Building a DOOM-like multiplayer shooter in pure SQL
SMRTR summary
A database developer has transformed an everyday SQL database into a multiplayer DOOM-style shooter, complete with raycasting, moving sprites, and player-versus-player combat.
"I got nerd-sniped by the perceived similarity of a database server to a traditional game server," explains the creator, who built the game during sleepless nights of parental leave.
Named DOOMQL, the game runs entirely on SQL queries through CedarDB, with no JavaScript rendering tricks. The architecture stores everything—maps, player positions, sprites—in database tables, while complex SQL views handle 3D rendering through raycasting.
Most surprisingly, multiplayer functionality comes nearly free. The database naturally synchronizes shared state across clients, with transaction isolation ensuring each player has a consistent view of the game world.
The game achieves 30 frames per second at 128x64 pixels—quadruple the resolution and nearly four times faster than a previous SQL-based DOOM implementation.
An unexpected "metagame" emerged where players cheat by sending raw SQL commands, highlighting both the creativity and security concerns of the approach.
SMRTR provides this summary for quick context. The original article belongs to Hacker News.
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