Let’s think it through · Start with a story
A girl presses the right arrow, and a player on another computer sees her character move. How did that happen?
Break down the process
- InputA player acts
- Game serviceReceives or checks updates
- SyncSends changes to others
- DisplayEach device draws the scene
Online games exchange actions or state so different devices stay in sync about what is happening.
In many games, a server decides important parts of the game state and sends updates to players. A device may predict or smooth movement, then correct it when an update arrives.
The game does not need to send a screenshot of every frame: each device can draw the scene using its own game rules and assets.
Your turn
If the game’s rules and art are already on each player’s device, does the server need to send a full picture of the scene?
Have an answer? Click to see the explanation
Usually not. It can send actions or state changes, and each device can draw the scene locally. The exact approach depends on the game.
Takeaway
Online games exchange actions or state so different devices stay in sync about what is happening.
Try covering the diagram and explaining each step to someone at home. If a step is hard to explain, go back and look at that card again.