As the complexity of multiplayer experiences continues to grow, so does the need for robust networking architecture. That’s why Photon Engine has become a key part of the technical toolkit used by our team of technical trouble shooters.
From large-scale simulations to precision-based gameplay, Photon’s suite of technologies has allowed us to build and maintain performant multiplayer systems across a wide range of genres and platforms. But implementing these solutions is never one-size-fits-all. Each project presents unique challenges, and at Magic Media we approach them with tailored strategies, deep technical insight, and a relentless focus on performance.
Meeting the Demands of Large-Scale RTS: Coloniser
Coloniser presented one of our most demanding technical challenges to date. With over 15,000 active combat units and thousands more in structures and NPCs, the game required a highly efficient method of managing real-time data distribution. Photon Fusion’s interest management allowed us to dynamically curate what data was sent to each client, reducing overhead and maintaining clarity. This was particularly seen during complex diplomatic interactions where players required visibility into allied movements.
Beyond this, we implemented custom packet-level optimizations using delta compression and bit-wise data structuring. By reducing bandwidth load and optimizing tick rates to 16 FPS, we achieved the responsiveness required for a real-time strategy experience while minimizing infrastructure cost and latency.
Custom Hosting Solutions and Persistent Worlds
Photon’s compatibility with Unity headless servers gave us the flexibility to tailor our deployment for Coloniser. Whether using cloud-based or bare-metal environments, we configured servers with real-time monitoring, automated scaling, and cost-efficient pause/resume states for inactive worlds.
Determinism and Competitive Fairness in MixMob
In building MixMob, a real-time multiplayer racing card game with blockchain integration, we encountered one of the most nuanced challenges in online gameplay: deterministic consistency across varied client conditions.
Photon Quantum’s fixed-point logic, rollback simulation, and deterministic sync framework allowed us to ensure that gameplay behaved identically across all clients. Using runtime diagnostic tools, we fine-tuned timing systems and minimized latency impacts across regions, particularly vital in a competitive game where card interactions and split-second decisions define the outcome.
Additionally, Quantum’s rollback architecture enabled us to implement a robust anti-cheat framework, combining state validation, checksum verification, and secure blockchain interfacing without exposing sensitive endpoints.
Cross-Platform Optimization in Goombles
Goombles, a real-time action title, needed to perform consistently across Android, iOS, and desktop. Photon Quantum’s prediction and rollback tools allowed us to deliver a responsive and synchronized multiplayer experience, even on unreliable mobile networks.
By configuring regional settings and tuning performance profiles per geography, we minimized latency and reduced jitter. This led to a smoother user experience regardless of location or device—critical for engagement in a fast-paced, skill-based title.
Unified Logic for Multi-Mode Support in Moki Pochi
With Moki Pochi, the goal was to streamline development across both single-player and multiplayer modes using one shared gameplay logic system. Photon’s architecture allowed us to switch configurations without duplicating codebases, saving significant development and QA resources.
This unified architecture also enabled large-scale automated simulations. Using Photon’s time acceleration features, we were able to simulate thousands of concurrent sessions, testing edge cases, validating balance changes, and rapidly iterating on gameplay without relying exclusively on manual QA.
A Technical Partnership That Drives Results
At Magic Media, we approach each multiplayer project as a systems engineering challenge. Our teams dive deep into custom implementation, performance tuning, and security integration, delivering reliable, future-ready multiplayer systems tailored to our partners’ needs.
Whether you’re developing a large-scale strategy title or an innovative real-time experience, we’re equipped to support your multiplayer vision. We offer full-service support for Photon Engine implementation, ensuring your game performs the way players expect.
Get in touch with Magic Media today and in-depth technical knowledge and expertize across a range of gaming services including co-development, art and game porting, amongst others. We are more than an outsourcing provider. We operate as true development partners, capable of managing everything from specific portions of a game all the way to entire pipelines in collaboration with our clients. Together, let’s create magic.
