Amsterdam Benelux Rework: A Fresh Look at the Dutch Capital

Amsterdam is best known for its iconic canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cycling culture. It is one of the Netherlands’ most recognisable and visited cities. Today, the team at SCS Software is excited to share a closer look at the work of the talented Benelux Rework team. As they bring this famous destination up to modern DLC standards with improved detail, updated road networks, and refreshed landmarks.

A City Rebuilt from the Ground Up

Dating back to the 12th century as a small fishing settlement on the Amstel River. Amsterdam grew into one of the most important trading hubs of the world during the Dutch Golden Age. Its famous canal ring, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Was constructed in the 17th century and remains one of the city’s defining features. Today, Amsterdam is a modern European capital, blending historic charm with contemporary infrastructure. The team aimed to reflect this throughout the Amsterdam Benelux Rework.

So what work has taken place? Amsterdam has been completely rebuilt from the ground up. Recreating such a dense and iconic destination was no small task, especially within the limits of the game’s scale. Through careful decisions, the team preserved Amsterdam’s unique character and looks. The team believes they have done an excellent job.

The A10 Zuid Ring Road Challenge

One of the more unique challenges the team encountered was surrounding part of the A10 Zuid ring road, located south of Amsterdam. In real life, this section is currently being moved into an underground tunnel as part of an ongoing infrastructure project. However, during the research trip at the beginning of the Benelux rework, the highway was still above ground. This led to an important decision: whether to recreate the real-world layout as experienced. Or attempt to represent a future version that is not yet complete.

After careful consideration, the team chose to keep the highway above ground. This allowed work with real-world references while also creating a unique driving experience. It gives players the opportunity to travel through one of the few places in Europe where highways pass beneath towering skyscrapers. Offering a memorable and visually striking perspective of the city.

Landmarks and Architecture

As with most reworks, rebuilding the city from the ground up gave the team the opportunity to introduce new landmarks and bring older ones up to date with newer modelling standards. While it will not be possible to travel through the historic inner city itself, the team has carefully selected locations and viewpoints that best represent Amsterdam. The Amsterdam Benelux Rework focuses on capturing the essence of this world-famous destination.

The team would also like to give a special thanks to the asset team, whose work on the city’s landmarks and architecture has played a huge role in bringing Amsterdam to life. Their attention to detail helps make each location feel authentic and memorable.

IJmuiden Ferry Terminal Refresh

Not far from Amsterdam lies the coastal town of IJmuiden, home to an important ferry connection between the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. As part of the Benelux rework, this location has also been revisited and refreshed.

While IJmuiden was already present in the original map as a landmark ferry location, it has now been updated to better match the quality and detail of the surrounding reworked areas. Although the scale of changes here is not as extensive as what you will find in Amsterdam, you will certainly notice some big changes.

The ferry terminal continues to serve as a key gateway for drivers travelling between mainland Europe and the UK, offering an important connection for long-distance routes. Its updated design aims to provide a more immersive experience while maintaining its recognisable identity. The team hopes this connection will be used a lot more often with the arrival of the UK rework in the future.

Interestingly, this location became a personal favourite for one of the two map designers who worked on it, thanks to its unique atmosphere and role within the wider transport network.

More to Come from Benelux

The team looks forward to sharing more news on the Benelux Rework, which will arrive as a free update for all Euro Truck Simulator 2 owners in the future. For more on the rework, check out our previous Groningen preview and rest areas overview.

Until then, follow SCS Software on official social media channels to stay up to date with the latest news, even while on the move. Until next time, keep on truckin’.