1.39 is fantastic for modded single-player or older multiplayer servers. But if you want Iberia, Convoy, or new trucks, you’ll need 1.40+.
You can keep multiple versions of ETS2 by:
Fix: Turn Mirror Quality to Low and Shadow Texture Size to Medium. 1.39 is optimized, but city assets from mods still tax the CPU.
Fix: Version 1.39 requires Iberia DLC to be deactivated if you are using an older save. Go to Steam > Manage DLC > Uncheck Iberia until you start a new profile.
If you want, I can:
The Enduring Appeal of the Open Road: Analyzing the "Euro Truck Simulator 2 Version 1.39" Phenomenon
In the landscape of modern video games, where trends often shift toward fast-paced action and competitive shooters, the success of Euro Truck Simulator 2 (ETS2) stands as a unique anomaly. Developed by SCS Software, the game offers a meditative experience centered on the logistics of hauling cargo across a digital recreation of Europe. While the game is frequently updated with new features and map expansions, there is a distinct subset of the player base that actively searches for specific older versions. The search query "download Euro Truck Simulator 2 1.39 best" highlights a fascinating aspect of software culture: the desire to curate and preserve a specific "golden era" of a continuously evolving game.
To understand the demand for version 1.39, one must first understand the philosophy of the game’s developer. SCS Software has supported ETS2 for over a decade, releasing free updates that overhaul the lighting engine, improve map detail, and add truck models. However, these updates often come with a cost to system performance and mod compatibility. Version 1.39, released in late 2020, is often cited by enthusiasts as a "sweet spot" in the game’s development lifecycle. It represented a mature stage where the game looked polished and ran smoothly, but prior to the introduction of newer, more demanding lighting updates that would arrive in versions 1.40 and beyond. For players running older hardware, version 1.39 represents a stable, highly optimized iteration of the game that delivers the core experience without the performance penalties of the latest updates.
Furthermore, the specific request for version 1.39 is heavily tied to the game’s vibrant modding community. ETS2 boasts a massive library of user-created content, ranging from new truck accessories to total map overhauls that add countries like the Balkans or the Middle East. Major game updates often break the compatibility of these mods, rendering them unusable until the mod creators update their files—a process that can take months or may never happen if the creator has moved on. Consequently, many players refuse to update their game, preferring to stay on version 1.39 because it supports a specific library of mods that they consider essential to their enjoyment. In this context, the player is not refusing progress; rather, they are curating a personalized version of the game that the current update cycle has left behind.
However, the search for "best" download sources raises the critical issue of digital safety and software ownership. Finding legitimate download links for specific older versions of a game can be technically challenging. On legitimate platforms like Steam, accessing older versions (known as "betas") is a feature built directly into the client, allowing owners to legally revert their game to previous patches. However, users searching for standalone installers on third-party websites often expose themselves to significant cybersecurity risks. "Cracked" or repackaged versions of older games are common vectors for malware, ransomware, and trojans. The pursuit of a "best" experience—a smooth-running game with favorite mods installed—can lead to a compromised computer if one strays from official channels.
Ultimately, the interest in Euro Truck Simulator 2 version 1.39 is a testament to the complexity of modern software service. It illustrates that "newer" is not always "better" for every user. For some, the ideal experience is defined by stability, specific mod compatibility, and hardware optimization, rather than the latest official features. As games continue to evolve as live services, the desire to revert to versions like 1.39 underscores the importance of user choice and the preservation of gaming history, reminding us that the best version of a game is the one that provides the most enjoyment to the player.
To download Euro Truck Simulator 2 (ETS2) version 1.39, you typically need to use the "beta" branch feature on
. Although the current game version is significantly newer (v1.58 as of February 2026), many players revert to 1.39 to maintain compatibility with specific legacy mods or older map versions like ProMods 2.51. How to Access Version 1.39 download euro truck simulator 2 139 best
If you already own the game on Steam, follow these steps to download the 1.39 version: Open Steam Library : Right-click on Euro Truck Simulator 2 Select Properties : Go to the Choose Version : From the dropdown menu, select temporary_1_39 - 1.39.x for incompatible mods Wait for Download
: Steam will automatically begin downloading the files for that specific version. Key Features of the 1.39 Update
Version 1.39 introduced several major overhauls that changed the gameplay experience: Euro Truck Simulator 2 Version history
Euro Truck Simulator 2 (ETS2) version 1.39 is a popular "legacy" version often sought by players for its stability with specific mods and major features like ownable low-bed trailers and the Calais city reskin. How to Download ETS2 1.39
If you own the game on Steam, you can "downgrade" to version 1.39 using the platform's built-in beta branches. This is the only official and safe way to access older versions.
Open Steam Library: Find Euro Truck Simulator 2 in your list.
Access Properties: Right-click the game title and select Properties. Navigate to Betas: Click the Betas tab on the left menu.
Select Version: From the "Beta Participation" dropdown, choose temporary_1_39 - 1.39 for incompatible mods.
Download: Steam will automatically begin downloading the required files to revert your game to 1.39.
Note: Your current save profiles from newer versions (like 1.50+) will likely not work in 1.39. It is recommended to create a new profile or use a backup from when you last played 1.39. Best Features of Version 1.39
Low-bed & Low-loader Trailers: Introduced as fully ownable and customizable trailers, allowing you to use them for various heavy cargo jobs.
Calais Reskin: A major overhaul of the port and city of Calais in France, making it larger and more realistic. The Enduring Appeal of the Open Road: Analyzing
Redesigned Launchpad: The main menu interface was updated to allow players to adjust game settings and manage profiles before even loading into the map.
Sound Improvements: Added a Turbo slider in the options menu, giving players control over the intensity of the turbo whistle sound. Best 1.39 Mods for Realism
?'s about reverting to older version/profiles - SCS Software
Update 1.39 for Euro Truck Simulator 2 (ETS2) is widely regarded by players as one of the most substantial technical and content-focused updates in the game's history, primarily for its overhaul of heavy-haul mechanics and a complete redesign of the Calais port. While newer versions like 1.46 have since improved lighting and visuals, 1.39 remains a benchmark for the series' "Quality of Life" and simulation depth. Core Update Features
The 1.39 update introduced several transformative changes to the base game:
Port of Calais Reskin: The iconic port was completely rebuilt from the ground up to more accurately reflect its real-world scale, featuring new terminals, ferry ramps, and a redesigned city entrance.
Ownable Lowbed & Low-Loader Trailers: For the first time, players could purchase and fully customize lowbed trailers, including chassis adjustments and a vast array of accessories like beacons, ramps, and toolboxes.
Redesigned Launchpad: The initial game menu was overhauled to include a Game Options tab, allowing players to tweak graphical and audio settings without loading the full game engine.
Audio Refinement: A dedicated Turbo Sound Slider was added to the options menu, giving players granular control over turbo whistle levels based on community feedback. Community Perspectives
Players often highlight that version 1.39 struck a perfect balance between realism and mod compatibility.
“Most of the loads on the extended trailers are illegal and make no sense. It's sad that SCS didn't put more effort into the cargo, and just copied the cargo from the shorter setup. The trailers are great, but the cargo is disappointing.” SCS Software · 5 years ago
“Promods is basically mandatory as it makes the base map so much better also adds Iceland, Faroe Islands, and Cyprus.” Reddit · r/trucksim · 5 years ago Best 1.39 Mods for Immersion improve map detail
To get the "best" experience out of version 1.39, the community highly recommends the following categories of mods:
Euro Truck Simulator 2 (ETS2) version 1.39, released on November 3, 2020, remains a highly sought-after version for players seeking specific mod compatibility or a stable simulation experience. This update introduced major technical overhauls, including a complete redesign of the City of Calais and the introduction of ownable low-bed and low-loader trailers. Key Features of ETS2 1.39
Calais Reskin: The port entrance and surrounding city areas were redesigned to better reflect reality.
Low-bed and Low-loader Trailers: These were reworked from the ground up, allowing players to purchase, customize, and use them for various high-power and heavy cargo jobs.
Sound Improvements: This version introduced a Turbo sound slider in the options menu, giving players control over the whistling intensity of truck turbos.
Redesigned Launchpad: The start-up interface was modernized to accommodate future game expansions. How to Download and Access Version 1.39
To ensure a safe and legitimate experience, players should use the official Steam client. If you need to revert to 1.39 from a newer version (like 1.40 or higher) for mod compatibility, follow these steps: Open your Steam Library.
Right-click on Euro Truck Simulator 2 and select Properties. Go to the Betas tab.
Select temporary_1_39 - 1.39.x for incompatible mods from the dropdown menu.
Steam will automatically download the necessary files to "downgrade" your version. Best Mods for 1.39
Many players stick with 1.39 to use specific map and realism mods that may not have been updated for later lighting system changes. ETS2 1.39 Update Release - SCS Software's blog