A few weeks ago, several members of our team took part in an Iceland research trip. Their mission was to gather essential reference materials for the upcoming DLC. Let’s delve into their experiences during this exciting journey!
The Team Behind the Adventure
The team who traveled to Iceland included Ivo, the map DLC lead, alongside designers Ashley and Johana. They were also joined by colleagues from the marketing department. This marked their first opportunity to join a research trip and document the entire adventure. Consequently, there will be a detailed SCS On The Road episode in the near future featuring this trip.
“Experiencing Iceland firsthand was amazing! It allowed us to immerse ourselves in the landscape, something digital sources cannot replicate. Getting to know the locations we work on was fascinating, as it felt like discovering a place we knew well, despite being there for the first time,” says Ivo.
Captivating Landscapes
Upon arriving, the team quickly recognized landmarks they had previously seen in-game. Ashley shared, “Witnessing Iceland’s breathtaking views was incredible. The mountains were so grand and diverse, making it sometimes hard to comprehend. One of my fondest memories was during a rest stop, where we had the chance to explore a footpath amid towering peaks, truly connecting with nature.”
Gathering Inspiration
Even though development on this map expansion is further along, this trip was invaluable for collecting missing references and deepening their understanding of the Land of Fire and Ice.
Johana added, “The beauty of this island amazed everyone. While you get a good idea of the landscape from online searches, being there in person is a different experience. The sheer scale of some mountains and waterfalls left us in awe.”
Traveling Across Diverse Terrain
The team covered significant ground during their week-long visit. They journeyed the entire western half of the Ring Road, from Lake Mývatn to Vík, stopping at unique places for research and inspiration.
They encountered a variety of stunning sights, including lofty mountains, fjords, lava fields, and numerous small waterfalls. Each stop presented new landscapes to explore, particularly in areas like Akureyri and Reykjavík. Ivo noted that every location offered unusual sights compared to their usual experiences.
They also had to adjust to Iceland’s near-constant daylight with the sun setting for less than three hours a day. Ivo shared, “Back home, we don’t see the sun at midnight, which made it challenging to sleep. However, this extra time allowed us to maximize our exploration.”
Grateful for Partnerships
The team expressed gratitude to Volvo Trucks for their support during the trip. They filmed videos with the company, providing unique insights into truck operation. Ivo commented, “The experience of riding with a professional truck driver gave us a new perspective on the landscape.”
The insights gained from this trip have allowed the team to enhance their work on the map expansion, comparing their real-world experiences to the virtual landscapes. Ashley mentioned, “It felt familiar to what we have in-game; as if I had stepped into the game itself.”
If players want to experience the beauty of Iceland, don’t forget to check out the DLC to add it to your wishlist!
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