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OpenTTD Master Server
Port 3978 is primarily used by OpenTTD, an open-source transport simulation game modeled after Transport Tycoon Deluxe. This port facilitates communication between game clients and the master server as well as the content service, enabling server listings, multiplayer session coordination, and in-game content updates. It supports both TCP for reliable data transfer and UDP for efficient game state synchronization..
Port 3978 serves a crucial role in OpenTTD’s network architecture. It acts as the port through which clients and servers communicate with the OpenTTD multiplayer master server, which maintains a live directory of available game servers. When a player wants to join a multiplayer game, their client queries the master server over this port to retrieve a list of active games.
Besides the server listing feature, this port also supports OpenTTD’s content downloading service. Through it, players can fetch additional game content such as NewGRFs (graphics sets), scenarios, and heightmaps. This dual use enhances gameplay by simplifying content updates and promoting a vibrant multiplayer community.
The port typically supports both TCP and UDP protocols. TCP is mainly used for service queries, content browsing, and downloads requiring reliable data transfer. UDP is preferable for real-time gameplay data transmission, offering low latency and minimal overhead suitable for interactive gaming environments.