Last updated by Sofia Vaca Narvaja, April 23rd 2025
In Unity, networking refers to the system that enables multiple devices to communicate and synchronize data in real-time. This is essential for multiplayer experiences as it allows players to interact within the same virtual environment, whether they're in the same physical space or across the globe.
For co-located multiplayer, where players are physically present in the same area, networking ensures that all participants see consistent virtual content, interact seamlessly, and experience synchronized gameplay.
Real-Time Synchronization: Ensuring that all users see and interact with the same virtual objects simultaneously.
Spatial Alignment: Maintaining consistent positioning of virtual elements across different devices in the same physical space.
Low Latency Communication: Facilitating immediate feedback and interaction between users.
Session Management: Handling user connections, disconnections, and session persistence.
Tools or libraries that provide the necessary infrastructure to implement multiplayer functionality in Unity applications. They can handle complex tasks such as data transmission (send and receive information between devices), state synchronization (consistent view of the game world) and session management (player connections, disconnections).
Netcode for GameObjects: Unity's official solution for multiplayer networking, suitable for small to medium-sized projects.
Photon Fusion 2: A high-performance networking solution optimized for real-time multiplayer experiences.
Comparing them: