Think of performance as the backbone of fun. Optimize networking early—reduce latency, sync players seamlessly, and minimize data load. Prioritize features that directly enhance gameplay, trimming non-essentials. Use scalable architecture to handle peak loads without compromising quality. In multiplayer, smooth performance is the quality players remember.

- Tools, tools, tools - you need tools to create content, update builds and test loads. Iteration is paramount and the speed with which you can iterate will determine your success - Scope. What is the focus of your game? Keep your initial scope tightly in check. Remember, you can patch, you can add content, you can add features later. - Cultivate an external test team that can help you guide your decisions with data

Invest development time in test harnesses early that can simulate online multiplayer loads as often it's difficult to predict how new features will affect performance and make sure your test plans include load testing so you can send resources hungry elements back to the dev team (and sometimes the game designer). Also include cloud resource expenses in the dev teams KPI's so they have insights on $$

To optimize performance in a multiplayer game, it’s important to minimize data transfer by using compression, delta updates, and separating messages into reliable and unreliable types. Efficient game logic is achieved through server-side processing and resource optimization (LOD, texture streaming, object pooling). Stress testing, profiling, and multithreading are essential for handling the load. Scalable infrastructure and dynamic resolution help balance quality and performance, while regular updates incorporate player feedback.