Transport Tycoon
Build your network
Chris Sawyer's Transport Tycoon let players build transport empires across procedural landscapes, inspiring dedicated fans who maintain the game to this day.
Overview
Chris Sawyer, working almost entirely alone in assembly language, created Transport Tycoon—a game where players build road, rail, air, and sea networks to move passengers and cargo. The isometric world generated unique landscapes each game. The economic simulation rewarded efficiency and planning. Two decades later, OpenTTD keeps the game alive with modern enhancements.
Fast facts
- Developer: Chris Sawyer.
- Publisher: MicroProse.
- Coding: entirely in x86 assembly language.
- Transport types: trains, trucks, buses, ships, aircraft.
- Expansion: Transport Tycoon Deluxe (1995).
- Open source: OpenTTD (2004-present) continues development.
The Sawyer method
One-person development:
- Assembly language: maximum performance, minimum requirements.
- Isometric engine: distinctive visual style.
- Procedural generation: unique maps each game.
- Sound design: vehicles have distinct audio.
OpenTTD
The community continuation:
- Reverse engineering: recreated game from scratch.
- Enhancements: larger maps, new features.
- Multiplayer: online co-op and competition.
- Active development: still receiving updates.