Re: [Algorithms] Multiuser synch

[Jon W. <jw...@gm...>]

Danny Kodicek wrote:
> We're developing an online demo system within our software that allows one
> user (the 'shepherd') to take control of a group of other computers (the
> 'sheep'). It's important that the software remains in synch, otherwise the
> actions the shepherd takes may not replicate correctly. So what we need is a
> simple one-way synch algorithm.
>   

First, you need to run physics at a fixed rate everywhere, not tie it to 
the graphics frame rate. See 
http://www.b500.com/~hplus/graphics/game_loop.html for example.

Second, you probably want to use the lock-step network sync method. See 
the "1,500" archers article for a great introduction: 
http://www.gamasutra.com/view/feature/3094/1500_archers_on_a_288_network_.php

Once that's done, if you still have questions, you may want to check out 
the FAQ for Multiplayer and Networking over at gamedev.net; it has more 
networking and multiplayer references (all the way from basics, through 
classics, to avant-garde): 
http://www.gamedev.net/community/forums/showfaq.asp?forum_id=15

Hope this helps!

Sincerely,

jw