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SDK v0.0.1 Released

· 3 min read
Ben Allfree
Ben Allfree
Dank meme hunter

We're thrilled to announce the first release of the js13k SDK - a complete multiplayer infrastructure designed specifically for the JS13K game jam! This release brings everything you need to build tiny multiplayer games that fit within the 13KB limit.

What is js13k?​

js13k is a multiplayer infrastructure that lets you focus on what matters most: your game. No server code, no deployment headaches, no infrastructure complexity. Just pure game development with real-time multiplayer capabilities.

What's New in v0.0.1​

🎮 Complete Multiplayer Infrastructure​

  • State Relay Server: Hosted at online.js13kgames.com - handles all WebSocket complexity
  • Client SDK: Simple JavaScript library that abstracts away connection management
  • Zero Server Logic: Your game runs entirely on the client - the server just forwards state changes
  • Free Hosting: The entire infrastructure is provided free for JS13K participants

📦 Client SDK Features​

  • Automatic State Management: Built-in state merging and synchronization
  • Player Lifecycle Handling: Automatic connect/disconnect management
  • TypeScript Support: Full type definitions included
  • Tiny Footprint: The SDK doesn't count against your 13KB limit!
  • Simple API: Just a few lines of code to get multiplayer working

🎯 Key Benefits for JS13K​

  • No Server Code: Focus on your game, not infrastructure
  • Real-time Multiplayer: Instant state synchronization between players
  • 13KB Compliant: Everything fits within the game jam limits
  • Zero Configuration: Works out of the box with no setup required

Quick Start​

Getting started with js13k is incredibly simple:

import Js13kClient from 'https://esm.sh/js13k'

const client = new Js13kClient('my-awesome-game')

client.on('state', (state) => {
  // Update your game with new state
  renderGame(state)
})

client.updateMyState({ x: 100, y: 200 })

That's it! Your game now has real-time multiplayer capabilities.

Live Demos​

See js13k in action with these working examples:

Each demo showcases different multiplayer patterns and demonstrates how easy it is to build engaging multiplayer experiences.

Community & Support​

Join the growing js13k community:

  • Game Lobby: Browse and play games built with js13k
  • Documentation: Comprehensive guides and tutorials
  • Examples: Working demos to learn from
  • Free Infrastructure: No cost, no limits

What's Next​

This is just the beginning! Future releases will include:

  • Enhanced error handling and reconnection
  • Performance optimizations and monitoring
  • Additional game templates and examples
  • Community showcase and game submissions
  • Advanced multiplayer patterns and tutorials

Get Building!​

Ready to create your first JS13K multiplayer game? The infrastructure is ready - now it's your turn to make something amazing!

The JS13K game jam just got a whole lot more exciting with real-time multiplayer capabilities. Happy coding! 🎮

js13k is built on partyserver and designed specifically for the JS13K game jam. Build tiny games, make big connections!