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Multi‐device, multi‐player gaming: issues and application

Danny C. Cheng (College of Computer Studies, De La Salle University, Manila, The Philippines)
Allan Christopher S. Chu (College of Computer Studies, De La Salle University, Manila, The Philippines)

The Electronic Library

ISSN: 0264-0473

Article publication date: 1 October 2005

1929

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to present the different issues that must be tackled when creating a viable multi‐user, multi‐device game. The issues tackled range from user interaction issues to graphics quality to bandwidth constraints. The paper also aims to present different configurations depending on the type of game to be created and a strategy for network gaming using heterogeneous devices focusing on the development of a game that allows users of mobile devices and desktop computers to interact and compete on a single domain.

Design/methodology/approach

A tank battle game was developed that plays the same game across both a mobile device such as a phone/PDA and a desktop counterpart.

Findings

Although there is a sacrifice in the richness of the game environment on mobile devices, it is possible to develop games that play across platforms and devices, and safeguards can be put in place in order not to overly handicap players using mobile devices.

Research limitations/implications

The research focused on a single type of game. It would be ideal to attempt such work on other game genres or platforms. The implications of such work would be that the ubiquity of game play could be extended and the overall gaming experience improved.

Originality/value

This paper allows game developers to rethink the possibilities as they develop new games.

Keywords

Citation

Cheng, D.C. and Chu, A.C.S. (2005), "Multi‐device, multi‐player gaming: issues and application", The Electronic Library, Vol. 23 No. 5, pp. 521-532. https://doi.org/10.1108/02640470510631236

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2005, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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