Hey Truckers!
As a real-life truck driver since 2017, I'm always striving for the most realistic experience possible in my virtual trucking adventures in American Truck Simulator and Euro Truck Simulator 2. That's why I've been meticulously fine-tuning my Logitech G29 setup, and I've stumbled upon something that dramatically improved my driving experience: "Inverted and Centered" axis mode for the pedals!
This setting, combined with the right calibration and Logitech Profiler adjustments, brings the in-game pedal feel much closer to the real-world throttle and brake response I'm accustomed to on the road. If you've been struggling to get that authentic feedback, especially with the brake and clutch, you're not alone. After countless hours of tweaking, I've found that simply switching to "Inverted and Centered" in the game's control settings made a world of difference.
Here's why this works and how to set it up:
The Problem with "Inverted": When you just "invert" the pedals, you're essentially telling the game that the pedal is "on" when it's physically released and "off" when it's pressed. This can lead to a very touchy response, especially with the brake, making it hard to apply smooth, gradual pressure.
"Inverted and Centered" Explained: This mode not only inverts the pedal axis but also centers the neutral position. This means the game recognizes the pedal as being in a resting state when it's released, with the full range of motion available for both positive and negative values. This translates to a much more natural and progressive response.
Calibration is Key:
Important: I've noticed that after a PC power cycle, the controller calibration in American Truck Simulator (and Euro Truck Simulator 2) can sometimes be reset. To ensure proper feedback and accurate control, I strongly recommend recalibrating your controller every time you start the game after a power cycle.
My Calibration Method:
From the game's control menu, I begin by clicking the "Clutch Axis" menu button.
I then fully depress the clutch pedal to the floorboard of the pedal base.
I repeat this process for the brake and accelerator pedals, fully depressing each one.
Next, I select the wheel axis button and turn the wheel fully to the left, then fully to the right, and then return it to the center position.
Important Note: You'll notice that during this calibration process, the pedals will automatically switch to the "inverted" setting. This is normal! Do not change the settings yet. Wait until you have completely calibrated all three pedals before switching them to the "inverted and centered" setting.
Note: While I use a Logitech G29, this calibration method should likely apply to most wheel brands and models. The general principle of fully depressing each pedal and turning the wheel to its limits is universal.
My G29 Settings Section:
ATS/ETS2 Control Settings:
Clutch Axis: Inverted and Centered
Brake Axis: Inverted and Centered
Accelerator Axis: Inverted and Centered
Ensure to calibrate your pedals as described above after setting the axis mode.
Important Note Regarding Physics Mods: These pedal settings are independent of recommended settings provided by physics mods, such as those by Zeemods or Serial Black. Players should always follow the installation and game control settings advised by those mod authors. However, in my personal experience, ensuring that your pedals are set to "inverted and centered" will yield the best and most consistent pedal response in-game, even when utilizing physics mods.
My Physics Mod: I personally use Zeemod's Physics mod, which enhances the realism of the game's physics engine, including the suspension, transmission, and steering. In particular, I utilize his controls configuration file edit, which modifies the in-game acceleration pedal response for a smoother and more progressive feel. This complements the "inverted and centered" setting, further enhancing the realism of the pedals.
Logitech Profiler (or G Hub):
Overall Strength: (Your preference, I personally use around 70-80%)
Spring Effect Strength: (I use around 10-15% for a subtle return to center feel)
Damper Effect Strength: (I use around 0-5%, I prefer very little damper)
Centering Spring in Force Feedback Games: Unchecked.
Degrees of Rotation: 900 Degrees.
Sensitivity Slider Adjustments:
The sensitivity slider in the Logitech Profiler has three distinct ranges affecting pedal response:
Linear (50%): Leaving the slider at 50% provides a 1:1 linear output, meaning the pedal input directly corresponds to the in-game response.
Sport (51-100%): Adjusting the slider between 51% and 100% increases sensitivity, resulting in a more responsive pedal. This is ideal for quicker reactions and more aggressive driving.
Cruise (0-49%): Setting the slider between 0% and 49% reduces sensitivity, leading to a less responsive pedal. This allows for finer control and smoother, more gradual adjustments.
This information is sourced directly from the help icon within the Logitech Profiler, which activates when you click on the slider for adjustment.
Based on my personal experience, I have found that setting all sensitivity sliders for each pedal (clutch, brake, and accelerator) to 50% provides the most consistent and realistic feel for both American Truck Simulator and Euro Truck Simulator 2. This linear response allows for precise control and a more immersive driving experience.
Deadzone Settings: I'm still experimenting with optimal deadzone settings for the pedals. For now, I recommend either leaving these settings at 0, following any recommendations provided by your physics mods, or adjusting them to your own preference. I'll be sure to share my findings and recommendations on deadzones in a future update.
Logitech Profiler (or G Hub):
Overall Strength: (Your preference, I personally use around 70-80%)
Spring Effect Strength: (I use around 10-15% for a subtle return to center feel)
Damper Effect Strength: (I use around 0-5%, I prefer very little damper)
Centering Spring in Force Feedback Games: Unchecked.
Degrees of Rotation: 900 Degrees.
Sensitivity Slider Adjustments:
The sensitivity slider in the Logitech Profiler has three distinct ranges affecting pedal response:
Linear (50%): Leaving the slider at 50% provides a 1:1 linear output, meaning the pedal input directly corresponds to the in-game response.
Sport (51-100%): Adjusting the slider between 51% and 100% increases sensitivity, resulting in a more responsive pedal. This is ideal for quicker reactions and more aggressive driving.
Cruise (0-49%): Setting the slider between 0% and 49% reduces sensitivity, leading to a less responsive pedal. This allows for finer control and smoother, more gradual adjustments.
This information is sourced directly from the help icon within the Logitech Profiler, which activates when you click on the slider for adjustment.
Based on my personal experience, I have found that setting all sensitivity sliders for each pedal (clutch, brake, and accelerator) to 50% provides the most consistent and realistic feel for both American Truck Simulator and Euro Truck Simulator 2. This linear response allows for precise control and a more immersive driving experience.
Deadzone Settings: I'm still experimenting with optimal deadzone settings for the pedals. For now, I recommend either leaving these settings at 0, following any recommendations provided by your physics mods, or adjusting them to your own preference. I'll be sure to share my findings and recommendations on deadzones in a future update.
The Result: With these settings, I've noticed a significant improvement in pedal control. Braking is now much more precise, allowing for smooth stops and controlled speed adjustments. The clutch feels more natural, making gear changes smoother and more realistic.
Why I'm Sharing This:
I know how frustrating it can be to wrestle with controller settings. I've spent countless hours experimenting to find what works best, and I'm excited to share my findings with you! I hope this helps you enjoy American Truck Simulator and Euro Truck Simulator 2 even more.
For my Patrons:
I'll be posting a video demonstration of these settings in action, along with a more detailed walkthrough of my Logitech Profiler/G Hub settings.
I'm also open to answering any questions you have and providing personalized support to help you dial in your setup.
Thank you for your support! Your patronage allows me to continue exploring and sharing tips and tricks to enhance our ATS/ETS2 experience.
Happy trucking!
-Busy
busy_and_broke
2025-03-02 00:25:38 +0000 UTCFabiaccio
2025-03-01 22:50:30 +0000 UTC