ETS2 Coaches Passenger Satisfaction: A New Driving Challenge

The upcoming Coaches DLC for Euro Truck Simulator 2 shifts the focus from cargo to people, introducing a brand-new Passenger Satisfaction system. This game mechanic adds a fresh layer of challenge, requiring drivers to prioritize a smooth and comfortable ride.

Behind the Design: An Interview with Game Designer Vojtěch P.

To understand the vision behind Passenger Satisfaction, we spoke with game designer Vojtěch P., the lead developer for this feature. He shared his journey from graphic design and animation to his current role at SCS Software, where he has influenced projects like the Gallery redesign, Photo Trophies, and the Driving Academy.

“I work as a game designer here at SCS Software, and I enjoy my job to an almost unhealthy degree. Above all, I appreciate being able to significantly influence the shape of the game, not only visually but also in terms of game mechanics.”

How Passenger Satisfaction Works in ETS2 Coaches

“Passenger satisfaction is a concept players may already be familiar with,” Vojtěch explains. “You can find it in other game titles, including our own previous game, Bus Driver.” The core principle is straightforward: drivers are rewarded for smooth driving while avoiding harsh braking, sharp turns, and traffic violations.

Disclaimer: Everything shown and discussed in this post is a work in progress and may not reflect the final release version.

Individual Passengers, Unique Personalities

The system calculates satisfaction for each passenger individually. “Some hardly care what happens, while others take even mild braking very personally,” Vojtěch says. “Passengers also board the bus with varying moods, so the challenge for the player is to improve their mood by the next stop.”

The primary goal is to improve passenger moods as much as possible through smooth driving. A perfect drive between stops grants a bonus added to the overall Passenger Satisfaction score.

Balancing the Challenge: Satisfaction vs. The Clock

Driving with passengers introduces a unique tension. “The player must stay alert and anticipate much more. Having to keep to the timetable and at the same time drive carefully are two things that naturally work against each other,” Vojtěch notes.

Internal testing has been crucial for balancing the ETS2 Coaches Passenger Satisfaction system. The team increased the difficulty, making satisfaction gains and losses more pronounced. They also changed the system so that satisfaction now increases based on distance driven rather than elapsed time, creating a fairer experience.

Designing a Clear and Intuitive User Interface

Presenting information without cluttering the screen is a key design challenge. “It’s important how satisfaction is displayed both while driving, at stops, and after the journey,” Vojtěch emphasizes. The team aims to show passengers as individual people with distinct moods, not just as an abstract progress bar.

Future Possibilities for Passenger Satisfaction

While no features are guaranteed for release, Vojtěch has ideas for expanding the system. These could include passengers requesting temperature adjustments (heating or air conditioning) or making unscheduled emergency stop requests, adding another layer of dynamic challenge to the Passenger Satisfaction system.

The Road Ahead for ETS2 Coaches

With a significant number of players already having wishlisted the DLC, the development team feels a strong sense of responsibility. “I’m both thrilled and slightly terrified,” Vojtěch shares. “And I do feel strong support across the team in our shared goal not to disappoint players.”

This deep dive into the ETS2 Coaches Passenger Satisfaction system offers a glimpse into the thoughtful design behind this new module. If you’re excited to take on this new challenge, add the Coaches DLC to your Steam Wishlist to support its development. Stay tuned for more updates, and until next time, drive safe!