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Ocean View Games
Ocean View
Games
FishNet Multiplayer Development

FishNet Multiplayer Development

Server-authoritative Unity networking for MMOs and competitive games

Why We Chose FishNet

When we started building Domi Online, we evaluated every major Unity networking solution: Mirror, Photon, Netcode for GameObjects, and FishNet. For a server-authoritative MMORPG with real economic stakes, FishNet was the clear winner.

FishNet gave us the bandwidth efficiency and server authority needed to support 1,000+ concurrent players on cost-optimised AWS infrastructure - keeping monthly OpEx low enough to spend the budget on content instead of server rental.

FishNet’s Technical Strengths

Server-Authoritative by Default

FishNet enforces server authority out of the box, preventing the client-side cheating that plagues peer-to-peer solutions. Critical for games with real economies or competitive ranking.

Bandwidth Efficiency

Delta compression, SyncVar optimisation, and configurable tick rates let you support more concurrent players without scaling server costs linearly.

Prediction & Reconciliation

Built-in client-side prediction and server reconciliation for responsive gameplay even at 100ms+ latency. Players feel instant feedback while the server stays authoritative.

Object Pooling & Spawning

Networked object pooling eliminates GC spikes from constant spawn/despawn cycles. Essential for MMOs with hundreds of entities in view.

Scene Stacking

Load multiple additive scenes with independent network state. Enables seamless zone transitions without loading screens or player disconnections.

Active Development & Support

FishNet is actively maintained with regular updates, a responsive Discord community, and commercial support options. No abandoned-framework risk.

FishNet vs Mirror vs Photon

A simplified comparison for the most common Unity networking decision. The right choice depends on your game’s architecture and scale requirements.

FishNet vs Mirror vs Photon feature comparison
FeatureFishNetMirrorPhoton
Server AuthorityBuilt-in, enforcedOptional, manualCloud-dependent
Bandwidth ControlGranular delta syncBasic SyncVarsPhoton-managed
Dedicated ServerNative supportNative supportPhoton Cloud only
Cost ModelFree / open-sourceFree / open-sourcePer-CCU pricing
MMO ScaleProven at 1000+ CCUPossible with workEnterprise tier required

FishNet in Production

Domi Online MMORPG case study

Architecting a Scalable, “Cap-Less” MMORPG on a Lean Infrastructure

How we engineered 64-bit infinite progression, cost-optimised AWS infrastructure, and GPU-instanced environments for a cap-less MMORPG - securing $3M in seed funding.

Read Case Study →

Related Services

Multiplayer & Networking

Full netcode implementation, backend infrastructure, and matchmaking systems.

Learn More →

Co-Development

Senior Unity engineers embedded directly in your team for networking sprints.

Learn More →

Performance Optimisation

Network profiling, bandwidth reduction, and server-side performance tuning.

Learn More →

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. FishNet is free and open-source under the MIT licence. There are no per-CCU fees or revenue share requirements, which makes it particularly attractive for indie studios and startups managing tight budgets. Optional commercial support packages are available from the FishNet developer for teams that need direct assistance.
FishNet is the strongest choice when you need server-authoritative architecture with dedicated servers you control. It excels in games where anti-cheat, bandwidth efficiency, and server-side validation are critical, such as MMORPGs, competitive PvP titles, and games with real economies. Photon is better suited to quick prototyping with managed cloud infrastructure and simpler session-based multiplayer. Mirror works well for smaller-scale projects that need a straightforward, community-supported solution.
Yes. We have used FishNet in production on Domi Online, supporting 1,000+ concurrent players with server-authoritative networking on AWS infrastructure. FishNet’s delta compression, configurable tick rates, and networked object pooling keep bandwidth and CPU costs manageable at scale. The key to MMO-scale performance is pairing FishNet with well-architected server infrastructure and disciplined network profiling.
Yes. FishNet includes built-in client-side prediction and server reconciliation, which means players experience responsive controls even at 100ms+ latency while the server retains full authority over game state. This is essential for any real-time multiplayer game where input responsiveness directly affects player experience.

Have more questions about multiplayer development?

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