Mace Duel Mobile Brings Two-Player Arena Combat to the Browser

Mace Duel Mobile is a proposed browser-based multiplayer arena game that aims to make fast two-player combat workable on both phones and desktop computers.

The project uses TypeScript, Vite and Three.js for the browser client, alongside a Node.js, TypeScript and WebSocket server. Players can create or join private rooms, then battle through rounds using melee attacks, jump-based smash damage and wind-charge projectiles.

Server decides the match

A central design choice is server-authoritative gameplay. The client sends movement input, viewing direction and attack commands, but does not supply trusted health, damage or position data. The server simulation calculates movement, hits, projectile effects, health and the winner.

The supplied rules set the simulation at 30 ticks per second, with matches requiring three round wins. It also includes basic protections such as message validation, rate limiting, heartbeats and a small amount of lag compensation for melee attacks.

Touch controls designed for simultaneous actions

For mobile players, the control layout is built around a left-side movement stick, right-side camera look, and separate buttons for jumping, sprinting, mace attacks and wind charges. Landscape orientation is recommended, while keyboard and mouse controls remain available on desktop.

That approach fits the need for more than one active touch at a time: mobile game controls may need players to move, aim and trigger an action simultaneously, with each finger represented as a separate pointer. 1

Performance choices for browser hardware

The game concept also accounts for a wide range of mobile hardware. Three.js InstancedMesh is intended for repeated arena elements, allowing instances of the same geometry and material to be rendered efficiently. 25

Shadow effects can be adjusted or turned off through renderer settings. Three.js documents shadow maps as configurable, with shadow mapping disabled by default and optional update controls available when dynamic shadows are unnecessary. 4

Core combat loop

The combat model centers on close-range mace strikes, with extra damage available when a player lands an attack while falling. Wind charges launch a projectile that explodes near opponents, pushing them away and lifting them into the air—potentially setting up a stronger aerial strike.

The result is a compact, mobile-first duel format: private two-player rooms, short rounds, familiar touch controls and a server that retains control of the competitive rules.