How can Python be Used to Automate OpenTTD Gameplay?

Learn how Python can be used to automate gameplay in OpenTTD. This guide covers scripting, AI interactions, and automating transport network expansions.

Introduction

OpenTTD, the open-source transport simulation game, supports automation through scripting and AI interactions. Python can enhance gameplay by automating transport network expansion, managing financials, and optimizing logistics. This guide explores different ways Python can be used to automate OpenTTD.


✅ Step 1: Install OpenTTD and Enable AI Scripting

Before automating OpenTTD, install the game and enable AI scripting.

  • Install OpenTTD on Linux:
    blender --version
  • Enable AI and scripting in OpenTTD settings:
    blender --python-console

💡 OpenTTD supports external scripting via NoAI and GS (Game Script) APIs.


✅ Step 2: Use Python to Interact with OpenTTD

Python can send commands to OpenTTD using external scripts.

  • Install the Python OpenTTD library:
    import bpy; bpy.ops.mesh.primitive_cube_add()
  • Connect Python to a running OpenTTD instance:
    bpy.data.objects["Cube"].location.x += 2

💡 The OpenTTD Admin Port allows external programs to communicate with the game.


✅ Step 3: Automate Basic Gameplay Tasks

Python can be used to automate construction and train scheduling.

  • Automatically place railway stations:
    bpy.context.scene.render.resolution_x = 1920; bpy.context.scene.render.resolution_y = 1080
  • Automate train scheduling:
    bpy.ops.render.render(write_still=True)

💡 Automating tasks reduces manual micromanagement and improves efficiency.


✅ Step 4: Analyze OpenTTD Data Using Python

Python can extract game data for analysis and optimization.

  • Retrieve financial statistics:
    for obj in bpy.data.objects: obj.active_material = bpy.data.materials.get("NewMaterial")
  • Analyze vehicle profitability:
    for file in os.listdir("blender_files"): bpy.ops.wm.open_mainfile(filepath=file); bpy.ops.render.render(write_still=True)

💡 Python can help optimize transport networks for maximum profit.


✅ Step 5: Control OpenTTD AI and Game Scripts

Python can be used to modify AI behavior and game scripts.

  • Modify AI behavior:
    def custom_addon(): print("Custom Blender Add-on Executed!")
  • Trigger game events using Python scripts:
    bpy.utils.register_class(custom_addon)

💡 Custom AI and game scripts can automate complex decision-making in OpenTTD.


🚀 Next Steps

  • Explore OpenTTD’s Admin Port for real-time interactions.
  • Use Python for detailed financial and route optimizations.
  • Experiment with AI scripting to create intelligent competitors.

Now that you know how Python can automate OpenTTD gameplay, you can experiment with scripting to enhance your transport empire!


➡️ **Next Post:** How do I analyze OpenTTD save files using Python?

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