Peoria Unveiled: Our Take on Illinois’ Riverfront Gem in American Truck Simulator

Hey there, truckers! It’s time to hit the virtual roads of Illinois, and today we’re diving into the latest scoop from SCS Software about one of the standout cities in their upcoming Illinois DLC for American Truck Simulator—Peoria! As a fan of SCS Software’s work, I’m thrilled to break down what they’ve shared about this riverfront gem and why it’s shaping up to be a must-visit stop on your cross-country hauls. So, grab a coffee, settle into the driver’s seat, and let’s explore what makes Peoria special in this exciting new expansion.

SCS Software recently dropped a blog post giving us a sneak peek at Peoria, a city that’s not just another dot on the map but a vibrant hub with a rich industrial legacy and a unique Midwest charm. Nestled along the banks of the Illinois River, Peoria is the eighth-largest city in Illinois, and SCS has gone all-in to capture its essence. From its industrial roots to its scenic waterfront, they’re crafting a version of Peoria that feels alive and true to its real-world counterpart, all while keeping it perfectly scaled for American Truck Simulator.

One of the coolest things SCS highlighted is Peoria’s deep connection to heavy industry. The city has a storied history with one of the world’s biggest names in construction and mining equipment—think massive bulldozers and earth-movers. While that company’s global HQ may have moved on, its legacy still looms large in Peoria, with depots, facilities, and even a visitor center that’s a local landmark. In-game, this translates to a variety of industrial depots where you’ll be dropping off and picking up loads, making Peoria a key stop for any trucker hauling heavy-duty cargo. It’s the kind of detail that makes you feel like you’re part of the city’s economic heartbeat.

The Illinois River is another star of the show. SCS has leaned into Peoria’s identity as a river city by including a custom river port depot, which sounds like a fantastic addition for logistics fans. Whether you’re hauling goods to or from the port, the riverfront setting promises some gorgeous views to make those long drives even more memorable. I can already picture cruising along with the water sparkling beside me—SCS knows how to make those moments feel special.

While the full scope of downtown Peoria is a bit too big for the game’s map scale, SCS hasn’t skimped on the landmarks. They’ve brought in some iconic spots like hospitals, bridges, and the striking Twin Towers Place, a residential complex that’s a standout in Peoria’s skyline. These details might catch your eye as you roll through, giving the city a recognizable vibe even if you’re just passing by on your way to the next delivery. It’s all about that balance of realism and gameplay that SCS nails so well.

On the road front, SCS has mapped out Peoria’s connections with precision. You’ll be navigating Interstate 74, which links Peoria to Bloomington and other parts of Illinois, as well as U.S. Route 24. These routes make Peoria a natural hub for truckers crisscrossing the state, ensuring it’s not just a pretty backdrop but a functional part of your journey. Whether you’re hauling construction equipment or something else entirely, these roads will keep you busy and immersed in the Midwest’s trucking network.

What I love about SCS Software’s approach here is how they’re blending Peoria’s industrial grit with its scenic beauty. It’s not just about driving from point A to point B—it’s about feeling like you’re part of a living, breathing world. The Illinois DLC is shaping up to be another love letter to the American landscape, and Peoria sounds like a highlight that’ll stick with players long after they’ve parked their rig.

If you’re as pumped as I am about exploring Peoria in American Truck Simulator, make sure to add the Illinois DLC to your Steam Wishlist to stay in the loop. And for more updates, screenshots, and all things trucking, follow me over at my socials: Arrow’s Realm on Linktree. Until next time, keep your wheels rolling and your cargo secure—see you on the roads of Illinois!