More Server Tricks

We're out of time for this subject, so I can't show you any more server-side scripts, but I do want to mention a few things that you can do if you have the will to do them.

You can use CGI scripts to develop a simple chat room that players can use to find matches for multiplayer games . From there, you can use more CGI scripts to implement the multiplayer game.

Another powerful use of server-side scripts is to track usage of your games and Web sites. Unknown to your user , he could be sending you data about what parts of your site or game he's using. This can go so far as to help you find and track bugs in your games. You can easily build a huge database of information about the users of your game and site. Imagine learning the playing habits of your players by recording this data for later analysis. Data like that can be used to improve your interfaces, instructions, and overall game quality. You can essentially watch every move your players make without them knowing it!