Update delayed for few days, here is why

Update delayed for few days, here is why

Helle everyone,

I was hard at work last weeks to push the next big update. It's delayed for few days, because I can't test my new multiplayer integration. That's why the next update will be single player only.

The problem with the current Network stack

The game was built arround a multiplayer architecture allowing me to use any network framework. The current version uses Photon PUN2, it's super easy to use, however, it's going to be deprecated (yes it's an old one). The replacement from Photon is Fusion, it's still in RC (Release Candidate) but it's pretty solid. I use it on another project for my day job and I like it. 

BUT, recently Unity has released a new set of services and frameworks to build multiplayer apps. The price is VERY interesting for an indie dev like me. There are also many great services, such as authentication, relay, voice chat, etc..

Right now I'm not sure about what is best for you, the players. Unity Netcode will allows me to connect more players into the game, but Unity products/services are full of bugs :'( Photon Fusion is a great framework that works very well (I use it since the public BETA) but pricing is definitly higher.

My vision of multiplayer in DVR Simulator

Because DVR Simulator is mainly a simulator using VR, it's important that you can enjoy it with friends. That's why I've integrated Ready Player Me avatars. I also want to keep a solid and quick single player experience.

It's not an easy choice, which is driven by money... If you have experience with Unity Netcode (MLAPI) and Photon, don't hesitate to add a comment.

Release & Steam

Disabling the multiplayer feature will also help the Steam validation. Here is my schedule for this week:

• Stable build on Tuesday/Wednesday
• Steamworks Early access description update (Wednesday)
• Update on Friday everywhere: AppLab, Xbox, Itch.io and Steam
• Next week, submit the game to validation everywhere

I'll add multiplayer in an upcoming update, it's not going to take age, but I want it well integrated with both Freestyle and racing modes.

Yannick.