Question 1

What’s the difference between Game Backend Services and a general backend (REST APIs + database)?

Accepted Answer

A general backend focuses on business logic and data (accounts, inventory, purchases). Game Backend Services add multiplayer-specific capabilities like dedicated server hosting, matchmaking, session placement, tick-rate performance considerations, DDoS-aware networking patterns, and rapid autoscaling for unpredictable player spikes.

Question 2

When should I use Game Backend Services instead of hosting my own servers on VMs or Kubernetes?

Accepted Answer

Use them when you need fast time-to-market for multiplayer hosting, built-in matchmaking/session management, and automated scaling across regions. They’re especially helpful for games with spiky traffic (launch days, events) or when you want to reduce operational overhead. Self-hosting can make sense if you need highly custom networking, already have strong SRE/platform skills, or want maximum control over the stack.

Question 3

How much do Game Backend Services cost?

Accepted Answer

Costs typically depend on (1) compute hours for game server instances/containers, (2) number of concurrent servers and autoscaling behavior, (3) data transfer/egress and bandwidth, (4) regions used (more regions usually costs more), and (5) any add-ons like matchmaking requests, player data storage, logs/metrics, and DDoS protection. The biggest drivers are usually server compute time and outbound bandwidth during peak concurrency.

Game Backend Services

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