Abstract
The introduction of the Direct3D 12 and Vulkan graphics APIs has caused a big shift in how video games are developed. However, this shift has also brought about significant challenges, including increased complexity in graphics development and difficulty in supporting lower-end platforms like web browsers and older Android devices. As a result, many developers continue to rely on outdated APIs, despite their limitations.
To address this issue, this paper presents a novel software library that enables developers to seamlessly create applications using either a modern or a classic API style while simultaneously targeting all platforms, without additional effort. We provide a detailed analysis of the performance implications of each development strategy and effective tuning methods to optimize the library’s performance.
Our approach is particularly important for serious games, as their target audience is used to the look of modern video games but does not necessarily own modern gaming hardware. By supporting lower-end devices, our software library enables developers to create serious games that can be accessed by a wider range of users, regardless of their device’s age and processing power.
In summary, this paper offers a solution to the challenges associated with graphics development and cross-platform support, enabling developers to leverage the benefits of modern graphics APIs without sacrificing compatibility with lower-end devices.
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Acknoledgements
The investigated research of this contribution partially has been funded by strategic invest of the Serious Games group at TU Darmstadt in the context of its research activities for the creation/authoring of Serious Games.
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Konrad, R., Göbel, S. (2023). A Cross-Platform Graphics API Solution for Modern and Legacy Development Styles. In: Haahr, M., Rojas-Salazar, A., Göbel, S. (eds) Serious Games. JCSG 2023. Lecture Notes in Computer Science, vol 14309. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-44751-8_4
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