Mitmikmäng

Mitmikmäng, or multiplayer game, denotes a category of video games designed for simultaneous participation by more than one player. Players interact within a shared game world or session, typically via a network connection. It differs from single‑player or local multiplayer titles that involve one device or a fixed screen.

Mitmikmängud can be broadly categorized as cooperative and competitive. In cooperative games players work together to achieve common goals, while in competitive games players or teams face each other. Some titles use persistent online worlds with many participants, whereas others rely on short, match‑based sessions.

Technical foundations include platforms (online, LAN, or couch co‑op), network architecture (client‑server vs peer‑to‑peer), and synchronization of game state. Latency, bandwidth, and server capacity affect responsiveness and fairness. Most mitmikmängud employ matchmaking, player progression, and measures to prevent cheating.

Design considerations cover scalability, balance across roles, progression systems, and social features such as chat and clans. Moderation and safety are important for large or younger audiences. Accessibility and cross‑platform play can broaden participation across devices and connection qualities.

Historically, multiplayer gameplay progressed from local hot‑seat and LAN play to online services in the 1990s and 2000s, leading to massively multiplayer online games (MMOs) and a diverse ecosystem of titles. Notable examples include World of Warcraft, Fortnite, and Among Us.