Hello, I would like to buy a book for programming a network game, but after looking at the highest rated book in the book section about programming a network game (MultiPlayer Game Programming by Todd Barron) I dont know whether to get it or not as some people seem to really like it and other really dislike it. I have made a few simple games before using OpenGL and Java but this is the first time that I would be using Networking in a game. Any opinions from people with some experience with the books, I would be most greatful Thanks in advance, Ian Ps. If its any use, my intention is to make a relatively simple FirstPerson game in order to learn a few new techniques.

All depends what you want to do IMHO.

If you''re wanting a java-oriented network programming book, then MGP ISN''T the right option.

But don''t evaluate/disregard the book because the author used Direct3D..(which is what I''m sensing from your comment about OpenGL)..

Get the book because it discusses both winsock and directplay8, with a heavier influence on directplay8..

There''s a REAL lack of material available for directplay8 (ie. how to use in a real-game situation), but I found that MGP made a great start in putting some things together.

The architecture of DPlay8 now makes more sense to me after getting that book..

I haven''t read his newer one yet about making a networked RTS game, so I can''t comment on that one.