factorio

Create a new save file

$ [path/to/factorio] --create [path/to/save_file.zip]

$ [path/to/factorio] --start-server [path/to/save_file.zip]

$ [path/to/factorio] --create [path/to/save.zip] --map-gen-settings [path/to/map-gen-settings.json] --map-settings [path/to/map-settings.json]

$ /quit

$ [path/to/factorio] [[-h|--help]]

factorio [OPTIONS]

--start-server SAVE_FILE
    Starts a dedicated multiplayer server using the specified save file. If the file doesn't exist, a new game is created.

--create SAVE_FILE
    Creates a new game save file using default or specified map generation settings.

--map-gen-settings FILE
    Specifies a JSON file containing advanced map generation settings for new games.

--mod-directory PATH
    Overrides the default directory where Factorio looks for mods. Useful for server-specific mod sets.

--benchmark
    Runs the game in benchmark mode, measuring performance for a specified number of ticks or until manually stopped.

--benchmark-ticks TICKS
    Used in conjunction with `--benchmark` to specify the number of game ticks to run the benchmark.

--port NUMBER
    Sets the network port for the dedicated server (default is 34197).

--config FILE
    Specifies an alternative path for the Factorio configuration file.

--version
    Displays the current Factorio game version and build information.

--help
    Shows a summary of all available command-line options.

The `factorio` command refers to the executable for the popular factory-building simulation game, Factorio. While primarily known for its graphical user interface, the Linux executable provides robust command-line interface (CLI) options, particularly useful for running dedicated servers, performing benchmarks, managing mods, and automating various game-related tasks without launching the full GUI.

The game's core loop involves mining resources, researching technologies, building intricate production lines, and defending your factory from hostile alien creatures. The CLI capabilities extend this, allowing for the deployment of persistent multiplayer servers, scripting of specific game states, and detailed performance analysis. This makes `factorio` a versatile application that caters to both interactive gameplay and backend server administration.

The `factorio` command is the game executable itself, not a typical system utility. Its path may vary depending on installation (e.g., `/opt/factorio/bin/x64/factorio` or within a user's Steam library). While many options are available, most are relevant for running headless servers, modding, or debugging, rather than standard desktop gameplay.

Running a dedicated server requires understanding of network configuration and potentially firewall rules. Game licenses are typically required to play the full game, though the server executable may function without a graphical license.

The primary use of the `factorio` command on Linux is to run a dedicated server without a graphical interface. This is typically done using `--start-server` which creates a process that can host multiplayer games, consuming fewer system resources than running the full client. Often, this is paired with terminal multiplexers like `screen` or `tmux` to keep the server running even after the user disconnects from the terminal.

Factorio's modding capabilities are extensive. The command line allows server administrators to manage mods for their dedicated servers, including specifying mod directories (`--mod-directory`) and managing mod lists (`--mod-list`). This ensures that specific mod packs are loaded correctly for multiplayer sessions.

The `factorio` executable interacts with various configuration files (e.g., `config.ini`) and save files (`.zip` archives). Command-line options allow for specifying custom paths for these files, enabling multiple server instances or custom game setups on a single machine.

Factorio was first released in early access in 2016 by Wube Software, with its full 1.0 release in August 2020. From its inception, the game prioritized moddability and multiplayer functionality. The command-line interface, especially for headless server operation, evolved significantly alongside the game's development to support the burgeoning community of dedicated server hosts and mod developers. This robust CLI has been a cornerstone for its thriving multiplayer scene, allowing for stable, long-running server instances independent of a graphical client.

screen(1), tmux(1), systemctl(1), netstat(8)