Farming Simulator 19‘s E3 presentation included a CGI trailer, a firsthand look at the changes this new installment is bringing, and the knowledge that we’ll be getting dogs when it comes. Focus Home Interactive showed off one of three new maps available in the simulator, fittingly set in an American farm in honor of E3. Interaction with fans of the long-running series has shown that Farming Simulator is a relaxing experience for everyone from casual to hardcore gamers, and next entry aims to embrace that.
The biggest thing emphasized at Farming Simulator‘s E3 look was the major update in graphics. The game is made with Giants Software’s own engine, and number 19 in the series will have high dynamic range rendering, refined depth of field (making a more realistic-looking 3D view of the game’s world), color grading and tone mapping. FS 19‘s American map was the example for these graphic updates, and it boasted a broad, denser map with a reactive environment and changeable weather. Even the clouds got an update; formerly a flat image, the sky is now filled with 3D clouds that change shape and color over time. Essentially, the game’s developers are trying to make this experience more immersive than ever.
To expand on that goal, wildlife is being added to the environment as well. We’ll see birds and other animals populating the world, to bring a natural experience in the game. Plants are reactive, and in FS 19‘s demo we saw them bend over and slowly spring back when driven over with a tractor.
Mechanics are another part of the game getting an update, as new ways of making a money and running a profitable farm are being implemented. Players will be able to own and ride horses, grow two new types of crop (cotton and oats), and start logging—either selling cut logs or wood chips for income. The game will, like predecessors, support multiplayer; you’ll be able to form teams of up to 16 on PC and Mac. Giants additionally went over mod support, which will be part of FS 19, and they expect a number of mods to be ready for immediate use when the game launches, as some modders will have access to the necessary info before the game’s release.
The last piece of big news out of FS 19 was its partnership with the John Deere brand of farming vehicles. The popular brand has been the most requested addition by fans, and we got a look at the classic green and yellow John Deere tractor in-game during FS 19‘s presentation.
Take a look at the game’s fresh CGI trailer here:
Farming Simulator 19 will be available in fall 2018 on PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC/Mac.