Download Euro Truck: Simulator 2 Version 1.40
Yes, unequivocally.
Unless you rely on a legacy graphics mod that will never update, Euro Truck Simulator 2 Version 1.40 is the definitive way to play. The new lighting system breathes so much life into a game that is nearly a decade old that it feels like a sequel. The roads are more atmospheric, the nights are genuinely dark and moody, and the world finally reacts to light in a realistic way.
Downloading 1.40 is effortless via Steam. Back up your mods, click update, and prepare to rediscover the beauty of European trucking.
Note: specific patch notes vary by release region and platform; the items below summarize the principal changes typically associated with the 1.40 milestone.
Physics and vehicle handling tweaks
Cargo and economy updates
Map, roads and environment
Graphical and audio updates
Multiplayer and compatibility groundwork
Modding and SDK-related changes
Bug fixes and stability
(These areas reflect the kinds of changes a 1.40 milestone typically delivered; consult official patch notes for a precise line-by-line list.)
Once the download is complete (regardless of method), installation is straightforward:
If you want to play ETS2—specifically to experience the era of Version 1.40—here is the legitimate way to do it.
1. Buy the Base Game Purchase the game legally from a reputable source. It goes on sale on Steam very frequently (often for under $10 / €10). You can also buy it from the official SCS Software store or Humble Bundle.
2. Use Steam Beta Branches to go back to 1.40 SCS Software is very modder-friendly and keeps old major builds available in Steam. Once you own the game, you can legally roll your game back to exactly Version 1.40. Here is how: Download Euro Truck Simulator 2 Version 1.40
3. Why is 1.40 considered a "Proper Story" era? If you are looking for 1.40 specifically, you are likely a veteran of the game or a modder. Version 1.40 (released in mid-2021) is highly romanticized in the ETS2 community for a few distinct reasons:
If you want to relive the golden era of Iberia and the 1.40 lighting engine, buying the game on sale and using the Steam Beta branch is the safest, highest-quality way to do it. You'll get a clean install, no viruses, and perfect compatibility with the 1.40 mods archived on sites like ETS2.lt or the SCS Forum.
Sometimes, SCS keeps older stable versions available as opt-in betas. If you missed the initial automatic update or want a clean install of 1.40:
While 1.40’s stock graphics are excellent, these mods fine-tune the LOD (Level of Detail) and add sharper textures that specifically target the new lighting system.
