Description
In the fighting games industry, netcode is crucial for ensuring smooth and responsive gameplay when players compete against each other online. The main challenge is to synchronize actions between players, who may be located across the globe with varying internet speeds and latencies. Good netcode minimizes delays and discrepancies, providing a near-seamless experience that feels as close to offline play as possible. There are several types of netcode, with 'rollback' netcode being particularly popular for its ability to predict player actions and correct mistakes in real-time, thereby reducing noticeable lag. Poor netcode can result in frustrating experiences, with delayed inputs and desynchronized gameplay, often leading to a loss of player engagement and a tarnished reputation for the game.
Examples
- Street Fighter V: Initially criticized for its poor netcode, which led to frequent lag and disconnections, Capcom later improved it to provide a more stable online experience.
- Mortal Kombat 11: Praised for its implementation of rollback netcode, ensuring that matches felt responsive and fair, even when players were in different regions.
Additional Information
- Rollback netcode can predict and adjust for player inputs, making it more reliable than traditional delay-based netcode.
- A good netcode is essential for competitive play, as it ensures that players' skills are accurately represented without being affected by technical issues.