Minecraft server

The multiplayer Minecraft server at Inferris is a project that is currently in development, and will serve as a hotspot for gaming within the inner community.

Server Architecture and Technology

See also: Player.

Inferris employs a hybrid data management approach, using a REST API-based microservice architecture for data retrieval, updates, and management. Redis is leveraged for fast access and temporary (TTL) storage, while MySQL database serves as the primary database for long-term data storage. The servers also maintain a local cache to improve performance. Additionally, inter-server Pub/Sub mechanisms are used to enable efficient communication between instances, ensuring that backend and frontend components stay synchronized by updating local data in real-time.

Frontend

The frontend architecture runs alongside a custom-modified version of Velocity, which functions as a proxy server to direct requests to the appropriate backend servers. When a player connects to the server, the plugin interacts with the API, which queries the Redis service. If no keys are found, it defaults to retrieving data from the MySQL database. Once data is obtained from either source, the plugin generates and caches the new player data, then submits it via a POST request to the API for storage in both the database and Redis. When this happens, the backend server, such as the lobby, is already well aware of such event and has already locally cached the needed data.

Backend

The backend plugins manage the playable environments, or worlds, and operate on Paper's server software, a performant-optimized fork of Spigot. The backend, like the frontend's capabilities, is capable of updating a player's data and transmitting the update to the proxy server plugin, which it then can locally cache to stay up to date. The transmission happens when the API receives a payload within the request body, representing the request server ID, to create a line trace of where the request should head while utilizing a publish–subscribe pattern to alert other instances to grab the new batch of data.

The "Inferris" plugin is deployed across all backend servers, with its features, or modules, being dynamically enabled or disabled based on specific configurations and conditions. Primary modules include the display of player ranks and the activation of lobby mode. Additionally, each server has a unique blacklisted commands file. The plugin also supports chat logging for moderation, as well as configurable spawn settings, such as location, radius, and minimum/maximum height. It also manages API, Redis, and database connections for seamless integration.

Planned Features and Gameplay

Core game modes and mechanics

Lobby

The lobby is a standalone server that acts as a hub for players to gather before moving to other servers, and it is the primary point that the proxy sends the player to. The player's inventory contains several valuable items, including the Server Selector and Profile. The Server Selector allows players to switch between different game servers, while the Profile item provides detailed information about the player's account and statistics.

In the lobby, players can use Lumina to purchase a variety of cosmetic items, including fun gadgets and pets. Players can also perform an air boost at any time by pressing 'F' (or the key assigned to swapping items), propelling themselves forward with a trail of particles behind.

Mini-games

The mini-games server is currently in development. Inferris plans to offer a variety of mini-games, including team-based and solo PvP options. In addition to traditional PvP, we will try to offer a range of cooperative mini-games that require teamwork and strategy. Our goal is to create a unique and enjoyable experience, free from toxicity, where our community can relax and have fun together.

Survival

The survival server is in the concept phase, aiming to offer a unique experience beyond traditional vanilla gameplay. Azzy is exploring features such as player home points, public warp points, player-owned shops, and an in-game economy, all powered by custom-built plugin systems. Community feedback will play a crucial role in shaping the server's final direction, ensuring it aligns with the desires of the players.

Development

The development officially started some time in May of 2023, although its original concepts date back much earlier through different plugin iterations.