Using TCP and UDP for java game

Question

I am making a real-time java game for my friends to play on LAN. The game is working in a client-server architecture, and it is using UDP for everything right now (for both position updates and joining to the game). When I tested the game with my friend over the Internet, a few important UDP packets were lost (like the one that is for spawning enemy).

So my question is, what is the best solution for making real-time multiplayer games, work? Can I use UDP for the necesarry update packets and TCP for packets like log-in, disconnect, chat etc. ? Can i use both protocol on the same port and socket?

Answer 1

Your best bet is just to use TCP. In addition to providing the resend capabilities for you, so you won't have to write them yourself, along with a host off other good features, TCP will also make it a lot easier to deal with routers and firewalls.

I do recommend turning off the Nagle algorithm so data is always sent immediately.

Answer 2

Just want to help any passers by that stumble on the incredible bad advice given in the other answers. Sorry, I am sure it is well meaning. Do NOT use TCP in games if you have any kind of realtime aspect to it. You will regret it at some point down the road.

What you want is to implement reliability/connections over UDP. Gaffer on Games have an excellent series on this topic. I cordially recommend everyone interested in this topic to read the whole series. Here's a link to the post describing "connections" over UDP: https://gafferongames.com/post/virtual_connection_over_udp/

And you're in luck - they even implemented all of this in an open source library <3 https://github.com/networkprotocol/yojimbo

Answer 3

you can combine both.Sometimes you may want reliable data ,that time you need TCp.Sometimes its not required so that time u can use UDP.Combine the both.