Introduction to Multiplayer Networking
Introduction to Multiplayer Networking
Multiplayer Networking
• Evolution from LAN to cloud-based
networking
• Early methods: Direct IP & LAN setups
• Rise of the internet: Centralized servers &
P2P networking
• Challenges of P2P: Security & stability
issues
• Modern approach: Cloud-based networking
for better performance
• Photon Networking: Simplifies multiplayer
game development
Introduction to
Photon
Networking
• Real-time multiplayer solution by Exit Games
• Cloud-based infrastructure for easy multiplayer
implementation
• Key products: PUN, Photon Fusion, Photon
Quantum, Photon Realtime
• Cross-platform support & real-time
synchronization
Why Choose Photon for
Multiplayer Games?
Photon offers several advantages over traditional
multiplayer solutions. Firstly, it provides a server-
authoritative model, ensuring fair gameplay by
preventing cheating. Secondly, its cloud-based
infrastructure eliminates the need for developers to
manage their own servers, reducing development
costs. Photon also supports crossplatform gaming,
allowing players from different devices (PC, mobile,
console) to connect seamlessly. Another key feature
is its low latency and optimized networking stack,
which is crucial for fast-paced games like shooters or
racing games. Additionally, Photon’s scalability
ensures that games can handle thousands of
concurrent users efficiently, making it an ideal choice
for both indie developers and large-scale studios.
Photon Networking
Photon operates onArchitecture
a Client-Server Model, where clients communicate
with the Photon Cloud or a self-hosted Photon Server. The Master Server
handles matchmaking, while Game Servers manage active game
sessions. Unlike traditional networking solutions, Photon follows a Room-
Based Model, where players join rooms and interact with others in the
same session. Each room has a Master Client, responsible for
synchronizing important game state updates. Photon uses Remote
Procedure Calls (RPCs) and Network Instantiation to sync objects and
actions across all connected clients efficiently.
Components of
Photon
Networking
Photon Cloud Photon Server
A managed cloud-based – A self-hosted alternative
service that handles to Photon Cloud, offering
multiplayer connectivity more control and
without requiring a customization.
dedicated server.
Remote
Photon View
Procedure Calls
A component in Photon
Unity Networking (PUN)
(RPCs)
Used for– executing
used to synchronize object functions across different
states. clients
Synchronizing
Multiplayer Gameplay
Game synchronization isin Photon
critical for ensuring all players see the same
actions happening in real time. Photon offers several mechanisms for
achieving smooth synchronization, including state-based
synchronization and event-based synchronization. In state-based
synchronization, objects are constantly updated at a fixed interval,
while event-based synchronization only transmits data when an event
occurs, reducing network bandwidth usage. Photon also provides
interpolation and extrapolation techniques to predict player movements
and compensate for latency, ensuring smooth gameplay even in
unstable network conditions.
Matchmaking and
Lobby Systems
Matchmaking is a core component of any
multiplayer game, allowing players to find and join
suitable game sessions. Photon provides multiple
matchmaking options:
Random Skill-Based
Matchmaking Matchmaking
Players are randomly assigned to In the event of a security incident, AI can
available rooms automate responses to mitigate damage.
This includes isolating affected systems
and alerting IT personnel, thereby
minimizing downtime and protecting
patient information.
Optimizing Photon Networking
for Performance
To ensure smooth gameplay, developers must optimize their Photon implementation.
Some best practices include: