Multiplayer Mode

To start in multiplayer mode, initiate OpenTTD as a service with the -D (dedicated server) parameter. No graphical interface is required for this service, so you can run OpenTTD perfectly on a root server.

All players then connect to the service as clients by selecting multiplayer mode and then the appropriate OpenTTD server when starting the game. Note that the OpenTTD versions must be identical between client and server.

Game Configuration

All settings necessary for the game are configured with variables in the openttd.cfg file; it is usually located in the ~/.openttd/ directory. For example, starting_year = 1950 sets the year in which the game starts at 1950.

The parameters map_x and map_y let you define the size of the playing field: map_x = 9, map_y = 8 creates a game field of 512x256 tiles. The smallest value allowed is 6 for 64 tiles, and the largest is 11 for 2,048 tiles. Next, select your climate model via the landscaping button.

The min_active_clients variable specifies how many clients need to be online at the same time. If the value entered here is exceeded, the server goes into a forced break, in which the game world is frozen and technological development and the economy just stand still. A value of 1 makes sure the game continues only after a player has logged in.

A detailed overview of the meanings of all the other parameters is provided in the official OpenTTD wiki [17].

Cool Extensions

OpenTTD increases its appeal with a large number of freely available extensions available directly in-game or on BaNaNaS [15]. The extensions originate from enthusiastic players and co-developers and exhibit a high level of design detail.

The extensions include region-specific maps and elevation profiles, country-specific town names, shapes of buildings, scenarios, and means of transport in transport operator and country-specific colors. These AIs include trucks and buses from various manufacturers; trams, helicopters, locomotives, and wagons; and even underground trains, horse carts, and stagecoaches. Figure 6 shows some vehicle options, including the Combino tram (by Siemens) and the Variobahn (Bombardier) and a selection of buses by Volvo, Setra, Scania, and Irisbus.

Figure 6: Vehicles with extensions from the Generic Tram Set, Modern Tram Set, Ikarus Set, and Long Vehicles packages.

Figure 7 shows the maintenance of a passenger train consisting of five double-decker railcars with a mail car and propelled by a Bombardier TRAXX (BR 145) in the traditional red and white color scheme of DB Regio. At the same time, another train is leaving the station, this time consisting of a Eurotunnel Class 9 built by ABB with five cars in the player's specific colors of red and white.

Figure 7: Two passenger trains in full operation, with extensions from the Generic European Set.

Figure 8 shows a list of available vehicles, including extensions for Ikarus/EAEC and trams and trolleys. Below the list, you will see details such as vehicle operating costs, reliability, and year. This data will facilitate assessments of the vehicle and its operating condition considerably.

Figure 8: Available vehicles shown in the overview include the Ikarus Set, Trolleybus Set, and Long Vehicles.