My Summer Car: A Deep Dive into the Latest Updates and Current Player Base
Since its initial release, My Summer Car has captivated simulation enthusiasts with its unique blend of car-building mechanics, survival elements, and Finnish countryside charm. Developed by Amistech Games, this indie title has grown into a cult classic, offering players an unparalleled experience of assembling, tuning, and racing a car from scratch while managing everyday life’s challenges.
As of now, My Summer Car maintains a steady average player count of 2,899, a testament to its enduring appeal despite being in development for several years. The game’s community remains active, eagerly anticipating new content and improvements from the developer. Recent updates have brought significant changes, refining gameplay mechanics and edging the game closer to its final release stage.
Update Spotlight: 29.05.2020 – Nearing the Finish Line
The update released on May 29, 2020, marked a pivotal moment in the development of My Summer Car. This patch was announced as one of the last major changelogs, signaling that the game is moving towards its final stages. While smaller updates and bug fixes will continue, the focus is shifting towards polishing the experience and addressing lingering issues.
One of the most exciting hints dropped in this update was the confirmation that work has begun on the snowy sequel, My Winter Car. This upcoming title promises to build on the original’s foundation, introducing new challenges and environments, likely centered around the harsh Finnish winter.
The update itself was packed with a variety of fixes and new features. Players were advised to prepare for significant changes and to re-adjust their game settings, as the patch reset many configurations. Here are some of the key highlights:
- Bug Fixes: Several bugs were addressed, including issues with characters Suski and Jokke entering the player’s car simultaneously, incorrect dyno horsepower measurements, and bugs affecting the car mirror images.
- Rally Improvements: The rally event was split into two separate cups-Junior Cup and Amateur Cup-each offering different challenges and prize structures. Additionally, a used engine parts seller was added to the Rally Parc Ferme area, available during rally weekends.
- Vehicle Adjustments: The Satsuma received a high-rev performance tweak (still a work in progress), and its suspension and electric system saw multiple fixes. Bumpers and the original grille can now be spray painted, adding more customization options.
- Tractor and Truck Updates: The tractor’s engine start and shutdown procedures were adjusted for better realism, and its parking brake is now applied by default. Engine behavior for both the tractor and truck was tuned to prevent high-revving, reflecting real-world mechanics more accurately. The attached state of the tractor trailer is now saved, enhancing gameplay continuity.
- Gameplay Enhancements: The hangover mechanic was overhauled, with hangovers now best treated by drinking alcohol, and the hangover status is saved between sessions. Teimo’s Sausage & Potatoes, a staple food item, was upgraded to “superfood” status, helping players maintain positive weight control.
- Miscellaneous: Hubcaps can now be freely installed on any steel wheel, including widened versions, and the tractor’s interior light was added in an earlier update but remains a notable feature for immersion.
Overall, this update was a comprehensive effort to refine the core gameplay loop, fix persistent bugs, and add quality-of-life improvements. It also laid the groundwork for future content, both in terms of the original game’s final polish and the upcoming sequel.
Previous Update Recap: 23.12.2019 – Festive Additions and New Features
The December 2019 update brought a festive spirit to My Summer Car, along with several new gameplay features. One of the standout additions was the introduction of drag racing with AI drivers, expanding the game’s motorsport activities beyond rally racing. This allowed players to test their car-building skills in new competitive scenarios.
Other notable features included:
- Fleetari Repair Shop Improvements: A dynamometer was added, enabling players to measure their car’s horsepower more accurately. Additionally, a tool cart was introduced, streamlining the repair process.
- New Vehicle Parts: The update added a linelock feature to the Ferndale, activated via the “Boost” button, enhancing drifting and burnout capabilities. Side skirts were added to the fiberglass body kit, and exhaust dual tips became available in the parts magazine.
- Vehicle Lighting and Accessories: Interior lights were added to the tractor, rear working lights to the truck, and a car antenna set was introduced to filter out radio static noise, improving the in-game radio experience.
- Gameplay Tweaks: Fuel calculations for several vehicles were adjusted for better realism, and an amusing fix was made to prevent house pee stains from appearing when not urinating at home.
- Holiday Event: Players were encouraged to visit the Fleetari repair shop between December 24 and 26 to receive a generous 75% discount on services, adding a festive incentive to engage with the game during the holiday season.
This update demonstrated the developer’s commitment to expanding the game’s depth and realism while also injecting humor and seasonal charm.
Community and Future Prospects
With a current average player count hovering around 2,899, My Summer Car continues to enjoy a dedicated player base. The combination of detailed vehicle mechanics, survival elements, and quirky Finnish culture creates a unique niche that few other games occupy. The developer’s steady stream of updates, even as the game approaches its final form, keeps the community engaged and excited.
Looking forward, the announcement of My Winter Car has generated considerable buzz. Fans are eager to see how the sequel will expand on the original’s formula, especially with the added challenge of winter driving and maintenance. Meanwhile, My Summer Car itself is expected to receive further polish and minor content additions, ensuring a satisfying experience for both new and returning players.
Conclusion
My Summer Car stands as a remarkable example of indie game development, offering a deeply immersive and challenging simulation that rewards patience and attention to detail. The recent updates from late 2019 and mid-2020 have significantly enhanced the game’s mechanics, fixed longstanding bugs, and set the stage for future content.
Whether you’re a seasoned player perfecting your Satsuma build or a newcomer curious about Finnish car culture, My Summer Car offers a rich, quirky, and rewarding experience. With its final stages of development underway and a promising sequel on the horizon, now is an excellent time to dive into this unique automotive adventure.