How to Fix American Truck Simulator VR feature not working

American Truck Simulator (ATS) is renowned for its immersive VR experience, making players feel genuinely behind the wheel of a massive truck. However, the recent 1.55 update has introduced significant challenges for many VR users, forcing them back to traditional flat-screen gameplay. This shift is primarily due to fundamental changes in how the game handles VR output after this major patch.

Why the VR Feature is Not Working for Many Players After the 1.55 Update

The core reason for these widespread VR issues in ATS version 1.55 stems from SCS Software's decision to integrate a new OpenXR-based VR system, completely replacing the previous beta VR branch. While this move aims to bring benefits like asynchronous loading and performance improvements, it has, unfortunately, led to a host of bugs and compatibility problems. Many existing VR setups and common tools, such as Virtual Desktop and SteamVR, are encountering difficulties adapting to this new OpenXR implementation.Players have reported issues ranging from graphical glitches (light strings flashing, jittering, tearing) to outright crashes to desktop when attempting to launch or play in VR. The transition to OpenXR, while forward-looking, has created friction with established VR environments.

How to Fix VR Issues in American Truck Simulator (ATS)

While a definitive, universal fix might still be pending from SCS Software, users and developers have identified several workarounds that have shown success.

1. Utilize Specific Steam Launch Commands

Many players on Steam have found that specific launch commands can help American Truck Simulator launch correctly in VR, especially when working with OpenXR.Steps to set launch options in Steam:

Open your Steam Library.

Right-click on "American Truck Simulator."

Select "Properties."

In the "General" tab, locate the "Launch Options" textbox.

Add the following command: -openxr -experimental_vr -nointro

• -openxr: Explicitly tells the game to use the OpenXR runtime.
• -experimental_vr: Activates experimental VR features.
• -nointro: Skips the introductory videos, potentially speeding up the launch.

Close the Properties window and start the game.

Note on Oculus headsets: Some users with Oculus headsets have reported success with -oculus as a launch parameter, even if OpenXR is the new default. Experimentation might be needed. If you are using Virtual Desktop, some users found success setting Virtual Desktop to "Auto" instead of "Steam VR only".

2. Consider Rolling Back SteamVR (Specific Issue)

Some players have reported that newer updates to SteamVR itself can cause crashes when ATS uses OpenXR. If you're experiencing immediate crashes upon entering the cab in VR,consider reverting your SteamVR version to an older, more stable branch(e.g., version 2.9.6 has been mentioned by some users as working). Thisis a more advanced troubleshooting step.

3. Adjust In-Game and Config File Settings

Many users have reported that tweaking various graphics settings both in-game and in the config.cfg file can significantly improve VR performance and stability. Look for the config.cfg file in your Documents/American Truck Simulator folder. Some key settings to investigate (use Ctrl+F to find them):

• uset t_ignore_hmd_timing "0": Some users report changing this to "1" helps with "rubberbanding" issues.
• Shadows and Reflections: Lowering these settings is a common recommendation for VR performance.
• Antialiasing: SMAA Ultra or lower is often preferred over TAA, which can cause flickering in VR.
• r_manual_stereo_buffer_scale: Experiment with values between 1.0 and 2.0. Higher values improve sharpness but heavily impact performance.
• t_averaging_window_duration and t_averaging_window_length: Some users suggest setting these to 5x your headset's target FPS (e.g., 450 for a 90Hz headset) or even 0 to fix stutter.
• r_minimal_unfinished_frames: Try setting to 3 to fix stutter.
• r_vsync: Setting to "0" might help, as ATS might try to use your monitor's VSync instead of the headset's.

4. Switch to VR Beta Branches

According to SCS developers, including Komat, critical VR fixes or important updates are often pushed to dedicated VR beta branches first. This allows them to quickly address VR-specific issues without waiting for a full main branch update.

To check if there's a more stable VR beta branch available:

Open Steam Library.

Right-click on "American Truck Simulator."

Select "Properties."

Go to the "Betas" tab.

From the "Beta Participation" dropdown menu, look for branches related to VR, such as oculus-Oculus+OpenVR+OpenXR or any other explicitly named VR beta. Select the desired branch.

Historically, VR users had to wait longer for beta access, but with these dedicatedbranches, they can get involved earlier and potentially find a morestable VR experience than the main game branch offers immediately after a major update.

Given the complexities of VR and the ongoingdevelopment, it's often a process of trial and error with combinationsof these solutions to find what works best for your specific hardwareand software setup. Keeping an eye on the official SCS Software forumsand community discussions (like on Reddit) is also highly recommended,as new solutions often emerge from the player base.

---

Other Articles Related

How To Get Dual Hammers in Vermintide 2
Learn how to unlock the powerful Dual Hammers for the Bardin Goreksson inVermintide 2. This guide covers the simple steps to get this top-tiermelee weapon for the Ironbreaker, Ranger Veteran, and Slayer careers.
All Heroes and Careers in Vermintide 2
Explore the diverse heroes and careers in Vermintide 2. Discover unique abilities, playstyles, and strategies to enhance your gameplay 
Return to the Reik Grimoire and Tome Locations in Vermintide 2
Searching for every grimoire and tome? Our Vermintide 2 collectible guide for"Return to the Reik" reveals all book locations to maximize your lootand complete the mission.
All Formable Nations in Europa Universalis 5
all formable nations in Europa Universalis 5! Explore strategies, tips, and guides to expand your empire and dominate the game.
How To Beat Challenges in Kirby Air Riders
Struggling to master the skies? Learn expert tips and strategies to overcome every challenge in Kirby Air Ride. Dominate the City Trial, conquer all racetracks, and unlock the game's secrets with our complete guide.
How To Get All Crafting Materials in Moonlighter 2
essential tips for gathering all crafting materials in Moonlighter 2. Enhance your gameplay and unlock new possibilities!
Weapon Tier List in Moonlighter 2
the ultimate weapon tier list for Moonlighter 2! Optimize your gameplay with our guide to the best weapons and strategies.
How to find Mandrakes in Don't Starve Together
Struggling to find Mandrakes in Don't Starve Together? Learn thebest seasons, locations, and strategies to hunt these elusive livingroots and craft their powerful items.
How To Improve Institution Growth In Europa Universalis 5
effective strategies to enhance institution growth in Europa Universalis 5. Unlock new potential and dominate your gameplay
How to Fix Europa Universalis 5 Not Launching Error
Resolve the Europa Universalis 5 not launching error with our step-by-step. Get back to gaming quickly and enjoy seamless gameplay!
How To Leave Rally Order in Mecha Break
Navigate the challenges of Mecha Break: How To Leave Rally Order. Gaininsights and tips to improve your gameplay
How to Unlock All Horadric Spells in Diablo 4
Discover how to unlock all Horadric spells in Diablo 4 with our comprehensive guide.
How To Get Baneful Heart in Diablo 4
Discover how to obtain the elusive Baneful Heart in Diablo 4. Unlockpowerful abilities and enhance your gameplay
How To Change Music in College Football 26
Unlock the secrets to changing music in College Football 26. Follow oureasy instructions to personalize your game
How to Get Remote Explosives in Whittleton Creek in Hitman
Discover how to acquire remote explosives in Whittleton Creek in Hitman.