Re: Game Loop and Simulation

[Steve Baker <sjbaker1@airmail.net>]

Alan Chen wrote:
> 
> I agree.  I should have emphasized the difference
> more.
> The question was directed at syncronization of several
> simulations, I was trying to point the poster to
> techniques that DIS type simulations use to
> synchronize events -- not necessarily suggesting DIS
> for use as a gaming protocol.  Sorry if I wasn't
> clear.

Oh - I see!  DIS certainly uses pretty much standard
extrapolation techniques that are pretty much essential
for networked interactive setups like games.

> I should note that there are related problems with a
> standard client-server setup. A dishonest client can
> cause just almost as many problems as a dishonest or
> malfunctioning peer.  Does anyone have info on
> solutions for that?

Encrypt the comms protocol and don't distribute
the sources!

But yes - for games where the sources are available,
or for which the comms protocol is 'obvious', there is
a risk of people cheating that's hard to avoid.
 
The problem with serverless protocols like DIS goes
deeper though.  Even a legal client can mess up the
simulation just by exiting without negotiation with
the other clients.

-- 
Steve Baker                  http://web2.airmail.net/sjbaker1
sjbaker1@airmail.net (home)  http://www.woodsoup.org/~sbaker
sjbaker@hti.com      (work)