The frequency at which a game server updates its state is a fundamental aspect of online multiplayer gaming. It dictates how often the server processes information from players and sends updated game data back to them. For instance, a higher number means the server is updating more frequently, processing player actions and updating the game world more often per second.
A greater refresh rate on a server enhances the responsiveness of the online experience, reducing perceived latency and improving the synchronization of actions between players. Historically, improvements to this facet of online games have been crucial for delivering a smoother, more competitive, and ultimately more enjoyable user experience, particularly in fast-paced genres. The impact on reaction times and perceived fairness is significant.