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Road Kings: Open Road Hero Q&A at Gamescom 2025

Road Kings Gamescom 2025 Q&A – ‘You Are the Hero of the Open Road’

During Gamescom 2025’s Opening Night Live, Saber Interactive and Focus Entertainment unveiled their newest entry, Road Kings, expanding their acclaimed off-road simulation franchise following titles like MudRunner and SnowRunner. Departing from rugged terrain, this installment zeroes in on authentic trucking, tasking players with managing logistical challenges while traversing southern U.S. routes like Jacksonville to Savannah. Mechanics span route planning, regulatory compliance, fuel efficiency, and dynamic weather, layered with a story-driven campaign exploring the lives of truckers.

At the event, Saber Interactive Porto’s Game Director Peter Mack and Chief Creative Officer Tim Willits shared insights into Road Kings, slated for a 2026 release on PC (Steam), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series S|X, with a Nintendo Switch 2 version under consideration.

Peter, what prior experience influenced your approach to this project?

Peter Mack: My background includes developing LEGO titles, but joining Saber Porto four years ago shifted my focus to simulation. Road Kings began pre-production in 2022, with full development kicking off a year later.

Which engine powers the game?

Peter Mack: We’re leveraging Unreal Engine 5, utilizing features like Lumen and Nanite to enhance realism. Our team’s expertise from previous vehicle simulations ensures authentic physics and handling.

How does this title differentiate from Saber’s existing portfolio?

Tim Willits: It’s a natural evolution. While retaining simulation depth, we’ve infused a human-centric narrative. Players aren’t just hauling cargo—they’re navigating personal stories, community needs, and industry shifts, like automation fears and climate impacts.

International truck front view with logo.
Weather systems directly impact gameplay—dense fog or storms reduce visibility, while mechanical wear demands careful maintenance. Though snow isn’t in the initial Southeast U.S. map, we’re exploring seasonal expansions.

Can players engage beyond the main story?

Peter Mack: Absolutely. The 10-hour campaign is just the beginning. Procedural events, like sudden detours or urgent deliveries, create emergent narratives. Your choices affect relationships with dispatchers and unlock perks, incentivizing replayability.

Tim Willits: Trucking isn’t solitary. Our asynchronous multiplayer lets players co-found virtual logistics firms. Contributions from members—whether upgrading garages or completing contracts—boost the company’s global ranking. Cross-platform support ensures friends can collaborate regardless of device.

International Fleetstar truck in a garage setting with a menu showing Torque 300.0/4000.0 lb-ft and Value $250000.00.
Post-launch, we’ll introduce new regions, vehicle models, and narrative arcs. Updates will blend free content—aerial logistics via tow planes, for example—with premium expansions, ensuring long-term engagement.

What’s planned post-launch?

Peter Mack: We’re mapping out DLCs: Midwest routes with icy roads, unique cargo types, and expanded customization. Collaborations with real truck manufacturers will bring licensed rigs into the game, adding authenticity.

Tim Willits: Player feedback will steer our roadmap. Whether it’s mod support or cooperative convoys, we’re committed to evolving Road Kings alongside its community.