The age of online multiplayer action has transformed the gaming industry forever, not least in relation to data usage. In fact, the capabilities of database management for developers and publishers have been central to the sector’s phenomenal growth, which saw its value close in on $200 billion in 2022 and LAN (local area network) parties die out in favor of sessions facilitated by stable online connections.
So, exactly how much data usage is required in modern gaming sectors? In this blog, the professionals at Progressive Data Services find out the answer to this question, and so much more. Let’s take a look.
What Does a Player’s Data Usage Look Like?
Before looking at the gaming company’s need for big data, it is important to consider the end user’s data usage and consumption. In short, the player’s gaming data usage is very modest.
The data usage figures will be influenced by a variety of factors, such as the game title and mode. However, Fortnite uses around 100MB of data per hour, while World of Warcraft is just 40MB. Even a data-heavy game like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (250MB/hr) is far less than the 3GB/hr used by streaming videos.
From a gamer’s perspective, the biggest demands on data come courtesy of downloading the game. For games with huge playable worlds, like GTA (Grand Theft Auto), it can be around 100GB. However, it is a one-time exchange.
Data Usage for Gaming Companies
Data usage is far higher for gaming companies and developers. This can be attributed to several issues, starting with the fact that companies must be able to host their games. Whether the game is available for download or is a web-based title, vast volumes of cloud-based storage are needed for the files that actively execute its running. Even greater demands are needed when play occurs over multiple operating systems.
The need for big data isn’t limited to maps and on-screen mechanics. Database management and data management can extend to using geo-locations so that players experience less latency. It can also store valuable player data that is essential to their gaming experiences. Their unique profile can include valuable data relating to their character, progress within the game, unlocked features, in-game currencies, and much more.
Likewise, online games may see different users connected to each other, meaning big data must record this while still providing the privacy that individual players demand. It does place huge demands on companies with EA, for example, hosting 2.5 billion online games per month. That is a lot of data!
Big data isn’t only used for the purpose of active gaming sessions, though. Instead, it is a valuable tool that can provide a virtual space to experiment throughout the game development process or test out different conditions. This can accelerate processes to shave years off of the journey. At all stages of research and development, programming teams will rely on vast volumes of data and analytics to ensure that every decision is made.
Big Data Demands in Gaming Are Still Growing
If the last 40+ years of gaming have taught us anything, it’s that the demand for big data is the catalyst for tech developments within the gaming landscape. From increased bandwidth to enhanced graphics, the data-heavy elements of gaming continue to expand. Thankfully, stable internet connections and cloud-based storage enable this to happen.
For developers, the value of a reliable database management and analysis setup cannot be emphasized enough. From facilitating smooth gaming with great scalability to building a stronger connection with the game’s community, the impacts are huge.
Database Management at Progressive Data Services
At Progressive Data Services, we provide a wide array of data hygiene and data management services to ensure each of our clients are running a successful analytical program year round. PDS's data management and analytical products help you achieve that goal and are fully scalable; any size organization, from local retailers to national chains, can benefit from the knowledge PDS’s data analysis provides.
To learn more about our data management and analytic services, contact the marketing experts at Progressive Data Services today!