Instance (computer game)
An instance is a temporary copy of a dungeon for a single group of players or a certain number of players in a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG).
On the one hand, the use of instances minimizes the amount of data that is transmitted to the individual client. Different instances of a dungeon can even be dynamically distributed to different servers. On the other hand, it ensures that enough loot is available for all players involved.
A further form of instantiation in MMORPGs are areas that can be entered by a fixed number of players. If this specified number is reached, the server opens another instance in which additional players can enter. This form of instantiation is also called a layer.
A well-known example of instances as closed areas for groups are Raid instances in World of Warcraft . An example of instanced areas that can be entered by a certain number of players are the districts of the cities in the game Guild Wars .
Instances often have so-called lockout timers. These are usually triggered when entering the instance or when defeating a boss of the instance and prevent the players involved from re-entering this zone for a certain time.
See also
Individual evidence
- ↑ Peter Winkler: Computer Lexikon 2010: The whole digital world to look up , p. 534, Verlag Markt und Technik 2009, ISBN 978-3-827-24519-9
Web links
- How the instances work in World of Warcraft on wow-europe.com.