Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

For a conventional scripted StarCraft II bot in Python, start with BurnySc2’s python-sc2 package, distributed as burnysc2. Its higher-level game objects and quick-start examples make it a practical entry point without locking you out of lower-level access. Choose Blizzard’s s2client-api if you want to work in C++ against the reference API; consider PySC2 when your project is centered on learning-environment or reinforcement-learning research.

Which StarCraft II bot framework should you use?

Pick based on the bot you intend to build, your preferred language, and whether you need a game-bot abstraction or a research environment. The sources available for these frameworks support a use-case comparison, not a measured ranking: they do not establish a universal winner or comparable speed figures.

Framework Best fit Language and approach Setup and cautions
BurnySc2 python-sc2 / burnysc2 Scripted bots, especially a first bot in Python Python 3; offers higher-level game objects and lower-level access. Bots use BotAI and an asynchronous on_step method. Requires Python 3.9 or newer, a StarCraft II installation, and maps. The project covers the raw scripted interface, not graphics-based interfaces. Its maintainers warn that the fork may diverge from Dentosal’s version, so older tutorials may no longer work.
Blizzard s2client-api C++ scripted bots, API-level control, or use of Blizzard’s reference client library C++; wraps the protobuf protocol and provides interfaces including Agent, ObservationInterface, and ActionInterface. Build the API client first. Examples also need the StarCraft II executable path. Official API documentation is useful for understanding the protocol-level interfaces, but was generated several years ago; check the repository’s instructions for current build details.
PySC2 Learning-environment and reinforcement-learning research Python environment wrapper for the StarCraft II Learning Environment. Blizzard’s protocol project lists it as a community tool, and foundational SC2LE research describes the research interface. Current installation and compatibility details should be checked before committing.
CommandCenter A possible alternative bot-development architecture Not stated in the reviewed primary documentation. Blizzard’s protocol repository lists it as a community architecture, but the available material does not establish its language, setup requirements, or current maintenance status.

What to consider before choosing

Language and familiarity

If you already work in Python, BurnySc2 is the direct route to a scripted bot, while PySC2 is oriented toward an environment-based research workflow. If you prefer C++ or specifically want Blizzard’s reference API implementation, use s2client-api.

Bot logic or learning workflow

A scripted-bot framework suits logic that directly evaluates game state and issues commands. An environment interface is a better conceptual fit when the project revolves around experiments with learning agents. The two approaches should not be treated as interchangeable just because both can interact with StarCraft II.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter
  • Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
  • Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
  • Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
  • Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
  • 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.

Abstraction and control

BurnySc2 presents convenient higher-level game objects while retaining lower-level access. Blizzard’s C++ API exposes observations and actions through defined interfaces: ObservationInterface supplies a snapshot of game state and visible units, while ActionInterface issues commands such as moving, attacking, or building.

Runtime and setup burden

All of these options depend on a compatible StarCraft II client/runtime and appropriate maps or other runtime setup. The C++ route adds an explicit API-client build step; BurnySc2 requires a Python environment and a client installation. PySC2 and CommandCenter need separate verification of their present-day setup details.

Rank #2
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter
  • 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
  • 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
  • Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
  • 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

Getting started with BurnySc2

BurnySc2’s project README describes it as “An easy-to-use library for writing AI Bots for StarCraft II in Python 3.” Its documented quick-start pattern is to subclass BotAI, implement async def on_step(...), and launch the bot with run_game.

  1. Install Python 3.9 or newer and a StarCraft II client. BurnySc2 documentation expects the client in the default installation path; Linux and WSL may require configuration adjustments.
  2. Install the package with pip install --upgrade burnysc2.
  3. Ensure the maps required by your game setup are available.
  4. Create a bot class derived from BotAI and implement its asynchronous on_step method for the bot’s per-step logic.
  5. Use run_game to launch the game with the bot and selected map.

The documentation also exposes configurable controls such as game step and distance-calculation method. Treat these as configuration choices; the available sources do not establish that a particular setting guarantees better performance.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter
  • Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
  • Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
  • Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
  • Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

When Blizzard’s C++ API is the better fit

Choose s2client-api when C++ is a requirement or when working directly with Blizzard’s reference client library is valuable to the project. The getting-started documentation assumes sc2api-client is already built, and the examples require the StarCraft II executable path. That extra build and path setup is part of the choice, not evidence that the API is inherently faster or slower.

Blizzard’s protocol supports more than live scripted bots: its materials also describe machine-learning bots, replay analysis, and tool-assisted play. The protocol repository lists protocol definitions, the reference C++ implementation, Linux packages, maps, replay resources, and community tools such as PySC2.

Rank #4
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray
  • Dual Converters, Infinite Potential:Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
  • Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
  • Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
  • Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
  • Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

What the available comparisons do—and do not—show

The framework documentation supports comparisons of language, interfaces, and setup expectations. It does not provide a controlled performance test across frameworks, a comparable maintenance metric, installation-count statistics, or bot win-rate data. A claim that one framework is fastest would require a benchmark using the intended game version, map, machine, and bot workload.

The coverage here is not an exhaustive survey of every community framework. In particular, the current PySC2 setup and maintenance picture and CommandCenter’s current documentation are not established by the available primary material. Verify those details directly before making them dependencies for a long-lived project.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Best Value
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display
  • 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
  • Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
  • Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
  • HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
  • What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.