WebGL Game Optimization: From 30fps to 60fps

WebGL games face unique performance challenges due to browser limitations and JavaScript execution overhead. This guide covers proven techniques to achieve smooth 60fps performance.

Rendering Optimizations

Batch Draw Calls

class BatchRenderer {
    constructor(gl) {
        this.gl = gl;
        this.vertices = [];
        this.indices = [];
        this.maxBatchSize = 1000;
    }
    
    addSprite(x, y, width, height, texture) {
        if (this.vertices.length >= this.maxBatchSize * 4) {
            this.flush();
        }
        
        // Add vertex data
        this.vertices.push(x, y, 0, 0);
        this.vertices.push(x + width, y, 1, 0);
        this.vertices.push(x + width, y + height, 1, 1);
        this.vertices.push(x, y + height, 0, 1);
    }
    
    flush() {
        // Render all batched sprites in one draw call
        this.gl.drawElements(this.gl.TRIANGLES, this.indices.length, this.gl.UNSIGNED_SHORT, 0);
        this.vertices = [];
        this.indices = [];
    }
}

Memory Management

• ▸Use object pooling for frequently created/destroyed objects
• ▸Minimize garbage collection by reusing arrays
• ▸Use typed arrays for better performance

Browser-Specific Optimizations

1. ▸Chrome: Enable hardware acceleration
2. ▸Firefox: Use WebGL2 when available
3. ▸Safari: Optimize for mobile performance

Conclusion

With proper optimization techniques, WebGL games can achieve native-like performance across all modern browsers.