Connecting

Open Freeciv → Connect to Network Game → Server: freeciv.andrewmcgrath.info → Port: 5556 → Enter your username and password. You'll be automatically assigned to your nation.

Ruleset: civ2civ3

This game uses the civ2civ3 ruleset — a balanced evolution of Civ2 rules adapted for multiplayer. Key features: tech trading, caravans, wonders, unit upgrades via Leonardo's Workshop, espionage, and nuclear weapons. Full tech tree with 87 advances. All nations available.

How It Works

The server runs inside a Docker container on Fly.io. A startup script (start.sh) manages four background processes:

1. FIFO Writer — Sends commands to the Freeciv server's stdin via a named pipe. Handles aitoggle on startup (switches pre-created AI players to human control) and take commands when authenticated users connect (auto-assigns them to their nation).
2. Turn Watcher — Monitors the server log for new save events. When a turn change is detected, triggers email notifications to all registered players and refreshes this status page.
3. Status Page Generator — Parses all save files (.sav.gz) to extract game history, player stats, and rankings. Outputs a static HTML file with embedded Chart.js graphs. Refreshes every 15 minutes or immediately on turn change (via SIGUSR1).
4. HTTP Server — busybox httpd serves this status page on port 8080. Fly.io routes HTTP/HTTPS traffic here, while the game client connects directly on port 5556 (raw TCP).

Player authentication uses Freeciv's built-in fcdb system with a SQLite database. Players are pre-created in the .serv config file with assigned nations. The database.lua script handles login verification and connection logging. The allowtake setting (HAhadOo) permits authenticated humans to take control of their assigned player.