An added 20ms is pretty noticeable in a video game. That’s more than one whole extra frame in a game running at 60 fps. Liberal use of client-side prediction means it won’t feel the same though, and instead of manifesting as delayed input response, you get more instances of being shot around corners and hits not registering.
But the bigger problem is packet loss, which leads to occasional lag spikes. Just like with frame rates, the average latency isn’t the whole story. Those 1% lows are just as important to ensuring a smooth and consistent experience.
An added 20ms is pretty noticeable in a video game. That’s more than one whole extra frame in a game running at 60 fps. Liberal use of client-side prediction means it won’t feel the same though, and instead of manifesting as delayed input response, you get more instances of being shot around corners and hits not registering.
But the bigger problem is packet loss, which leads to occasional lag spikes. Just like with frame rates, the average latency isn’t the whole story. Those 1% lows are just as important to ensuring a smooth and consistent experience.