The California Rework project is a challenging task that we have been working on for quite a while, and despite the hard work and dedication that is required, we haven’t had the opportunity to mention the unsung heroes that are part of the dedicated team.
We hope you will enjoy this small presentation of the SCS map designers that are currently working on Phase 3 of California Rework and their short messages to you, the #BestCommunityEver.
Janek (current leader of the project)
I took over the California Rework from Mrazík, and it's my very first project as the Map DLC Lead, but certainly not the first project I've worked on. You can see my work in the DLCs for Idaho, Wyoming, Montana, and also in the upcoming DLC for Oklahoma.
My main goal in the California Rework project is to capture the atmosphere of all areas in California as best as possible and to ensure the best comfort for the team so that we can deliver California to you just as you have always wanted.
Tereza
I work at SCS as a Junior Map Designer, and as well as working on California Rework I have also been involved in the creation of the Oklahoma DLC. In Phase 3 of California, I particularly enjoy the vast plains, almond fields, and farms. Players can look forward to a new and polished California coat, which I personally find to be the most exciting.
Tomáš
I worked on the second phase of the California Rework, where I created US-80 with Donner Pass and Truckee. I also helped to finish some other locations and contributed to bug fixing. Currently, I'm working on Stockton and US-50, which have a similar mountainous scenery to Donner Pass.
Juraj
When I joined SCS two and a half years ago, we started working on the second phase of the California rework. In the meantime, I also helped with other map DLCs. Working on the third phase of the rework is the most interesting for me so far because I got the opportunity to focus on cities and industrial areas, which I enjoy the most. I am convinced that players will also love this new part of the map as they can look forward to seeing many new landmark structures and areas.
Margo
The California Rework is the first project I am a part of as a Junior Map Designer. What I enjoy the most about the Rework is the great creative freedom I have in influencing, uplifting, and transforming each location, resulting in more interesting places to discover!
Martin
My first task at SCS was designing a simple country road for the Utah DLC almost 4 years ago. I've come a long way since then, working on several DLCs in between, and taking on challenging tasks like El Paso, Texas. California has a distinct summery vibe in our game compared to other states. You can feel the presence of the Pacific Ocean nearby, and our original map captured that well. The rework receives the same quality treatment as a brand new DLC, with a much-improved and denser road network, many new landmarks, and the newly included city of Modesto, of which I happen to be the author.
Hoang
I have been involved in the rework from the very beginning, I believe we started with three people. During my time at SCS, I have also worked on creating a few roads for Montana and Texas. Currently, I enjoy working on smaller historical settlements with an organic structures. I find the American contrast between regular concrete jungles and organic development, such as in Santa Cruz, fascinating. Players can expect a lot of detailed content and beautifully designed cities and landscapes.
Bartłomiej
I'm simply trying to do everything I can to make my region look as good as possible. That includes taking advantage of the skills and knowledge I gained before joining SCS Software while working on my own map project for American Truck Simulator. I think many players will appreciate the new feel of California.
Roman
Since joining SCS, working on the third phase of the California Rework is my first experience with map design on this scale. I am grateful for my experienced colleagues who guide me on this journey of improvement and discovery. It's been very exciting to witness the growth of the new and improved California, and I think there is a lot to be excited about.
Františka
I have been working as a map designer on California for two years now and have also been involved in the previous phase. Currently, I enjoy working on various diverse coastal roads. Players can definitely look forward to plenty of new stunning ocean views.
Pavel
I have been with SCS for almost a year, and the California rework is the first project I have worked on. I hope the players will enjoy exploring the revamped familiar locations of this iconic state.
Honorable mention - Mrázik (previous team lead)
The ongoing effort to rebuild California to meet modern quality standards has entered its third phase, with a clear objective in mind: to introduce an impressive upgrade to the content that every player of ATS can navigate, and enjoy. So far, I firmly believe that the team has successfully captured the very essence of Californian trucking, architecture, and culture, and I eagerly anticipate the release of the final product in the game.
While I am no longer part of the mapping team, having witnessed Janek's potential, I gladly entrusted him with the role of the new Map DLC Lead as he shares similar values and possesses the ability to motivate and inspire the team in ways better than I ever could, along with brimming with the energy required to bring to a great finish what the team and I have started.
We really hope you’ve enjoyed this slight detour from our usual map-related blog posts. The team is doing their best to provide you with an amazing experience and we can’t wait to show you some more of what they’ve been working on in the future. Until then, keep your eyes on the blog or follow us on social media (Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok) for any new updates.