Multiplayer platforms like Minecraft and Apex Legends have transformed the gaming world, turning what was once an isolated experience into a first-hand lesson on teamwork, community, and hive minds. As many as 180 million users sign into these games monthly, and skill really is the name of the game for holding your own in this competitive landscape.
Unfortunately, even the most skilled players can find their games ruined by one unfortunately common setback. Lag, which is commonly caused by server or internet problems, can entirely derail the best-planned moves, leading to chaos, frustration, and most heartbreakingly of all, team losses.
Luckily, there are ways to combat lag, including seeking a faster internet connection or high-quality game server hosting. These may seem like rather extreme adjustments to make, but, for proof that they’re worthwhile, keep on reading to find out exactly why lag is leaving you in last place.
# 1 – Communication Setbacks
Multiplayer gaming is not about simply sitting in your bedroom alone. It should be a communal process, and communication is key. For instance, the ability to easily communicate with your Minecraft team in real-time is key to the coordination, problem-solving, and storytelling on which your game rests. And those are benefits you’ll want to maximize.
If your connection is constantly lagging, then you’ll be throwing significant communication setbacks into the mix. This could see you out of time with your team, leading you to become a liability that nobody wants to play alongside. Not to mention that, when you can’t fully engage in the social aspects of gameplay, you’re missing out on one of the best benefits of games like these!
# 2 – Unpredictable Outcomes
Lag means that, even if your moves are technically right, they could happen out of sequence, at the wrong time, or not at all. This is annoying to say the least, and could leave you feeling like there’s no point playing. You certainly won’t win, even if your inputs are impeccable.
This lack of predictability can become especially problematic in a combat-based multiplayer like Street Fighter, where you’ll inevitably lose every fight. Before you know it, you could stop reaching for these kinds of games altogether, just because lag keeps getting in your way.
# 3 – Lack of Immersion
The immersive quality of multiplayers is a large part of why we love them. In fact, few other gaming experiences can keep you hooked and coming back for as long as a well-designed, teamwork-based multiplayer might. But, you know what could smash right through that immersion? We’re talking about lag, of course.
Let’s face it, you’re never going to get lost in the game if you’re constantly dealing with slow loading or unexpected sign-outs. You’re more likely to lose your temper, lose the thread of the storyline, and leave the game with no intention of returning.
Conclusion
It’s official – lag is guaranteed to let you down in the multiplayer world. So, take steps to address the problem before you fall foul of setbacks like these!
