Introduction
My journey into the intriguing realm of game development took an exciting turn during my first year of university when I became a collaborator on “Exile Online,” a cyberpunk-themed MMORPG. This was a watershed moment for me: my first experience working with an international team and senior developers, and my initial foray into the realm of client-server architectures, all set in a futuristic dystopian world of Erebus.
Technologies Used
- Game Engine: Hero Engine
- Programming Languages: C++, C#, HSL (HeroScript Language)
- Development Tools: Git for version control, pull requests, and pair programming
Project Goals
- Learn client-server architecture in a live game development environment.
- Develop robust multiplayer chat functionalities with various channels.
- Implement a detailed inventory system that includes equipment management and trade features.
Challenges Faced
- Language Barrier: This was my first time working in an international team where English was the primary language of communication.
- Complex Engine: Hero Engine allowed real-time cooperative development, which was both a blessing and a challenge for a junior developer like myself.
Solutions and Approaches
- Mentorship: Leaned on the experience and guidance of senior developers to understand the complexities of Hero Engine and client-server architectures.
- Pair Programming: Used this collaborative approach to code more effectively and learn directly from more experienced teammates.
Key Features
- Multiplayer Chat: Implemented several chat channels including trade, guild, and whispers with customizable filters.
- Inventory and Equipment Management: Designed and coded the systems for managing player inventory, including bags, chests, and trade functionalities.
Outcomes and Impact
- Skill Acquisition: Gained valuable skills in client-server architectures and real-time game development.
- Team Experience: Learned the dynamics of working in a multi-disciplinary, international team, significantly improving my communication and collaboration skills.
Lessons Learned
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Learned the value of diverse skill sets in a team and how each member can contribute to different facets of a complex project.
- Code Review: Understood the importance of pull requests and peer review in maintaining code quality and fostering collective learning.
Future Directions
As I’ve moved on from the project, the Exile Online team continued to enrich the game’s complex world for several years until 2020 when it mostly disappeared from the internet. The videogame industry is a harsh place where a lot of good ideas don’t get enough traction.
Contribution Period
February 2013 to June 2013