Network performance measurement framework for real-time multiplayer mobile games

Abstract

Player satisfaction with real-time multiplayer mobile games is correlated with performance of the communications network. The network is the most dynamic component of such games; congestion and channel loss figure prominently in achieving bounds required for real-time response. If messages cannot be delivered on-time, game developers must use predictive techniques to maintain the game experience. Additional complexity in game play requiring more bandwidth and/or processing could be possible under favourable network conditions. In this paper, we provide a light weight, embedded measurement framework that obtains frame rate, one-way latency, and frame duration within a game session. The captured data can be used by game designers to tune game complexity and to manage predictive algorithm parameters. Game designers use these predictive algorithms to maintain an approximation of what occurs in real-time, despite delays from network transmission. Our initial test results show that we are able to obtain the necessary information efficiently and note that the game deployed in our case study experiences occasional large delays.