I''m looking for a well-optimizied and preferably easy to use game networking middleware API. I''ve looked at quite a few, but so far I like Raknet and DirectPlay Some important features they are both have: -UDP transportation with options for reliable and/or ordered. -packet throttling -packet encryption/security options -multi-threaded -packet prioritization Some important features RakNet has over DirectPlay; -automatic time stamping support -built in object IDs option -easy to use, great docs, quick to implement Some important features DirectPlay has over RakNet: -message fragmentation and reassembly -congestion control -message timeouts Overall I like RakNet b/c it is is easier and DirectPlay b/c it is more optimized. I''d like to hear some other opinions and information on other game networking middleware APIs. Thanks

hmm... Im using HawkNL right now. DirectPlay is out of the question, because it is not cross platform compatible. I never heard of RakNET before, but it looks pretty nice from the website. Though, I couldnt find on their site how much it costs to license. Unfortunately, I don''t have a budget, so I dont think i would use it. Also, I think it doesnt support Macintosh. I want to make a game that could be easily recompiled to run on Mac, but then refuse to do it. Muhaha. I think Apple is one of the only companies i hate more than Microsoft. not because of their products, though, just their business strategy. Information property laws need to die.

There is a GameDev.net review of four solutions here...
Network middleware comparison


--
Martin Piper
Network programming made easy with ReplicaNet
http://www.ReplicaNet.com/




[edited by - martinpiper on July 22, 2003 4:45:14 AM]