How does programming a multiplayer Java game differ from non-Java?
What are the main benefits and restrictions? Marta Gabnai: Panumbra is server-based with a Java client. Everything is processed and validated on the server, which is where our main advantage lies. The server uses all cutting-edge technologies to make it expandable and scalable. We aren’t graphics experts, and are not trying to compete in that area. Our engine has some exceptional advantages. One is expandability. Everything is data-based and highly parameterized, so that you can add world areas, monsters, items, races, templates, even skills without adding or modifying one single line of code. Scalability means that the server load can be distributed over a network of computers. If load gets high on one server, we just move some areas to another machine. More people? Just add more servers…. and the world still looks continuous. Maintainability. The system is very complex. We could not have done it without a formalized object-oriented software methodology, and the appropriate design t
