The world of gaming has come a long way since the days of single-player experiences. With the advent of the internet and the growth of online connectivity, multiplayer gaming has become a staple of the gaming industry. But how does multiplayer work in games? How do players from all over the world connect and compete against each other in real-time? In this article, we will explore the technology behind online gaming competitions and delve into the intricacies of multiplayer gaming. From the underlying infrastructure to the complex algorithms that power online matchmaking, we will uncover the secrets behind the seamless and immersive multiplayer experience that gamers have come to expect. So, get ready to geek out and discover the fascinating world of multiplayer gaming!

The Basics of Multiplayer Games

What is a multiplayer game?

A multiplayer game is a type of game that allows multiple players to interact and compete with each other in a virtual environment. These games can be played online or offline, and they offer a unique social experience that is not available in single-player games.

There are several types of multiplayer games, including:

• Cooperative games: In these games, players work together to achieve a common goal. Examples include “Minecraft” and “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild”.
• Competitive games: In these games, players compete against each other to achieve a goal or to defeat their opponents. Examples include “Super Smash Bros.” and “Street Fighter”.
• Massively multiplayer online games (MMOGs): These games are designed for large numbers of players and often have complex economies, social systems, and quest structures. Examples include “World of Warcraft” and “Eve Online”.
• Sports games: These games simulate real-world sports and allow players to compete against each other in a virtual arena. Examples include “FIFA” and “Madden NFL”.

In the next section, we will explore the technology behind multiplayer games and how it enables players to connect and compete with each other online.

How do players connect?

In order to connect to a multiplayer game, players typically use one of several connection methods. These include:

1. Direct connection: Players connect directly to each other over the internet, with no intermediary servers. This method is often used in local area network (LAN) games, where players are connected to the same network.
2. Peer-to-peer (P2P): Players connect to each other through a P2P network, where each player acts as both a client and a server. This method is often used in file sharing and some multiplayer games.
3. Client-server: Players connect to a central server, which acts as a mediator between the players. This is the most common method used in online multiplayer games.

Regardless of the connection method used, latency can have a significant impact on gameplay. Latency refers to the time delay between a player’s action and the response from the game server. High latency can result in laggy gameplay, where actions are delayed or lost, leading to a less than optimal gaming experience.

Game lobbies and matchmaking

In multiplayer games, players often need to join a game lobby before they can start playing with others. Game lobbies are essentially virtual rooms where players can gather before a game starts. Lobby spaces can vary in size and layout depending on the game, but they generally serve as a social hub where players can interact with each other and prepare for the game.

Matchmaking is the process of connecting players together in a game lobby. This process is essential for creating a fair and balanced game environment, as it ensures that players are paired up with others of similar skill levels. There are different methods for matchmaking, but most games use a combination of player preferences and algorithmic calculations to determine the best matches.

Players can specify their preferences when they join a game lobby, such as their preferred game mode, map, or team size. The matchmaking algorithm then uses this information to find other players who share similar preferences. In addition, the algorithm takes into account other factors, such as a player’s win/loss record, to ensure that they are matched up with players of similar skill levels.

Once a group of players has been matched, they are usually placed into a game lobby together. From there, they can chat with each other, strategize, and prepare for the game. The lobby also serves as a space where players can spectate other games or view replays of their own matches.

Overall, game lobbies and matchmaking are crucial components of multiplayer games, as they help to create a fair and enjoyable gaming experience for all players involved.

Communication in multiplayer games

Effective communication is crucial in multiplayer games as it allows players to coordinate their actions and strategies. In-game chat, voice communication, and text messaging are the primary methods of communication in multiplayer games.

In-game chat

In-game chat is a text-based communication system that allows players to communicate with each other using a chat window within the game interface. In-game chat is typically used for casual communication between players, coordinating actions, and providing strategic advice. Most games have a built-in chat system that can be accessed by pressing a key or clicking on a chat icon.

In-game chat is usually moderated by game developers or volunteers who monitor the chat for inappropriate language or behavior. Some games also allow players to create chat rooms or join existing ones, which can be used to discuss strategy or coordinate actions with other players.

Voice communication

Voice communication is a more immersive form of communication that allows players to communicate with each other using voice and audio. Voice communication is typically used for coordinating actions, providing strategic advice, and socializing with other players.

Many games now offer voice communication through in-game voice chat or third-party voice chat software. Some games also allow players to use headsets or microphones to communicate with other players.

Text messaging

Text messaging is a less common form of communication in multiplayer games, but it can be useful in certain situations. Text messaging is typically used for sending quick messages or reminders to other players, or for communicating with players who are not able to use voice or in-game chat.

Some games allow players to send text messages to each other using a chat window or a messaging system. Other games allow players to send text messages using a mobile app or a web-based interface.

Overall, effective communication is essential in multiplayer games, and players must choose the right communication method for each situation. Whether it’s in-game chat, voice communication, or text messaging, players must be able to communicate effectively with their teammates to achieve success in multiplayer games.

The Technology Behind Multiplayer Games

The importance of network infrastructure

In order to understand the importance of network infrastructure in multiplayer games, it is crucial to comprehend how it impacts gameplay. The network infrastructure serves as the backbone of online gaming, enabling players to connect and engage in real-time interactions with one another.

Without a robust network infrastructure, players would experience lag, latency, and other connectivity issues that can negatively impact their gaming experience. This is because network infrastructure is responsible for transmitting data between players, game servers, and other network components.

Moreover, the role of internet service providers (ISPs) cannot be overstated. ISPs play a critical role in ensuring that data is transmitted quickly and efficiently between players. They achieve this by providing high-speed internet connections and maintaining a reliable network infrastructure that can handle the demands of online gaming.

Additionally, ISPs also work to optimize network traffic, ensuring that gaming data is prioritized and delivered with minimal latency. This is especially important in competitive gaming, where milliseconds can make a difference in the outcome of a match.

Overall, the importance of network infrastructure in multiplayer games cannot be overstated. It is the foundation upon which online gaming is built, and without it, players would not be able to enjoy the real-time, interactive experiences that make multiplayer games so engaging.

How do developers manage server infrastructure?

When it comes to managing server infrastructure for multiplayer games, developers have to carefully balance several factors. This includes ensuring that the servers can handle the number of players, providing a smooth and seamless experience for players, and keeping the servers secure from potential hacking or other security threats.

One of the key roles of game servers is to facilitate communication between players. This means that the servers must be able to handle the transmission of data between players in real-time, as well as ensure that the data is transmitted accurately and securely.

To manage server infrastructure, developers typically use a combination of hardware and software solutions. This may include using cloud-based services to provide scalable and flexible server resources, as well as implementing load balancing techniques to ensure that the servers can handle high levels of traffic.

Load balancing is a critical aspect of managing server infrastructure for multiplayer games. It involves distributing the load of player traffic across multiple servers, which helps to ensure that no single server becomes overwhelmed. This can help to prevent lag or other performance issues that can negatively impact the player experience.

In addition to load balancing, developers may also use other techniques to optimize server performance. This may include implementing caching mechanisms to reduce the load on servers, as well as using content delivery networks (CDNs) to improve the delivery of game assets and other content to players.

Overall, managing server infrastructure for multiplayer games is a complex task that requires careful planning and implementation. By using a combination of hardware and software solutions, as well as implementing best practices for load balancing and other optimization techniques, developers can help to ensure that players have a smooth and enjoyable experience when playing multiplayer games online.

How does latency affect gameplay?

Latency, also known as lag, is the delay between a player’s input and the corresponding action occurring in the game. This delay can have a significant impact on the player’s experience and can even affect the outcome of the game.

Definition of Latency

Latency is the time it takes for data to travel from one point to another. In the context of online gaming, latency refers to the delay between a player’s input and the corresponding action occurring in the game.

The Impact of Latency on Gameplay

Latency can have a significant impact on a player’s experience. High latency can cause delays in gameplay, which can result in slow reaction times, missed actions, and reduced overall performance. This can be particularly frustrating for players who are used to fast and responsive gameplay.

In addition to affecting a player’s performance, latency can also impact the competitive balance of a game. High latency can give players with slower connections an advantage over players with faster connections, as their actions may not be reflected in the game as quickly.

Strategies for Reducing Latency

There are several strategies that game developers and players can use to reduce latency and improve gameplay. One common strategy is to host the game server in a location that is physically close to the majority of the players. This can help reduce the distance that data needs to travel, resulting in lower latency.

Another strategy is to optimize the game’s code and network protocols to reduce the amount of data that needs to be transmitted between the player’s device and the game server. This can help reduce the overall latency of the game.

Players can also take steps to reduce their own latency by using a wired internet connection, closing other applications that may be using bandwidth, and using a high-quality router and modem.

Game synchronization and replication

What is game synchronization?

Game synchronization refers to the process of ensuring that all players in a multiplayer game have the same experience and view of the game world. This includes the positions of in-game objects, the actions of other players, and the state of the game itself. Synchronization is critical to maintaining a seamless and fair multiplayer experience, as it ensures that all players are operating within the same set of rules and conditions.

The importance of game synchronization

Game synchronization is essential for a number of reasons. First and foremost, it ensures that all players have a consistent view of the game world, which is crucial for maintaining fairness and preventing cheating. Without synchronization, players could potentially exploit differences in their views of the game world to gain an unfair advantage over other players. Additionally, synchronization helps to reduce lag and latency in multiplayer games, as it ensures that all players are operating on the same version of the game world and do not need to wait for updates from other players.

Replication and its role in multiplayer games

Replication is the process of copying game data and sending it to multiple servers or clients in order to reduce the load on a single server and improve the performance of a multiplayer game. In many multiplayer games, replication is used to send updates about the game world to all players, rather than requiring each player to request updates from the server. This can help to reduce lag and latency, as it allows players to receive updates more quickly and reduces the amount of data that needs to be transmitted over the network.

However, replication can also introduce synchronization issues if not implemented correctly. For example, if multiple copies of the same data are sent to different players, it can lead to inconsistencies in the game world that can cause confusion or exploits. As such, it is important for game developers to carefully design their replication systems to ensure that they do not introduce synchronization issues or other bugs into the game.

The Psychology of Multiplayer Games

The impact of competition on player behavior

• How competition affects player behavior
  • Competition as a motivating factor in multiplayer games
    • The role of leaderboards and rankings
    • The desire to prove oneself and gain recognition
  • The effects of competition on decision-making
    • Risk-taking behavior
    • Strategic thinking and planning
  • The impact of competition on social interactions
    • Aggression and trash talking
    • Cooperation and teamwork
• Aggression and competition in multiplayer games
  • The role of anonymity in encouraging aggressive behavior
    • The removal of personal accountability
    • The effects of disinhibition
  • The impact of aggression on player experience
    • Negative consequences for victims
    • Desensitization to violence
  • Strategies for managing aggression in multiplayer games
    • Implementing codes of conduct
    • Developing reporting and moderation systems
• Cooperation and teamwork in multiplayer games
  • The benefits of cooperation in multiplayer games
    • Achieving shared goals
    • Building social connections
  • The challenges of cooperation in multiplayer games
    • Managing conflicts within teams
    • Balancing individual and collective goals
  • Strategies for promoting cooperation in multiplayer games
    • Encouraging communication and collaboration
    • Implementing incentives for cooperative behavior

Social dynamics in multiplayer games

• The role of social dynamics in multiplayer games
  • Social dynamics play a crucial role in multiplayer games as they shape the way players interact with each other.
  • These dynamics can range from cooperation to competition, and they are influenced by various factors such as the game’s design, the players’ personalities, and the cultural context.
  • The role of social dynamics in multiplayer games is to create a sense of community and social connection among players, which can enhance their gaming experience and increase their engagement.
• The impact of anonymity on social dynamics
  • Anonymity can have both positive and negative effects on social dynamics in multiplayer games.
  • On the one hand, anonymity can allow players to express themselves freely without fear of judgment or retribution, which can foster more open and diverse communication.
  • On the other hand, anonymity can also lead to toxic behavior and a lack of accountability, which can harm the social dynamics of the game and create a negative gaming experience for some players.
• How developers can encourage positive social interactions
  • Developers can encourage positive social interactions in multiplayer games by designing features that promote cooperation and collaboration among players.
  • For example, developers can include features such as in-game chat rooms, player-to-player trading, and team-based game modes that encourage players to work together towards a common goal.
  • Developers can also use game design techniques such as rewarding players for helping others, providing feedback on positive behavior, and creating a sense of shared purpose to encourage positive social interactions.

How do emotions affect gameplay?

Emotions play a significant role in how players interact with multiplayer games. In this section, we will explore the impact of emotions on gameplay, strategies for managing emotions, and how to promote positive emotions in multiplayer games.

The impact of emotions on gameplay

Emotions can have a profound impact on how players approach and interact with multiplayer games. For example, feelings of frustration or anger can lead to aggressive behavior and negatively impact the overall gaming experience. On the other hand, positive emotions such as excitement and joy can enhance players’ engagement and motivation to continue playing.

Moreover, emotions can influence a player’s decision-making process and impact their ability to strategize and communicate with other players. Emotions can also affect the way players perceive other players and their actions, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts within the game.

Managing emotions in multiplayer games

Managing emotions is an essential skill for players who want to have a positive gaming experience in multiplayer games. One way to manage emotions is by taking breaks when necessary and engaging in activities that promote relaxation and stress relief. Additionally, setting realistic expectations and avoiding unhealthy competition can help players maintain a positive attitude and reduce the impact of negative emotions.

Communication is also key in managing emotions in multiplayer games. Players should be encouraged to communicate openly and honestly with other players, expressing their thoughts and feelings in a respectful manner. This can help to build trust and establish positive relationships within the game.

Strategies for promoting positive emotions

Promoting positive emotions in multiplayer games can enhance players’ engagement and motivation to continue playing. One strategy is to design games that are fun and engaging, with a focus on rewarding players for their achievements and accomplishments.

Another strategy is to encourage players to collaborate and work together towards a common goal. This can help to foster a sense of community and shared purpose, leading to a more positive gaming experience.

Furthermore, games can incorporate features that promote social interaction and positive feedback, such as in-game chat systems and rewards for helping other players. These features can help to create a more supportive and inclusive gaming environment, promoting positive emotions and enhancing players’ overall experience.

Best Practices for Multiplayer Games

How can developers ensure fair play?

One of the biggest challenges that developers face when creating multiplayer games is ensuring that all players have a fair and equal experience. Cheating can be a major issue in online gaming, and it can significantly impact the overall enjoyment of the game for all players.

In order to prevent cheating, developers can implement a number of different strategies. For example, they can use anti-cheat software to detect and prevent cheating in real-time. This software can scan the game for suspicious behavior, such as players using third-party programs or manipulating the game code.

Another strategy that developers can use is to implement fair play policies. These policies can include rules about what types of behavior are acceptable in the game, as well as consequences for players who violate these rules. For example, players may be banned from the game if they are caught cheating, or they may be given a warning before being temporarily suspended.

In addition to anti-cheat software and fair play policies, developers can also take other steps to ensure that all players have a fair and equal experience. For example, they can implement matchmaking systems that pair players with others of similar skill levels, or they can create a system for reporting cheating players to game moderators.

Overall, ensuring fair play in multiplayer games is essential for creating a positive and enjoyable experience for all players. By implementing strategies such as anti-cheat software, fair play policies, and matchmaking systems, developers can help to create a level playing field and prevent cheating in online gaming competitions.

How can developers promote healthy competition?

Promoting healthy competition is crucial for creating a positive and engaging multiplayer experience. Developers can use various strategies to encourage healthy competition, which can lead to a more enjoyable experience for players. Here are some of the best practices that developers can follow:

• The impact of healthy competition on player behavior

Healthy competition can have a positive impact on player behavior, leading to increased engagement and loyalty. When players feel that they are competing in a fair and balanced environment, they are more likely to stay engaged and continue playing the game. This can lead to increased revenue for the developer, as well as a stronger community around the game.

• Strategies for promoting healthy competition

There are several strategies that developers can use to promote healthy competition in their games. Some of these include:

1. Clearly defined rules and objectives: Players need to understand the rules and objectives of the game to be able to compete fairly. Developers should ensure that the rules are clearly communicated and that players understand what they are trying to achieve.
2. Balanced gameplay: Developers should strive to create a balanced gameplay experience, where players have a fair chance of winning regardless of their skill level. This can be achieved through a variety of techniques, such as matchmaking algorithms and skill-based progression.
3. Transparent leaderboards: Leaderboards can be a powerful tool for promoting healthy competition, but they need to be transparent and accurate. Developers should ensure that the leaderboards are updated in real-time and that players are able to see how they compare to others.
4. Rewards and incentives: Developers can use rewards and incentives to encourage healthy competition, such as in-game items or virtual currency. These rewards should be based on player performance and should be achievable by all players, regardless of their skill level.

5. Social features: Developers can encourage healthy competition by adding social features to the game, such as chat rooms or forums. These features can help players connect with each other and create a sense of community around the game.

6. How developers can encourage positive competition

Developers can encourage positive competition by creating a culture of respect and fair play. This can be achieved through a variety of techniques, such as:

1. Clear communication: Developers should communicate regularly with players and be transparent about game updates and changes. This can help build trust and create a sense of community around the game.
2. Moderation: Developers should have moderators in place to ensure that players are not engaging in cheating or other unethical behavior. This can help maintain a fair and balanced competitive environment.
3. Positive reinforcement: Developers can use positive reinforcement to encourage healthy competition, such as highlighting players who have shown good sportsmanship or excellent performance. This can help create a positive culture around the game.

Overall, promoting healthy competition is essential for creating a positive and engaging multiplayer experience. By following these best practices, developers can create a competitive environment that is fair, balanced, and rewarding for all players.

How can developers promote inclusivity in multiplayer games?

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of inclusivity in the gaming industry. As more and more people are turning to online gaming as a form of entertainment, it is essential that developers take steps to ensure that all players feel welcome and included in the gaming community. In this section, we will explore how developers can promote inclusivity in multiplayer games.

• The importance of inclusivity in multiplayer games

Inclusivity is essential in multiplayer games because it ensures that all players feel welcome and included in the gaming community. This means creating a safe and welcoming environment for players of all backgrounds, races, genders, and sexual orientations. By promoting inclusivity, developers can create a more diverse and vibrant gaming community that is accessible to everyone.

• Strategies for promoting inclusivity

There are several strategies that developers can use to promote inclusivity in multiplayer games. One of the most effective strategies is to create a diverse cast of characters that reflects the diversity of the real world. This includes creating characters of different races, genders, and sexual orientations, as well as characters with disabilities.

Another strategy is to create inclusive game environments that are free from harassment and discrimination. This can be achieved by implementing strict community guidelines that prohibit hate speech and discriminatory behavior. Developers can also create reporting mechanisms that allow players to report any instances of harassment or discrimination.

• Best practices for creating inclusive game environments

There are several best practices that developers can follow to create inclusive game environments. One of the most important is to listen to the community and take their feedback seriously. This means creating a space for players to provide feedback and suggestions for improving the game’s inclusivity.

Another best practice is to create a diverse development team that reflects the diversity of the gaming community. This ensures that the game is designed with inclusivity in mind from the very beginning. Developers can also partner with organizations that promote diversity and inclusivity in the gaming industry.

In conclusion, promoting inclusivity in multiplayer games is essential for creating a safe and welcoming environment for all players. By implementing strategies such as creating a diverse cast of characters, implementing strict community guidelines, and creating inclusive game environments, developers can create a more diverse and vibrant gaming community that is accessible to everyone.

The Future of Multiplayer Games

Emerging trends in multiplayer games

The impact of emerging technologies on multiplayer games

The future of multiplayer games is constantly evolving with the advancement of new technologies. One of the most significant trends is the integration of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and big data analytics. These technologies can enhance the overall gaming experience by providing personalized recommendations, improving matchmaking, and detecting cheating.

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) in multiplayer games

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are becoming increasingly popular in the gaming industry, and they have the potential to revolutionize the way we play multiplayer games. VR and AR technologies can create immersive gaming experiences that simulate real-world environments, allowing players to interact with each other in new and exciting ways. This technology can also enhance social interactions and teamwork among players, leading to more engaging and dynamic gameplay.

Cloud gaming and its potential impact on multiplayer games

Cloud gaming is another emerging trend that has the potential to transform the multiplayer gaming experience. Cloud gaming allows players to access games through the internet, rather than downloading and installing them on their devices. This technology can enable smoother multiplayer experiences, reduce lag, and provide better matchmaking capabilities. Additionally, cloud gaming can enable new business models, such as subscription-based gaming services, which can provide players with access to a wide range of games without the need for expensive hardware.

Overall, the future of multiplayer games is shaping up to be an exciting and dynamic space, with emerging technologies driving innovation and improving the overall gaming experience.

Challenges and opportunities for multiplayer games

As the popularity of multiplayer games continues to grow, so too do the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. Here are some of the key issues that will shape the future of multiplayer games:

Security and privacy concerns

One of the biggest challenges facing multiplayer games is security and privacy. As more and more personal data is collected and stored by game developers and publishers, there is a growing risk of data breaches and cyber attacks. This is particularly concerning given the sensitive nature of the data being collected, which can include personal information, login credentials, and even credit card details.

To address these concerns, game developers and publishers must take steps to ensure that player data is securely stored and protected. This may involve implementing robust security measures such as encryption and two-factor authentication, as well as being transparent about data collection and usage practices.

The impact of regulation on multiplayer games

Another challenge facing the multiplayer game industry is regulation. As governments around the world begin to take a closer look at the gaming industry, there is a risk that new regulations could be introduced that could impact the way multiplayer games are designed and played.

For example, some governments have proposed introducing laws that would require game developers to include certain features in their games, such as parental controls or in-game warnings about the potential harmful effects of playing. Other governments have proposed introducing taxes on the sale of video games, which could impact the profitability of the industry.

As such, game developers and publishers must stay up-to-date with changes in regulation and be prepared to adapt their games accordingly.

Opportunities for innovation and growth in the multiplayer game industry

Despite these challenges, there are also many opportunities for innovation and growth in the multiplayer game industry. For example, as technology continues to advance, there is a growing opportunity to create more immersive and realistic multiplayer experiences. This could include the use of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies, which could allow players to experience games in new and exciting ways.

In addition, the rise of mobile gaming presents new opportunities for multiplayer games. As more and more people turn to their smartphones and tablets as their primary gaming devices, there is a growing demand for multiplayer games that can be played on the go.

Overall, while the future of multiplayer games is uncertain, there are many opportunities for innovation and growth in the industry. By staying up-to-date with changes in regulation and technology, and by embracing new opportunities for innovation, game developers and publishers can continue to create engaging and exciting multiplayer experiences for years to come.

FAQs

1. How does multiplayer work in games?

Multiplayer in games refers to the ability of two or more players to play a game together over a network connection. This can be done through a variety of technologies, including peer-to-peer networking, client-server architecture, and dedicated server hosting. In most cases, players connect to a central server that manages the game state and facilitates communication between players.

2. What are the benefits of multiplayer in games?

Multiplayer games offer a number of benefits, including the ability to play with friends and other players from around the world, increased replayability and challenge, and the opportunity to form communities and competitive teams. Multiplayer games also often have more complex and interesting gameplay mechanics than single-player games, as they require players to coordinate and strategize with one another.

3. What types of multiplayer games are there?

There are many different types of multiplayer games, including first-person shooters, real-time strategy games, sports games, and massively multiplayer online games (MMOs). Some games support multiplayer through local area network (LAN) connections, while others use online services to connect players over the internet.

4. How do I get started with multiplayer games?

To get started with multiplayer games, you will need a gaming console or computer with an internet connection, as well as the game itself. Many games have built-in multiplayer functionality, and some may require the purchase of additional software or subscriptions to play online. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the game’s controls and rules before jumping into a multiplayer match.

5. Are there any age restrictions for playing multiplayer games?

Age restrictions for playing multiplayer games vary depending on the game and the platform it is played on. Some games may have age restrictions due to violent or mature content, while others may be suitable for all ages. It’s important to check the age restrictions for a particular game before allowing children to play it.

6. How does lag affect multiplayer games?

Lag, or the delay between a player’s input and the corresponding action in the game, can negatively impact the performance and enjoyment of multiplayer games. Lag can be caused by a variety of factors, including network congestion, distance between players, and hardware limitations. Some games include features to mitigate lag, such as automatic latency-based matchmaking and optimized server placement.

7. What is a dedicated server?

A dedicated server is a server that is dedicated to running a particular game or service. In the context of multiplayer games, a dedicated server is used to host the game and manage the game state, as well as facilitate communication between players. Dedicated servers can offer improved performance and stability compared to peer-to-peer networking, as they can handle the processing and networking tasks more efficiently.

How Multiplayer Games Work