Author Topic: My request to improve gameplay  (Read 275 times)

Offline g00b

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My request to improve gameplay
« on: July 20, 2004, 04:43:11 PM »
Please double the update rates in the network code. We are seeing HUGE warps on a regular basis in the MA now. Seems to be mostly when they are just about icon range and updating infrequently, dots will jump/teleport 1-2K regularly and I've seen jumps of up to 4K. I don't think these people have bad connects or anything, just maybe the server gets a bit overloaded and the path prediction says he went one way right when he turns the other, and the next time it updates, "poing" we get a 3K teleport. Makes setting up for an initial move very difficult.

I understand that this will have a direct cost because of the increased bandwidth and server hardware requirements. However I feel as a long time customer, since beta, the network/gameplay has been subpar in the last year or so. So in summary I have two suggesions that I feel would have a very positive impact in the game.

1. Simply double the number of network updates. I know how it increases as you get closer, and the final rate of updates seems to work fine, but double everything before (and maybe including) the max update rate.

2. Smooth out dot warps/teleports. When a dot's position updates, can it be checked for unreasonable movement? i.e. 1000mph or more and smoothed somehow? Just very tired of losing vis on someone when they teleport behind one of my windshield supports or warp in from beyond icon range to 2K away.

I have videos to prove this level of warpage is a regular thing. I am a network admin, have DSL with a good connect, and note that most of these warps are visable to all. So I don't think it's only my problem or imagination.

Please guys, consider it. I would pay $19.95, and most others would too I'd wager, for a smoother non-warpy gaming experience.

g00b

Offline Furious

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My request to improve gameplay
« Reply #1 on: July 20, 2004, 05:03:55 PM »
Also, blink the icons of players with bad connects and if a connect is sufficiently bad, drop the player from the arena with a message explaining the reason.

Offline Innominate

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My request to improve gameplay
« Reply #2 on: July 22, 2004, 02:50:42 PM »
It's amazing how bad of a connection Ah will let you get away with.  The TCP switch makes it even worse, by making it easier for those with severely broken connections to stay online.

I've occasionally gotten timing bugs which screw up my variance in the net status.  When this happens everyone anywhere near me starts warping constantly, moving a thousand yards at a time.  It can be fixed by just relogging, but the simple fact is that when someones connection gets like that, they should NOT remain connected to the game.