The release of OpenLoco, an open-source reimplementation of Chris Sawyer's Locomotion, has reignited discussions about the original developer's complex relationship with community-driven game remakes. While the project aims to enhance the classic transport simulation game, community conversations reveal an underlying tension between preservation efforts and artistic intent.
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| An exciting roller coaster track representing themes of adventure and nostalgia in transport simulation games |
Creator's Opposition to Open Source Remakes
Chris Sawyer, the original developer of Transport Tycoon and RollerCoaster Tycoon, reportedly holds reservations about open-source reimplementations of his games. Community discussions indicate that Sawyer considers his works complete as originally released and views modifications with skepticism. This stance has created an interesting dynamic within the gaming community, particularly as projects like OpenTTD and OpenRCT2 have gained popularity.
From what I've seen, he considers them piracy.
However, this perspective has been challenged by community members who point out that these open-source implementations actually require players to purchase the original game assets, potentially driving additional sales through platforms like GOG and Steam.
Technical Evolution and Community Impact
The OpenLoco project represents a significant technical undertaking, reimplementing the game's assembly code in C++. The community has highlighted key differences between OpenLoco and its spiritual predecessor OpenTTD, particularly regarding pathfinding algorithms. Users have noted that while OpenLoco's current pathfinding system may be less forgiving than OpenTTD's YAPF (Yet Another Pathfinding) system, the project is still in early development stages.
Legal and Development Considerations
Historical community discussions have surfaced claims of past agreements between developers and Sawyer regarding Locomotion's reimplementation. However, current OpenLoco developers, who share more commonality with the OpenRCT2 team than OpenTTD, have indicated no knowledge of such arrangements. This highlights the complex landscape of open-source game development and intellectual property rights in the gaming industry.
The ongoing development of OpenLoco represents a broader trend in gaming preservation and enhancement, where communities work to maintain and improve classic titles while navigating the delicate balance between innovation and respect for original creators' visions.
Reference: OpenLoco - An open source re-implementation of Chris Sawyer's Locomotion