Learning Networking

Networking & Multiplayer
#1

Hi, I’m curious as to where I should go to learn networking.

Background Information: I’ve learned and skipped around with the basics of Java and I’ve been programming with Slick2D for a while.

I’ll start off by reading through http://docs.oracle.com/javase/tutorial/networking/TOC.html and some standard Google searching.

  1. Does anyone know of another good place for me to learn networking?

JGO’s Java Gaming Resources then lists KryoNet, RedDwarf, and Narya as networking libraries.

  1. If I wanted to make a multiplayer game with Slick2D (possibly libGDX) should I use one of the three libraries listed above or make my own networking structure?

Sorry if this question has been asked before, thanks for any help.

#2

I recommend Kryonet. I started using it like 2 weeks ago without any networking knowledge and already have multiplayer going in my game.
Allthough I will probably stop with that game because I jumped right into it before getting some information on how to best design a networking structure.

TL,DR: Kryonet

#3

definitely use kryonet. I’ve found some good tutorials on kryonet you should check out (they are still being made) Client: http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6D7B626119C9F5C1&feature=plcp Server: http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLAD61972769BBF80E&feature=plcp

I used these and the have helped me out in using packets so far.

Hope this helps

#4

I don’t know if it is good to start learning networking by using a specific toolkit …

Maybe you want to learn about the diffirent approaches to networking first?

A client-server system with fat or thin clients, peer-to-peer networking, code structures which allow partial desyncs between clients without causing problems, or enforcying synced client data all the time. There is more, I just wanted to give some ideas.

I think it’s better to know the pros and cons of your choice before you choose.

#5

Once you’re familiar with basic networking aspects and want to get familiar with real time networking, this is the article for you, straight from Valve.

#6

Awesome. Thanks everyone for the feedback, I’ll make sure to properly learn about networking before fully using Kryonet.