Nights became darker and more immersive, forcing players to rely more realistically on their high beams.
Improved Shadows: Enhanced shadow resolution provided a greater sense of depth and realism to the cabins and the landscape.

The Unofficial Method (Torrents & Cracked Sites)

Sites claiming to offer a free download of ETS2 1.38 are likely distributing cracked versions. Why Version 1

Pros: No upfront cost (illegal). Cons: High risk of malware, keyloggers, and cryptocurrency miners. No multiplayer. Buggy performance. No tech support. We strongly advise against this. If you cannot afford the game, wait for a Steam sale—it is discounted heavily every few months.

Recommendation: Stick to the official Steam method. It is clean, simple, and supports the developers.

Important: Buying the Base Game

To download version 1.38, you must own the base game. You can purchase Euro Truck Simulator 2 officially via:

Steam Store (Recommended)
SCS Software Official Shop

Note: Version 1.38 is compatible with all DLCs released up until July 2020 (including Road to the Black Sea, but NOT Iberia which came after). If you try to load a save using Iberia DLC in 1.38, the map will crash.