Introducing multiplayer games
Multiplayer games are probably one of the most attractive forms of entertainment available today. There are several reasons why these types of games have become so popular and engaging over the years.
First, playing with other people adds elements of competition (or cooperation) that can be incredibly motivating and fun. Whether it’s a game such as the hyper-realistic Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (https://www.counter-strike.net/) or some crazy setting such as Rubber Bandits (https://www.rubberbandits.game/), there is something magical about playing in virtual environments that makes it exciting and enjoyable.
Having someone else to play with also means introducing a lot of opportunities for creative problem-solving and many possibilities for social interaction between people from different backgrounds and countries who may never have met otherwise!
But how did it all begin?
In the early 70s, the PLATO time-sharing system developed by the University of Illinois and Control Data Corporation enabled students at multiple locations to access online lessons. Soon after the introduction of PLATO IV, students began utilizing the newly introduced graphical capabilities to create multiplayer video games. By the end of the 70s, PLATO had introduced different games, spanning from dungeon crawlers to space battles to tank combat.
However, multiplayer games didn’t really take off until the mid-90s: at this time, internet access became widely available and gamers could finally connect to each other throughout the world.
The popular Doom is considered the very first online game as it allowed up to four players at once and featured a deathmatch mode where you could compete for points.
Over the decades, technology has massively improved and we are now able to play together around the globe in amazing immersive virtual worlds without (hopefully!) any lag or connection issues: it’s no wonder so many people are drawn toward these types of experiences!
What’s more, gamers have developed creative ways to communicate during gameplay, such as using online services including Skype and Discord, which deliver an even more immersive experience.
With the advent of real-time streaming platforms such as Twitch and YouTube, a new phase of multiplayer games has begun. Gamers can play and live broadcast at the same time, letting millions of people enjoy their experience.
Becoming a network programmer in video games
If you are reading this book, chances are you want to understand the basic principles of networking and apply your soon-to-be strong knowledge in multiplayer video game programming to the next big hit. As a multiplayer programmer, you will be able to create fun and interactive games for others to enjoy: this will be an incredibly rewarding experience!
But be aware – network video game programming can be quite challenging, with long work hours and potential stress. It is important to be aware of this before pursuing this type of career.
To avoid these kinds of pitfalls, it’s essential to have a solid understanding of how networks work in order to let players have an enjoyable and flawless experience.
Understanding a multiplayer game also means understanding how to troubleshoot computer issues and handle them whenever they pop up.
And rest assured...they will pop up sooner or later!
In the following section, you will learn about the major types of multiplayer games, as well as the distinctions that set them apart.