Partly Shared Instance Data: Enhanced Multi-Instance Support

by SLV Team 61 views
Partly Shared Instance Data: Enhanced Multi-Instance Support

Hey guys! Let's dive into an exciting idea that could seriously level up the NoRiskClient (NRC) launcher: partly shared instance data. This feature aims to make running multiple instances from the same group with shared folders smoother and more efficient. If you're like me and love tweaking your Minecraft setup, this is something you'll definitely want to hear about. This suggestion addresses a specific pain point experienced when using shared folders across multiple instances, where not all mods load correctly. The core idea revolves around optimizing the shared folder feature, which many users consider a primary reason to switch to NRC. The current implementation, while functional, exhibits limitations when running multiple instances concurrently, leading to inconsistencies in mod loading. This proposal aims to refine the shared folder functionality by introducing a 'partly shared' system, which segregates specific data types between shared and instance-specific storage.

The Current Challenge with Shared Folders

Currently, the shared folder feature in NRC is a game-changer, but it's not quite perfect. When you enable shared folders and try to run multiple instances from the same group, you might notice that not all mods load correctly.

For example, imagine you have a modpack with 174 mods. When you start one instance, all 174 mods load perfectly. But if you start a second instance from the same group, it might only load 171 mods. This inconsistency can be a real headache, especially if you're trying to test different configurations or play with friends.

This issue arises because the current shared folder system doesn't differentiate between data that benefits from being shared and data that needs to be unique to each instance. This is where the idea of a 'partly shared' system comes into play.

The Partly Shared Instance Data Solution

So, what's the solution? The idea is to implement a partly shared system. Think of it as a way to intelligently divide data storage: some data is shared across all instances in a group, while other data remains unique to each instance. This approach aims to optimize resource utilization and enhance the stability and consistency of running multiple instances.

Core Concept: Differentiating Shared and Instance-Specific Data

The key to the partly shared system is distinguishing between data that should be shared across instances and data that should remain unique to each instance. This involves categorizing different types of files and directories and determining the most appropriate storage strategy for each. By intelligently managing shared and instance-specific data, the system aims to improve performance, reduce redundancy, and enhance the overall user experience.

Key Data Categories

To implement the partly shared system effectively, we need to consider different categories of data and their suitability for sharing:

  • Worlds: These are typically instance-specific, as players often want to maintain separate game progress and environments. Sharing worlds could lead to conflicts and unintended alterations.
  • Server List: This can be shared across instances, as players may want to access the same servers from different instances. Sharing the server list simplifies server management and ensures consistency.
  • Options: User preferences and settings can be shared or kept separate depending on the user's needs. Sharing options ensures a consistent experience across instances, while separate options allow for customized settings for each instance.
  • Resource Packs: These can be shared to save disk space and ensure consistency in visual assets across instances. Sharing resource packs reduces redundancy and simplifies resource management.
  • Screenshots: These are generally instance-specific, as players typically want to keep screenshots organized by instance. Separate screenshot folders prevent clutter and ensure easy retrieval of specific screenshots.
  • Keybinds: Similar to options, keybinds can be shared or kept separate based on user preference. Shared keybinds ensure consistent controls across instances, while separate keybinds allow for customized control schemes.
  • Shaders: Like resource packs, shaders can be shared to save disk space and maintain visual consistency. Sharing shaders reduces redundancy and simplifies shader management.
  • Mods: These are typically instance-specific, as different instances may require different mod configurations. Keeping mods separate ensures compatibility and prevents conflicts between instances.
  • Logs: These should be instance-specific for debugging purposes. Separate log files allow for easy identification and resolution of issues specific to each instance.
  • Mod Data: This data is often specific to each instance, as mods may store configuration or save data specific to a particular instance. Keeping mod data separate prevents conflicts and ensures data integrity.

Implementation Details

Implementing the partly shared system involves modifying the launcher's data management mechanisms to handle shared and instance-specific data appropriately. This may include:

  • Directory Structure: Organizing data into shared and instance-specific directories. Shared data would reside in a common directory accessible to all instances, while instance-specific data would reside in separate directories for each instance.
  • Data Synchronization: Implementing mechanisms to synchronize shared data across instances while ensuring that instance-specific data remains isolated.
  • Configuration Options: Providing users with configuration options to customize which data is shared and which is kept separate.

How It Works: A Deep Dive

The basic idea is to store certain data at the group level (shared across all instances) and other data separately for each instance. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Shared at Group Level: Worlds, server lists, options, resource packs, screenshots, keybinds, and shaders.
  • Separate for Each Instance: Mods, logs, and mod data.

But why this division? Let's break it down:

  • Worlds: Sharing worlds might sound cool, but imagine the chaos if two instances tried to modify the same world simultaneously! Keeping them separate avoids conflicts.
  • Server List: This is perfect for sharing. Why re-add your favorite servers on every instance?
  • Options: Think of your settings – video, audio, controls. Sharing these ensures a consistent experience across instances.
  • Resource Packs: Another great candidate for sharing. Save disk space and keep your visuals consistent.
  • Screenshots: These are personal and instance-specific. Keep them separate to avoid confusion.
  • Keybinds: Like options, consistent keybinds across instances can be a real time-saver.
  • Shaders: Similar to resource packs, share these to save space and maintain a consistent look.
  • Mods: This is crucial. Different instances often need different mod configurations. Keeping mods separate prevents conflicts.
  • Logs: Essential for debugging. Separate logs make it easy to identify issues in specific instances.
  • Mod Data: Just like mods, this data should be separate to avoid conflicts and corruption.

Customization is Key

To take this even further, imagine if you could customize what’s shared! Brentspine suggests allowing users to decide if NRC should use a shared options.txt file or if each instance should have its own. This level of control could extend to each category of file – mods, worlds, you name it. This would provide users with the flexibility to tailor the system to their specific needs and preferences.

Going the Extra Mile: Localhost for Multi-Instance Worlds

Here’s a neat idea: what if you try to join the same world from two instances? NRC could automatically start a localhost server! This would allow seamless interaction between instances without the need for manual server setup. It's a clever solution that enhances the user experience and promotes multi-instance gameplay.

Benefits of Partly Shared Instance Data

So, why is this partly shared system such a big deal? Here’s a rundown of the benefits:

  • Improved Mod Loading: By keeping mods separate, you avoid conflicts and ensure that all mods load correctly in each instance.
  • Resource Efficiency: Sharing resource packs and shaders saves disk space and reduces redundancy.
  • Consistent Experience: Shared options and keybinds ensure a uniform experience across instances.
  • Flexibility: Customization options allow users to tailor the system to their needs.
  • Enhanced Multi-Instance Gameplay: Automatic localhost setup makes it easier to play in the same world across multiple instances.

By implementing a partly shared system, NRC can address the limitations of the current shared folder feature and provide a more robust and user-friendly multi-instance experience. This enhancement would not only improve mod loading consistency but also optimize resource usage and provide users with greater flexibility and control over their instances.

KĂĽsse Euer Herz (Checkt man die Idee?)

Brentspine ends their suggestion with a playful “Küsse Euer Herz (Checkt man die Idee?)” which translates to “Kisses your heart (Do you get the idea?).” It’s a fun way to ask if the concept resonates with others.

Platforms Affected

This feature would benefit users on MacOS, Linux, and Windows, making it a universally valuable addition to NRC.

In Conclusion

The idea of partly shared instance data is a brilliant way to enhance the multi-instance capabilities of NRC. By intelligently managing shared and instance-specific data, NRC can provide a smoother, more efficient, and more customizable experience for its users. Whether you're a mod developer, a content creator, or just someone who loves tinkering with Minecraft, this feature has something to offer. Let's hope the NRC team considers this awesome suggestion! What do you guys think about this suggestion? Let us know in the comments below!