desync

Desync is a term commonly used in the context of online multiplayer games to describe a situation where the game state on one player's computer becomes out of synchronization with the game state on another player's computer or the game server. This can lead to various issues, such as characters or objects appearing in different locations for different players, or actions not being registered correctly.

Desync can occur due to several reasons, including network latency, packet loss, or discrepancies in how the game handles updates from the server. In some cases, desync can be temporary and resolve itself as the game state updates, while in other cases, it can persist and significantly impact gameplay.

There are different types of desync, depending on the game and the nature of the issue. For example, "positional desync" refers to characters or objects being in different positions for different players, while "hit registration desync" refers to discrepancies in whether or not a hit or attack is registered.

To mitigate desync, game developers may implement various techniques, such as client-side prediction, server reconciliation, or lag compensation. Players can also help reduce desync by ensuring they have a stable internet connection and by minimizing background processes that may interfere with the game.

In some cases, desync can be exploited by players to gain an unfair advantage, leading to accusations of cheating or hacking. However, it's important to note that desync is often a natural consequence of the complexities involved in synchronizing game states across multiple clients and a server in a real-time, online environment.