The Ultimate Guide to Euro Truck Simulator 2 Map Combos: Load Orders and Compatibility

Euro Truck Simulator 2 (ETS2) offers a vast and immersive trucking experience across Europe. But for many players, the standard map is just the beginning. The ETS2 modding community has created an incredible array of map expansions, adding new countries, cities, and challenging roads to explore. Combining these map mods can create a truly global trucking adventure, but it also requires careful planning and understanding of load orders.

This guide, originally inspired by the work of community members like Vinnie Terranova, is your comprehensive resource for building and managing Euro Truck Simulator 2 Map combos. We’ll delve into load orders, compatibility, essential game settings, and troubleshooting, ensuring you spend more time driving and less time dealing with crashes.

Understanding ETS2 Map Load Orders

Think of a load order as the blueprint for how ETS2 reads and integrates your mods, especially map expansions. When you activate multiple map mods, the game needs to know in which order to load them. Incorrect load orders are a primary cause of conflicts, crashes, and missing map sections.

This guide provides a meticulously crafted “global map combo” load order, designed to work with a wide range of popular map mods. We’ll break down the general principles of load orders and then present a detailed, ready-to-use list.

Why Load Orders Matter

Imagine building with LEGOs. If you don’t follow the instructions or place pieces in the wrong sequence, your creation might be unstable or incomplete. ETS2 map mods are similar. They often modify the same game files, and the order in which they are loaded dictates which modifications take precedence.

A correct load order ensures:

• Map Compatibility: Prevents conflicts between mods that alter the same areas or game files.
• Stable Gameplay: Reduces crashes and game errors caused by mod clashes.
• Seamless Integration: Ensures smooth transitions between different map areas, without gaps or glitches.
• Full Map Coverage: Allows all map mods in your combo to function correctly and appear in the game world.

Essential Game Setup for Large Map Combos

Before diving into load orders, it’s crucial to optimize your ETS2 game settings for handling large map combinations. These adjustments are essential for stability and performance, especially when running numerous mods.

1. Adjusting the config.cfg File

The config.cfg file controls various ETS2 settings. Increasing the buffer page size can significantly improve stability with large mod setups.

• Locate config.cfg: Find this file in your Documents folder under Euro Truck Simulator 2.
• Edit r_buffer_page_size: Open config.cfg with a text editor (like Notepad) and find the line:

uset r_buffer_page_size "10"

• Increase the Value: Change the value to at least “30”, or even “50” for very large combos. A recommended setting is:

uset r_buffer_page_size "30"

• Save Changes: Save the modified config.cfg file.

2. Optimizing Launch Options in Steam

ETS2 launch options in Steam allow you to customize how the game starts. Setting memory pool sizes and other parameters can boost performance and stability, particularly with memory-intensive map mods.

• Access Launch Options: In Steam, right-click on “Euro Truck Simulator 2” in your Library, and select “Properties.” In the “General” tab, find “Launch Options.”

• Set Launch Options based on RAM: Choose the appropriate launch options based on your computer’s RAM:

  • 8GB RAM:

    -64bit -nointro -unlimitedlog -rdevice dx11 -mm_pool_size 4096 -mm_max_tmp_buffers_size 1000

  • 16GB RAM:

    -64bit -nointro -unlimitedlog -rdevice dx11 -mm_pool_size 8192 -mm_max_tmp_buffers_size 1000

  • 32GB RAM:

    -64bit -nointro -unlimitedlog -rdevice dx11 -mm_pool_size 16384 -mm_max_tmp_buffers_size 1000

  • Explanation of Options:

    • -64bit: Forces the game to run in 64-bit mode (essential for large mods).
    • -nointro: Skips the intro videos for faster loading.
    • -unlimitedlog: Creates a complete game.log.txt file, vital for troubleshooting.
    • -rdevice dx11: Specifies DirectX 11 for rendering (generally best performance).
    • -mm_pool_size XXXX: Sets the memory pool size (adjust based on RAM).
    • -mm_max_tmp_buffers_size 1000: Sets the maximum temporary buffer size.

General ETS2 Load Order Structure

While specific map combos have their own load orders, a general structure applies to most ETS2 mod setups. This structure helps organize your mods logically and minimize conflicts.

General Load Order Categories (Top to Bottom):

1. Backgrounds: Mods that change the background map (like world map images).
2. Sounds: Audio enhancements and replacements.
3. Graphics / Weather: Visual improvements, weather effects, lighting mods.
4. Physics: Realistic physics adjustments.
5. Tuning Parts: Truck customization parts and accessories.
6. AI Mods / Traffic: Changes to AI behavior and traffic density.
7. Skins: Truck and trailer paint jobs.
8. Trailers: New trailer models and cargo types.
9. Trucks: New truck models.
10. Maps: Map expansions and related fixes.

Note: Within the “Maps” category, the specific order of map mods is crucial and will be detailed in the “Global Map Combo” section.

Global Map Combo Load Order (ETS2 v1.53 Example)

This section provides a detailed load order for a massive “global map combo” designed for Euro Truck Simulator 2 version 1.53 (This load order might need adjustments for newer versions, always check for updates). This combo aims to integrate a vast number of map mods seamlessly.

Load Order (Top to Bottom):

- The World Background Map ETS2 - Def (1.7) (The World Background Map ETS2 - Def)
- The World Background Map ETS2 - Base (1.8) (The World Background Map ETS2 - Base)
- Jerry's Original Loading Screen Mod (ETS2) (1.53-1.0) (jerry.original_loading_screen_mod.ets2)
- Ferry Collection for ETS2 v2023.01.24 (v2023.01.24) (Ferry_Collection_for_ETS2_v2023.01.24)
- Misc Prefab & Models Updates (1.53-1.1) (gmc.misc.prefab.updates)
- FLD Prefab Corners Fix (1.53-1.0) (gmc.fld.prefab_corners_fix)
- Bengan's Swedish Islands Map (1.53-1.1) (jerry.bengans_swedish_islands_map)
- Bulgaria in Focus Off the Grid Fix (1.53-1.0) (gmc.bulgaria_in_focus.otgr.fix)
- Bulgaria in Focus (1.30a) (bginfocus-all-v1.30a)
- West Balkans Path-breaker’s Direction (WBPD) Map Mod (3.8) (wbpd_addon_map_main)
- Szpakowo - PL Rebuild ADDON (1.0) (Szpakowo)
- PROMODS-SRmap Road Connection (v1.1) (PromodsSRMAP-RC)
- HybridPlus2v2 (4.5) (HybridPlus2)
- ROEX45SR13 RC (4.5) (ROEX45SR13)
- ROEX ENcity names (4.5) (ROEXeng45)
- RoexGreeceDLC (4.5) (ROEXGreece)
- RoexPack1 (4.5) (F45RoexPACK1)
- RoexPack2 (4.5) (F45RoexPACK2)
- RoexPack3 (4.5) (F45RoexPACK3)
- RoexPack4 (4.5) (F45RoexPACK4)
- ROmedia45 (4.5) (RO45Media)
- Kirov Map 1.6 - ROS RC (1.6) (Kirov Map 1.6 - ROS RC)
- KirovMap Fix (1.53-1.0) (gmc.kirovmap.fix)
- KirovMap 1.6 free (1.53) (KirovMap_16free)
- Russian Maps RC+FIXv0.7 (0.7) (Russian Maps RC+FIXv0.7)
- Sibir Map - Russian Open Spaces RC (1.2) (Sibir Map - ROS RC)
- Russian open Spaces - Off the Grid Russia RC (1.0) (Russian open spaces - Off The Grid Russia RC)
- Russian_open_spaces (13.3) (Russian_open_spaces_v13.3)
- RusMap Fix (1.53-1.0) (gmc.rusmap.fix)
- RusMap_Def (2.51) (RusMap_Def)
- RusMap_Map (2.51) (RusMap_Map)
- RusMap_Models (2.51) (RusMap_Models)
- Project Lofoten () (ProjectLofoten)
- North Map - ProMods Merge (1.2) (North Map - Promods Merge)
- Santiago de Compostela añadido (9.0) (santiago9)
- Kiel-Bremerhaven_RC_for_PM_2.73 (0.2) (Kiel-Bremerhavenv0.2 - Add-on for ProModsv2.73 [1.53])
- ProMods Addon - Emden (V7) (7) (pm_emden_v7)
- Latvia rebuild v1.28 for PM 2.73 (1.28) (latvia-rebuild-v1_28-for-PM-v2_73.scs)
- Tours (Map Add-on) (1.0.2) (Tours map add-on v1.0.2)
- Pays de la Loire Extended (0.8) (pdlextended 0.8)
- Bourges Updated (1.0.2) (Bourges Updated (map addon) v1.0.2)
- Peyrat-le-Château (1.0.0) (Peyrat-le-Château Map Addon v1.0)
- Poland Rebulding - DE City Definitions fix (1.0) (PR_DE_city_fix)
- DE City Definition for Promods (4.5) (de_city_definitions_promods_v4.5)
- Discover Schweiz (Sud de France compatible) (v1.1) (Discover Schweiz(Sud de France Compatible))
- Sud de France Fix (1.53-1.0) (gmc.sud_de_france.fix)
- Sud de France (1.9.5b) ([v1.9.5b]_Sud_de_France_by_Charly)
- Isle Of Colonsay V1.0.1 (1.0.1) (Isle Of Colonsay)
- SFIGC - Promods Addon (0.6.2) (SFIGC - ProMods Addon)
- The Cold North Map (1.4) (sweden)
- Großwilfersdorf Map Add-on (1.0) (Großwilfersdorf_addon_promods)
- More Swiss Towns (v1.0.3) (more-swiss-towns-map)
- El-Enclaves and Balearic Islands 0.4b ( ProMods Addon ) (v1.50) (elenclavebel150f)
- PmBarcelona EXP (1.2) (PmBarcelonaExp)
- Portugal Rebuild Fix (1.53-1.1) (gmc.portugal.rebuild.fix)
- Portugal Rebuild v 0.1.4.2 (0.1.4.2) (Portugal Rebuild 0.1.4.2)
- Ireland Map FIX (1.3) (Ireland Map FIX)
- Ireland Map 0.1.1 (0.1.1) (Ireland Map 0.1.1)
- Rröfte Kosova Fix (1.53-1.0) (gmc.rrofte_kosova.fix)
- Rröfte Kosova - West Balkans Improvements (0.3) (Rrofte_Kosova)
- Senj Map Add-on (1.0) (senj_map_addon)
- silesia (1.6.2) (silesia_PR_162_fix1)
- Poland Rebuilding Fix (1.53-1.0) (gmc.poland_rebuilding.fix)
- Poland Rebuilding - Def (2.5.11 (rev. 177)) (z1_PL_Rebuilding_2.5.11_def)
- Poland Rebuilding - Map (2.5.11 (rev. 177)) (z2_PL_Rebuilding_2.5.11_map)
- Poland Rebuilding - Models (2.5.11 (rev. 177)) (z3_PL_Rebuilding_2.5.11_models)
- Poland Rebuilding - Assets (2.5.11 (rev. 177)) (z4_PL_Rebuilding_2.5.11_assets)
- Iberia Map RW FIX (1.1) (Iberia Map RW FIX)
- Iberia Map RW PM v1.3.0a (1.3.0a) (addon_promods_ib_rw_153_v1.3.0a)
- Red Sea Map + Beyond - ProMods Middle-East Road Connection (1.53-1.1) (gmc.red_sea_map.beyond.pmme.rc)
- Project Palestine v1.5 (1.5) (ProjectPalestine)
- ProMods FIX (1.8-2.73a) (promods-fix-v273a)
- ProMods Middle-East Add-on (Def & Map Package) (2.73) (promods-me-defmap-v273)
- ProMods Middle-East Add-on (Assets Package) (2.73) (promods-me-assets-v273)
- ProMods DLC Support Package (2.73a) (promods-dlcsupport-v273a)
- ProMods Definition Package (2.73a) (promods-def-v273a)
- ProMods Map Package (2.73a) (promods-map-v273a)
- ProMods Media Package (2.73a) (promods-media-v273a)
- ProMods Models Package 1 (2.73a) (promods-model1-v273a)
- ProMods Models Package 2 (2.73a) (promods-model2-v273a)
- ProMods Models Package 3 (2.73a) (promods-model3-v273a)
- ProMods Assets Package (2.73a) (promods-assets-v273a)
- Trans-Siberia Off the Grid RC (1.6) (Trans-Siberia Off the Grid RC)
- Trans-Siberia Beyond RC (1.6) (Trans-Siberia_Beyond_RC)
- Trans-Siberia Sibirmap RC (1.5) (Trans-Siberia SibirMap RC)
- Trans-Siberian Truckway Fix (1.53-1.0) (gmc.trans-siberian_truckway.fix)
- Trans-Siberian Truckway (1.6) (Trans-Siberian-Truckway)
- Beyond - Road into Wilderness Fix (1.53-1.0) (gmc.beyond.riw.fix)
- RIW to Beyond RC (1.9) (RIWBEYONDRC_1.9)
- Road Into Wilderness Fix (1.53-1.1) (gmc.road_into_wilderness.fix)
- RIW 1.9 (1.9) (RIW 1.9)
- RIW models (1.9) (RIW MODELS 1.9)
- PM TGS 1.2.2-Beyond 3 RC (0.4) (PM TGS 1.2.2-Beyond 3.0 RCv0.4)
- ProMods The Great Steppe Beyond Fix (1.53-1.0) (gmc.pm_tgs.beyond.fix)
- Beyond - Africa Extended Fix (1.53-1.0) (gmc.beyond.africa_extended.fix)
- Beyond Fix (1.53-1.1) (gmc.beyond.fix)
- Beyond by TerraMaps 1 (3.0) (Beyond_by_TerraMaps_1)
- Beyond by TerraMaps 2 (3.0) (Beyond_by_TerraMaps_2)
- Beyond by TerraMaps 3 (3.0) (Beyond_by_TerraMaps_3)
- Beyond by TerraMaps 4 (3.0) (Beyond_by_TerraMaps_4)
- Beyond by TerraMaps 5 (3.0) (Beyond_by_TerraMaps_5)
- Africa Extended (1.2) (africa_extended)
- VolgaMap Fix (1.53-1.0) (gmc.volgamap.fix)
- VolgaMap 1.5.2 (1.5.2) (VolgaMap_1_5_2)
- Altai Map Fix (1.53-1.3) (gmc.altai_map.fix)
- Altai Map (1.6.2) (altai_map)
- Off the Grid Fix (1.53-1.0) (gmc.off_the_grid.fix)
- Off the Grid - Def/Map (2.3) (otgr_defmap)
- Off the Grid - Assets/Models (2.3) (otgr_assets)
- [SRmap] Novorossiysk Port Improved (1.0) (SR_Novorossiysk_Port_Improved)
- SRmap Fix (1.53-1.2) (gmc.srmap.fix)
- SRmap v.13.0 (13.0) (SRmod_v13)
- The Great Steppe - Sibirmap Fix (1.4) (TGS Sibirmap Fix)
- SibirMap 2.0 Fix (1.53-1.0) (gmc.sibirmap_2.0.fix)
- SibirMap 2.9.2 (2.9.2) (sibirmap292)
- ProMods The Great Steppe Fix (1.53-1.0) (gmc.promods_the_great_steppe.fix)
- ProMods The Great Steppe (Def & Map Package) (1.2.2) (promods-tgs-defmap-v122)
- ProMods The Great Steppe (Assets Package) (1.2.2) (promods-tgs-assets-v122)
- Java Road Revolution (JRR) Def & Map (0.8) (JRR_Def&Map[1.52])
- Java Road Revolution (JRR) Assets & Models 1 (0.8) (JRR_Assets&Models1)
- Java Road Revolution (JRR) Assets & Models 2 (0.8) (JRR_Assets&Models2)
- North Map (1.8) (North Map 1.8)

Important Notes on this Load Order:

• Mod Sources: This load order assumes you obtain mods from reputable sources like the SCS Forums, ProMods Forums, RoExtended Forums, TruckyMods.io, TerraMaps Download Center, and VK (for Russian maps). Avoid third-party “mod hosting” sites.
• Version Compatibility: This specific load order is designed for ETS2 version 1.53. Ensure you are using compatible versions of all listed mods. Mod versions are indicated in parentheses where available.
• Customization: You can remove specific map mods (and their corresponding road connections/fixes) if you want a smaller map combo, focusing on particular regions.
• Eurasia Combo: For a smaller “Eurasia” focused combo, remove all map mods not related to Europe.

Known Issues and Troubleshooting

Even with a correct load order, issues can sometimes arise. Here are some known issues related to the provided global map combo and general troubleshooting tips:

Known Issues (as of the original article’s date):

• Szpakowo – PL Rebuild ADDON: May display version 0.1 in the Mod Manager even if you have version 1.0. This is a visual issue, not functional.
• Latvia Rebuild: Requires the ETS2 Greece DLC. Omit this map if you don’t have the DLC.
• Senj Map Add-on: May display version 1.0 in the Mod Manager even if you have version 1.1. Visual issue only.
• Rröfte Kosova – West Balkans Improvements: May display version 0.3 in Mod Manager when version 0.3.1 is installed. Visual issue only.
• ProMods FIX (1.8-2.73a): Breaks the Eindhoven garage in ProMods.
• Beyond by TerraMaps 1: Contains broken barriers in Dalian (an issue with the map itself, not the combo). Performance issues reported in Seoul with this map, even without other mods.
• VolgaMap: Missing roads near Ufa? Ensure you download VolgaMap from the official source (linked in the original article).

General Troubleshooting Steps:

1. Disable Other Mods: If you encounter problems, temporarily disable all mods except the map combo mods listed in the load order. Trucks, trailers, UI mods, etc., can sometimes cause conflicts.
2. Verify Mod Versions: Double-check that you have the correct versions of all map mods listed in the load order. Outdated or incompatible versions are a common source of errors.
3. Check game.log.txt: A complete game.log.txt file is essential for diagnosing issues. Ensure you have -unlimitedlog set in your launch options. Upload the game.log.txt to a site like Pastebin and share the link when seeking help.
4. Isolate the Problem: If you suspect a specific map mod is causing issues, try removing it from the combo to see if the problem persists.
5. Seek Community Help: The ETS2 modding community is vast and helpful. Forums (like the SCS Forums and ProMods Forums) are excellent places to ask for assistance, providing your game.log.txt and details about your issue.

Alternative Background Maps

The default load order uses “The World Background Map ETS2,” which is geographically accurate. However, you can switch to the “ProMods Complete Afroeurasia Background Map” if you prefer its style.

To switch to the ProMods Background Map:

1. Remove:

   • The World Background Map ETS2 - Def (1.7)
   • The World Background Map ETS2 - Base (1.8)

2. Add (and place at the top of the load order where the removed mods were):

   • Scale Hack Disable (2.0)
   • ProMods Complete Afroeurasia Background Map (2.5)

Important: Some map mods, like Java Road Revolution (JRR), may have different versions depending on which background map you use. Ensure you use the JRR version compatible with your chosen background map.

Customizing “The World Background Map ETS2”

“The World Background Map ETS2 – Def” mod is unlocked, allowing you to customize it. One useful tweak is adjusting the zoom level on the Quick Job and Freight Market maps. This can be helpful in densely mapped areas.

To Adjust Zoom Level:

1. Open the Def File: Open The World Background Map ETS2 - Def (1.7) with an archive tool (like 7-Zip or WinRAR).
2. Edit zoom_uplift.sui: Navigate to /def/map_data/zoom_uplift.sui and open it with a text editor.
3. Change zoom_uplift[7]: Modify the value of zoom_uplift[7] to a smaller number. 30000.0 is a suggested value.

zoom_uplift[7]: 30000.0

4. Save Changes: Save the modified zoom_uplift.sui file back into the archive.

Note: Changing zoom_uplift[7] affects how far you can zoom out on the World Map. This is a limitation of the game’s map system. Always back up your modified The World Background Map ETS2 - Def file before updating the mod.

Incompatible Map Mods (Outdated List – Needs Verification)

Disclaimer: This list of incompatible map mods might be outdated and needs to be verified for newer ETS2 versions and mod updates. Always check for the latest compatibility information from mod authors and community resources.

Potentially Incompatible Maps (as listed in the original article):

• Belgorod Map (Eastern russia map): Integrated into RusMap.
• Berlin Rework: Reported CTD in Berlin.
• Bulgaria Reworked: Incompatible with RoExtended; broken roads in Spain.
• Carpathian: Incompatible with RoExtended.
• Caucasus Expansion: Incompatible with Project Caucasus and RoExtended.
• Derry to Larne Road: Incompatible with Northern Ireland Rebuild.
• Dobrudja Map: Incompatible with RoExtended.
• EAA: Incompatible.
• Eastern russia map (Belgorod Map): Integrated into RusMap.
• ETS2 Romania Advanced Freeway Map: Incompatible with RoExtended.
• EuRoadNet: Incompatible with ProMods.
• Geestacht addon (Hamburg Rework): Incompatible with ProMods.
• House in Italy: Incompatible with Itarevamp.
• Italy Map Project: Incompatible with RoExtended.
• Lithuania Rework: Broken roads near Vilnius.
• MedMap: Incompatible with Itarevamp.
• Pecz Rebuild: Incompatible with Project Balkans.
• Poland Detail Adding: Incompatible with ProMods and Poland Rebuilding.
• Poludniowa Polska: Incompatible with RoExtended.
• Project Cesko: Incompatible with ProMods.
• RO-Rebuild: Incompatible with RoExtended.
• Sea of Azov: Stand-alone map.
• SouthEast Asia: Newer versions may not load; v0.1 might work with issues.
• Tekirdag Rebuilt Map: Incompatible with RoExtended.
• TR Extended Map: Incompatible with RoExtended.
• UK Rebuild Project: Incompatible with ProMods.
• Ukraine Expansion: Incompatible with RoExtended.
• Vilnius Rework: Incompatible with Promods–RusMap Road Connection and FullHybridRC.
• Vistula Lagoon: Incompatible with Poland Rebuilding.
• Viva Malta: Incompatible with ProMods.

Untested Maps (as of the original article):

• Australia Tasmania
• YOM Map

Conclusion

Creating a massive Euro Truck Simulator 2 map combo can significantly expand your trucking horizons. By understanding load orders, optimizing your game settings, and using resources like this guide, you can build a stable and immersive world to explore. Remember to always verify mod compatibility, check for updates, and engage with the ETS2 modding community for the best experience. Happy trucking across the globe!