BeamNG.drive is an incredibly detailed vehicle simulation game that has captured the imagination of gamers and car enthusiasts alike. With its advanced soft-body physics, the game offers a level of realism unseen in most driving games. Whether you’re looking to crash vehicles, explore expansive maps, or create custom scenarios, BeamNG.drive has it all. However, mastering the game can be a bit challenging for newcomers. In this how-to guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps and tips to help you get the most out of BeamNG.drive.
This detailed guide is structured to cover everything from the basic setup to advanced gameplay features. We will break down important aspects of the game, provide useful how-to instructions, and offer practical tips. Let’s dive into the world of BeamNG and learn how to harness its full potential!
1. How to Install and Set Up BeamNG.drive
Step 1: Purchasing the Game
Before you can start playing, you’ll need to purchase BeamNG.drive. The game is available on Steam, and the installation process is straightforward.
How to Purchase:
- Go to Steam and search for BeamNG.drive.
- Click on the game’s page and select Add to Cart.
- Complete your purchase, and the game will be added to your Steam library.
Step 2: Installation and First Launch
Once you’ve purchased the game, head over to your Steam library to install it.
How to Install:
- Click on the Game: Navigate to BeamNG.drive in your Steam library.
- Install the Game: Click the Install button and wait for the download and installation to complete.
- Launch the Game: After installation, click Play to launch BeamNG.drive for the first time.
2. How to Navigate the Main Menu
Step 1: Overview of the Main Menu
When you first launch BeamNG.drive, you’ll be greeted by the main menu, which serves as your hub for accessing all game modes, settings, and mods. Familiarizing yourself with the main menu is crucial for navigating the game.
Menu Sections:
- Free Roam: Explore the maps at your own pace.
- Scenarios: Play structured challenges with specific objectives.
- Mods: Access and manage your downloaded mods.
- Options: Adjust settings like graphics, controls, and audio.
Step 2: Accessing Different Game Modes
From the main menu, you can easily jump into any of the available game modes. Each mode offers a unique experience tailored to different play styles.
Game Modes:
- Free Roam: Explore open worlds without restrictions.
- Scenarios: Complete tasks such as races, time trials, or police chases.
- Quick Race: Engage in high-speed races on various tracks.
3. How to Customize Your Controls
Step 1: Choosing Your Input Device
BeamNG.drive supports a variety of input devices, including keyboards, gamepads, and steering wheels. A well-configured control setup can drastically improve your gameplay experience.
Supported Devices:
- Keyboard: The default control option for most players.
- Gamepad: Best for smoother control over vehicle dynamics.
- Steering Wheel: For a more immersive driving experience, use a steering wheel like the Logitech G29.
Step 2: Customizing Key Bindings
To tailor the control scheme to your preferences, you can adjust key bindings in the game’s Options menu.
How to Customize Controls:
- Navigate to Options > Controls.
- Select the control category (e.g., driving, camera).
- Choose the action you want to rebind, then press the key or button you want to assign.
4. How to Drive and Handle Different Vehicles
Step 1: Basic Driving Mechanics
Driving in BeamNG.drive can be tricky for beginners due to the game’s realistic physics. Start by picking a vehicle in Free Roam and practice basic driving techniques.
Driving Basics:
- Accelerate Gradually: Sudden acceleration can cause wheel spin, especially on high-powered vehicles.
- Brake Early: Since stopping distances are realistic, start braking well before turns to avoid collisions.
Step 2: Handling Different Vehicle Types
Each vehicle in BeamNG.drive has unique handling characteristics, so it’s important to understand how different types perform.
Vehicle Categories:
- Sports Cars: High speed but difficult to control.
- Off-Road Trucks: Designed for rough terrain with better suspension.
- Sedans and Hatchbacks: Balanced vehicles, easier for beginners.
5. How to Use the Free Roam Mode
Step 1: Selecting a Map
Free Roam is one of the best ways to explore BeamNG.drive at your own pace. Start by selecting a map that suits your preferences.
Popular Maps:
- East Coast USA: A diverse map with both urban and rural areas.
- Utah: Ideal for off-roading and exploring desert landscapes.
Step 2: Navigating Free Roam
Once you’re in Free Roam, you can explore the map without restrictions. Use the Tab key to switch between different vehicles or press F7 to teleport your vehicle to a new location on the map.
Free Roam Tips:
- Set Waypoints: Use the map to set waypoints for navigation.
- Vehicle Reset: Press R to reset your vehicle after a crash.
6. How to Master the Scenarios
Step 1: Selecting a Scenario
Scenarios are one of the most exciting gameplay modes in BeamNG.drive, offering structured challenges like races, stunts, and vehicle recovery missions.
How to Access Scenarios:
- From the main menu, select Scenarios.
- Browse through the list of available challenges and pick one.
Step 2: Completing Scenarios
Each scenario has specific objectives, such as reaching a destination within a time limit or avoiding obstacles. These scenarios are great for improving your driving skills.
Scenario Tips:
- Practice: Some scenarios are difficult, so don’t be afraid to retry them multiple times.
- Learn from Mistakes: Analyze what went wrong and adjust your driving accordingly.
7. How to Use Mods in BeamNG.drive
Step 1: Finding and Downloading Mods
One of the features that makes BeamNG.drive so popular is its modding community. Mods can range from new vehicles and maps to custom scenarios and gameplay features.
Where to Find Mods:
- BeamNG Mod Repository: The official platform for downloading mods.
- Third-Party Sites: Sites like BeamNG.com or Nexus Mods also offer user-created content.
Step 2: Installing Mods
After downloading a mod, installation is simple and quick.
How to Install Mods:
- Locate the Mods folder in
Documents/BeamNG.drive. - Drag and drop the downloaded .zip file into the folder.
- Open the game, and the mod will be available in the Mods section.
8. How to Create Custom Vehicles and Maps
Step 1: Using the World Editor
BeamNG.drive includes a powerful World Editor that allows players to create custom maps and scenarios. This tool is perfect for those who want to add a personal touch to their gameplay.
Accessing the World Editor:
- Press F11 while in-game to launch the World Editor.
- Use the various tools to add objects, vehicles, and set up custom challenges.
Step 2: Saving and Sharing Your Creations
Once you’ve created your custom map or vehicle, you can save it for personal use or share it with the community by uploading it to the BeamNG Mod Repository.
Saving Your Work:
- Save As: Make sure to save your map or vehicle under a unique name.
- Upload: Share your creation for others to download and enjoy.
9. How to Record and Replay Gameplay
Step 1: Recording Gameplay
BeamNG.drive features an integrated recording system that allows you to capture your most epic moments, whether it’s a high-speed crash or a flawless race.
How to Record:
- Press Ctrl + R to start recording.
- Press Ctrl + R again to stop the recording.
Step 2: Using Replays
Once you’ve captured a recording, you can replay it from different angles or in slow motion. This feature is perfect for analyzing crashes or creating cinematic videos.
Replay Tips:
- Slow Motion: Press Alt + Arrow Down to view replays in slow motion.
- Camera Angles: Use the Free Camera mode to capture the best angles of your replay.
10. How to Improve Performance in BeamNG.drive
Step 1: Adjusting Graphics Settings
If you’re experiencing performance issues, tweaking the graphics settings can help improve frame rates. Lowering certain options like shadow quality and anti-aliasing will make the game run smoother on less powerful systems.
Recommended Settings for Performance:
- Texture Quality: Set to Medium to balance visuals and performance.
- Shadows: Lower to Low or Off for higher FPS.
- Anti-Aliasing: Set to FXAA for minimal performance impact.
Step 2: Managing Physics Calculations
Since BeamNG.drive relies heavily on physics calculations, reducing the number of active vehicles or lowering the physics quality can also help improve performance.
Physics Tips:
- Limit Active Vehicles: Fewer vehicles mean fewer physics calculations.
- Lower Physics Detail: Adjust the physics detail settings under the Gameplay tab.
Conclusion
BeamNG.drive is a game like no other, offering an unrivaled level of driving and crash simulation. This how-to guide covers everything from the basics, such as installation and controls, to more advanced features like modding and custom scenario creation. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the game’s intricacies and enjoying all that BeamNG has to offer. Whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore simulation enthusiast, BeamNG.drive provides endless opportunities for fun and creativity. Happy driving!
