20-09-2003 12:07									#1
	Question regarding possible auto-play / zero-player mode.... Avatar Enlargement: We've got the solution

My apologies if this has already been asked, but my searching didn't seem to reveal an answer:

Is there a way to have the computer play itself to finish out a game? My Dad who is an avid player would like to stop playing a game, but watch the computer play it out. Is there a way to trick the computer into an auto-play or zero-player mode?

Thanks in advance!!!!

Edgar Newt

	20-09-2003 15:05									#2
	Remove this text

In mid-game, No.
But you can create a scenario where you are isolated on an out-of-the-way 1-tile island. Have a Settler and heavy defense unit(s) -- e.g., Mech Infantry. Don't ever build a city, and the existence of the Settler keeps you in the game.
EDIT: Also required
Scenario menu > Scenario Properties > Debug Mode
or at least Map Explored

Last edited by Jaybe on 26-09-2003 at 23:02

	25-09-2003 01:02									#3
	Got spare money?

...and put a heavy object on the "Enter" key to skip all your turns.

	25-09-2003 05:50									#4
	Support Apolyton, buy Call to Power 2

quote: Originally posted by BigFurryMonster ...and put a heavy object on the "Enter" key to skip all your turns.

You don't have to do THAT, do you?
Preferences: Game (top) section: "Always wait at end of turn" -- uncheck it.

Of course, you might prefer to wait. I think I'd prefer to manually do it; no heavy object, no unchecking the preference.

	25-09-2003 06:30									#5
	Tired of ads?

Good point Jaybe.

	25-09-2003 13:48									#6
	Support Apolyton, buy Alpha Centauri

quote: Originally posted by Jaybe You don't have to do THAT, do you? Preferences: Game (top) section: "Always wait at end of turn" -- uncheck it.

No, I think that even if you uncheck that, it waits at end of turn if there's zero units to be moved.

	25-09-2003 14:03									#7
	Inflate your Upload Space

quote: Originally posted by BigFurryMonster No, I think that even if you uncheck that, it waits at end of turn if there's zero units to be moved.

True, because if it didn't wait, how on earth would you start any diplomacy or change cities' build order if turns just went by? That would be incredibly stupid option

I'd like to see just computer against computer matches too. I seem to remember that in some older strategy games, like Warlords II, you could just sit there and watch computers play after human player(s) was destroyed or retired. Of course Civ 3 is not designed for that kind of play, it'd quickly become boring to stay on that island not seeing anything, because uncharted territory and fog of war would prevent you from seeing anything...

	26-09-2003 21:25									#8
	Support Apolyton, buy GURPS/ Alpha Centauri

Actually I would be interested in finding a way to do this too - it would be useful for testing custom maps etc.

My question, assuming you put a settler on a rock somewhere to keep you 'in the game' - how would you see all the AI movements, wouldnt the world just be black?

	26-09-2003 22:57									#9
	Tired of ads?

Asmodeus, did everyone (including myself!) neglect to mention
DEBUG Mode

Scenario menu > Scenario Properties
Debug checkbox (access the Help for options while playing in debug).
Map Explored is also available, but is included within Debug

	29-09-2003 05:36									#10
	Put an end to popups!

quote: Originally posted by Jaybe In mid-game, No. But you can create a scenario where you are isolated on an out-of-the-way 1-tile island. Have a Settler and heavy defense unit(s) -- e.g., Mech Infantry. Don't ever build a city, and the existence of the Settler keeps you in the game. EDIT: Also required Scenario menu > Scenario Properties > Debug Mode or at least Map Explored

Sort of a slight variation that works along the same theme, although I haven't tried this: instead of a single one-tile island, set it up so it looks like the picture. This way your settler can't build a city or escape, and the opponents can't get to your settler, because they cannot get through the ring around your island. That way, not as many (if any) heavy defense units are needed.

	01-10-2003 16:09									#11
	Support Apolyton

Nice, it works well. i made one up and left it going over night to see how it goes, however it goes slowly cause with the debug mode on it shows every move... (even when 'show enemy movements' is turned off).

	01-10-2003 16:19									#12
	Support Apolyton, buy Civilization 2

Turn off "Animate movements" as well. It'll still show you certain movements though, like the founding of cities.