Saltlag

Saltlag is a term used to describe the lag or delay experienced when interacting with online multiplayer games that rely on a peer-to-peer network architecture. This delay is caused by the time it takes for data packets to travel between players' computers, also known as latency. In a peer-to-peer system, each player's computer acts as both a client and a server, communicating directly with other players. This decentralized approach can lead to inconsistencies in gameplay if players have significantly different connection speeds or are geographically distant.

When saltlag occurs, players might observe actions happening later than they were performed, leading to a disjointed and frustrating experience. For example, a player might appear to be shot after they have already moved behind cover, or their movements might not register immediately. This phenomenon is distinct from server-based lag, which occurs when a central game server is overloaded or has high latency. While both result in delays, the underlying network topology is different. Developers often implement various techniques to mitigate saltlag, such as client-side prediction and lag compensation, to provide a smoother gameplay experience for all participants. However, the effectiveness of these methods can vary depending on the game's implementation and the players' network conditions.