How can you prevent cheating in online games that use procedural generation?

1 Use server-side generation

One of the most common ways to prevent cheating in online games is to use server-side generation. This means that the game content is generated and stored on the server, not on the client. The client only receives the necessary information to render the game, and cannot access or modify the underlying data. This way, you can avoid players hacking or manipulating the game content, such as maps, items, enemies, or quests.

2 Implement encryption and authentication

Another way to prevent cheating in online games that use procedural generation is to implement encryption and authentication. Encryption is the process of transforming data into a secret code that only authorized parties can decipher. Authentication is the process of verifying the identity and authority of the parties involved in a communication. By encrypting and authenticating the data that is exchanged between the server and the client, you can prevent unauthorized access, tampering, or interception.

3 Use random seeds and hashes

A third way to prevent cheating in online games that use procedural generation is to use random seeds and hashes. A random seed is a number that is used as the input for the procedural generation algorithm. A hash is a function that converts a data into a unique and fixed-length value. By using random seeds and hashes, you can ensure that the game content is consistent and unpredictable. For example, you can generate a random seed on the server, send it to the client, and use it to generate the same content on both sides. Then, you can use a hash to verify that the content is identical and unaltered.

4 Limit client-side logic and data

A fourth way to prevent cheating in online games that use procedural generation is to limit client-side logic and data. This means that you should minimize the amount and complexity of the game logic and data that is executed or stored on the client. The more logic and data you have on the client, the more vulnerable you are to cheating. For example, you should avoid having client-side physics, collision detection, or AI. Instead, you should delegate these tasks to the server, and only send the results to the client.

5 Detect and punish cheaters

A fifth way to prevent cheating in online games that use procedural generation is to detect and punish cheaters. This means that you should monitor and analyze the behavior and performance of the players, and identify any suspicious or abnormal patterns. For example, you can use metrics such as movement speed, kill rate, accuracy, or score. If you detect any cheaters, you should apply appropriate sanctions, such as warnings, bans, or penalties.

6 Educate and reward players

A sixth way to prevent cheating in online games that use procedural generation is to educate and reward players. This means that you should inform and persuade the players about the benefits and consequences of playing fairly and honestly. For example, you can use tutorials, messages, or feedback to explain the game rules, the anti-cheat measures, and the ethical values. You can also use incentives, such as achievements, leaderboards, or rewards, to motivate and recognize the players who play legitimately and respectfully.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?