Perhaps the most notable, albeit visually focused, update is the massive increase in road types. Previously, the game featured only a handful of road variants. The v2024.10.17b update (as listed in previous patch notes for the test branch) increased this from 4 to 12. While currently described as "just visual," these new road textures significantly improve the aesthetic variety of the desert landscape, making the never-ending journey feel slightly less repetitive. 2. Enhanced Graphics and Fixes The update addresses several immersion-breaking bugs:
Mismatched tires affect handling. Overloading your vehicle with heavy junk will drastically reduce your fuel efficiency. 2. Managing Liquids
The ability to save and load specific vehicles from different save files via the Developer Menu. Technical Status : Currently exclusive to the branches on platforms like Compatibility The Long Drive v2024.10.17b
Previous versions were famous for "kraken" physics, where a slightly misplaced item in the trunk could cause your car to violently flip or launch into the stratosphere. The v2024.10.17b update improves object collision matrices. Loose items inside the cabin or trunk now rattle realistically without generating phantom forces that destabilize the chassis. 2. Multi-Fluid Tank Logic Fixes
If you are returning after a short break, recent versions (like ) also introduced: Perhaps the most notable, albeit visually focused, update
Weak weapons that previously couldn't break bulbs were corrected.
The radio is your primary companion. Beyond the bizarre music tracks, pay attention to the eerie broadcasts that add depth to the game's mysterious lore. The Verdict While currently described as "just visual," these new
Furthermore, the expansion to 12 road types, while subtle, is crucial for a game where the visual monotony of the desert is the player's primary antagonist. Breaking up that monotony with more varied roads helps re-engage the player's sense of discovery and contributes to the game's core feeling of being on an unpredictable journey.
For players who own The Long Drive on Steam and wish to participate in testing the v2024.10.17b update, the installation process is straightforward:
For now, represents a stable, enjoyable milestone. It polishes the core desert-driving loop without adding unnecessary bloat.