At the heart of any online game is the server design. Having a stable, flexible and reliable server platform provides the firm foundations needed for long-term problem free operations and efficient content updates.
Server Features Summary
- Multiple Platforms
- Dynamic Load Balancing
- Scalability
- Security
- Bandwidth Usage Optimisation
- Advanced Database Technology
- Independent Scripting System
Multiple Platforms
We offer both Windows (32-bit) and Linux powered back-end solutions. This allows the licensor to make the best choice for them. If familiarity with Windows is of primary concern you choose that platform to suit. If minimising back-end costs are of primary importance our Linux solution can offer substantial savings. Our internal technical roadmap lays out a course to bring MTS onto console platforms such as Microsoft’s Xbox 360 and Sony’s PS3.
Dynamic Load-Balancing
Our server architecture is designed to operate as a distributed cluster. Using proprietary techniques, we provide a truly scalable back-end solution that will automatically adapt and distribute server load equally amongst nodes within the cluster. Our advanced load-balancing algorithm is based upon a dynamically changing ‘centre of gravity’ principle so as load changes the cluster automatically adapts and balances accordingly. Using our complimentary proxy server technology, we can seamlessly migrate player connections from burdened servers to those with spare capacity thereby improving the player’s gaming experience. This technique also allows us to apply fault tolerance measures to keep players connected.
Scalability
The server infrastructure is designed with scalability in mind. Subject to the correct hardware installation and game design, a single game world or shard can be configured to run anything from 100 to 1,000,000 concurrent players.
Security
Security is essential with any MMO. Using a 3-tier authentication system involving mutating encryption keys we safeguard against malicious attempts to access the servers. Using industry standard encryption techniques we can systematically detect and reject data packets that have been tampered with ‘in-transit’. Full logging is provided to enable malicious connections to be monitored and interrogated.
Bandwidth Usage Optimisation
Using packet compression and sophisticated data filtering techniques we dynamically minimize network bandwidth. This helps to keep bandwidth costs down and support users with traditional analogue (dial-up) modems.
Advanced Database Technology
Our core database technology is focused on providing a designer-driven architecture that allows games designers the freedom to create and maintain game data independently of the engine. With a powerful cluster-based back-end, the database is optimised both for performance and flexibility.
Independent Scripting System
The server infrastructure is independent of the game itself. Using a high-level scripting system involving just-in-time compilation, designers can control everything from in-game events to NPC artificial intelligence. This removes the reliance upon programmers to provide elements of Gameplay that are best implemented by games designers.
