With the rising demand for connected experiences on consoles, players are increasingly drawn toward games that offer robust multiplayer features. As a result, multiplayer gaming on consoles continues to gain momentum, offering huge opportunity to boost player engagement. This trend underscores the need for game developers to deliver high-quality multiplayer experiences on consoles that keep players engaged and invested.
When Agate’s porting team took on the challenge of bringing ArcRunner to consoles, it stood out with its sci-fi cyberpunk style, a fresh genre for the Indonesian market. It was also one of the first third-person multiplayer shooters we had the opportunity to port, making this project exciting to test our crew capability.
This project added another successful Unreal Engine title to our portfolio, moving beyond prototypes to a fully released game. It also expanded our expertise as we were venturing into new territory by bringing ArcRunner to Xbox Series S/X dan PlayStation 5.
Overcoming Challenges, One Step at a Time
When we joined the ArcRunner project, the project was already in progress, but some significant challenges had stalled its development. At this point, we knew we had to step in and turn things around.
Setup Multiplayer on Console
To be able to setup multiplayer, there are libraries need to be setup on the game and the backend.
Performance Optimization
At the beginning, we set our priority for performance optimization. The game was struggling with low FPS and delivering a smooth and responsive experience was crucial for a fast-paced shooter like ArcRunner.
Localization
Localization also presented unexpected hurdles. Two language codes that were strikingly similar caused conflicts in the game’s text system. We dove into the intricacies of the localization process, ensuring every piece of text was displayed correctly and consistently across all regions.
How We Made It Happen
With its fast-paced multiplayer gameplay, we encountered and overcame unique challenges that tested our expertise. By diving into multiplayer library manuals and customizing configurations, we brought multiplayer features to ArcRunner for each console. Our solutions to the challenges included:
Setup Multiplayer Libraries
Each console has their way to setup for multiplayer libraries. We must get familiar with that. We must also handle console invitation and disconnection case.
Preventing Session Leaks
Development servers ensure safe testing environments, avoiding unintended live interactions. When it is submitted to platform certification, we must change it to Live Server.
Platform Compliance
From decoding C++ libraries & Unreal blueprint, crafting consoles invitation handlers to implementing UI adjustment, we tested and addressed every edge case, including disconnection scenarios and library that must be called per session.
Performance Optimization
We analyzed console performance metrics, adjusting visuals and recreating shaders for consistent quality across platforms. Generating LOD, optimize textures, recreate post process, and lighting adjustment are part of jobs. We also need to inspect the root causes when stutter happens.
Adding new features
Adding new features like vibrations and adaptive trigger to enrich the gameplay when getting hit or trigger the weapons. Besides that, we also need to implement some mandatory console features.
Rendering Innovations
Shader compatibility issues were solved through creative exploration of rendering options. Some consoles also need to be adjusted in color because there are differences in color result.
Localization Adjustment
We need to add some new words to localization table for achievement, terminology, and new UI that we create.
However, beyond overcoming the technical challenges, all the success of this project was attributed to the result of strategic planning, collaboration, and relentless effort. We started by sharpening our expertise, conducting knowledge-sharing sessions with industry veterans who have extensive experience in multiplayer development. This investment gives our team the technical foundation needed to address ArcRunner’s unique challenges.
“Success in a complex project like this comes down to meticulous planning and strong collaboration. By setting clear milestones and giving each team member ownership of a specific platform, we turned challenges into a well-orchestrated process,” said Aswin Juari, Tech Director of Porting Services at Agate.
A Project That Redefined Our Capabilities
Through ArcRunner, we didn’t just port a game but also grew as a team. We pushed our technical skills, expanded our platform expertise, and strengthened our abilities to deliver complex multiplayer experiences. This project wasn’t just about overcoming obstacles, but it was also about testing our capability and setting a new standard for what we do.
If you’re looking for a partner who brings passion, expertise, and dedication to every project, Agate is ready to help you bring your game to new heights. Reach out to us at contact@agate.id, and let’s create something extraordinary together.
