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Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to TGS Tech, where innovation meets excellence. Explore our growing FAQ page to discover insights and answers regarding our groundbreaking technology, designed to revolutionize the industry.


About TGS Tech

Why did we start TGS Tech?

TGS Tech was founded with a vision to create a superior development ecosystem, prioritizing cutting-edge technology and comprehensive support outside the constraints of large corporations. Our mission emphasizes creativity and quality over mass production, striving for long-term goals and ROI rather than short-term gains.

How long has TGS Tech been operating?

Our inaugural venture as a development company began in 2007, culminating in the establishment of our Michigan-based entity in 2009. By 2015, operations transitioned to Maryland, where we officially registered as a Maryland-based company in 2019, absorbing our previous entity into the new business framework.

What keeps us motivated at TGS Tech?

At TGS Tech, our motivation stems from our collective experiences as developers, engineers, and gamers. Recognizing the challenges in developing applications, from games to interactive 3D applications, we understand the impact of delays and costly integrations on the development process and market release. With two decades of experience, our core engineering team is dedicated to solving these problems. Seeing the demand in the market and the success of our competitors, we believe our "Secret Sauce" will benefit developers, companies, and provide a rewarding ROI for our stakeholders.

What does TGS Tech specialize in?

Our company specializes in providing comprehensive solutions for software development, from design to release. With services ranging from game development to architectural virtualization, we offer expertise in application structuring, server setup, engine development, and secure data hardening. Our focus is on developing our new platform, Apex Engine.

What is TGS Tech's mission or core values?

Embedded within our operations are fundamental values of inclusiveness, cooperation, innovation, and accountability. As a team of seasoned industry veterans, TGS Tech is dedicated to fostering an environment of inclusivity and collaboration in interactive application development. Through innovation, we leverage our extensive software industry experience to address industry challenges with pioneering solutions.

What are TGS Tech's future goals?

TGS Tech's future goals include advancing cutting-edge software tailored to industry needs and addressing common challenges. We are committed to launching Apex Engine, expanding our client base, and delivering regular updates to ensure our platform remains forward-looking. Our priority is to offer dedicated support, fostering a positive experience for clients as they realize their creative visions.

What sets TGS Tech apart from competitors?

TGS Tech is a leader in collaborative development, leveraging innovation, industry experience, and a customer-centric approach. With a focus on quality and inclusivity, we tailor solutions to diverse industry needs, ensuring exceptional results. Our commitment to collaboration and customer satisfaction distinguishes us as trusted leaders in the field, exceeding expectations and delivering top-notch solutions.

What are the principal engineers' prior professional experience?

Our founding team, comprised of industry veterans with decades of experience in computing, fosters innovation through extensive management and development expertise. With over 25 years of collective company experience, our team members have worked at renowned organizations such as Microsoft, Simutronics, AMD, Duke Energy, Mythic, ZeniMax, and SOE. They have contributed to projects including DirectX, HeroEngine, Visual Studios, Duke Energy: SEEM, and more, demonstrating their diverse skills and contributions to the technology landscape.

What are the core team member's top 4 major achievements?

The team takes pride in their top four accomplishments and valuable learning experiences: The Relics/Dark Relic, DirectX, HeroEngine, and Duke Energy: SEEM. In 1989, Ms. Miller and Mr. Gideon published an AD&D campaign. Their first PC game, "Dark Relic," debuted on disk in 1995. In 2004, Mr. Larsen and his team developed HeroEngine. Mr. Marsalas, a core engineer for DirectX, continues to apply his expertise across the industry. Mr. Farrell, with over 30 years at Duke Energy, leads application development efforts.

What are the 4 key lessons we've learned in our industry?

Over our years in software development, we've learned crucial lessons. Effective communication ensures team alignment. Detailed planning and documentation streamline workflows. Experience teaches us to refine strategies continually. Adaptation is essential for navigating tech advancements and market changes. These lessons define our expertise and drive us towards sustained success in the dynamic realm of software development. “Improvise, adapt, and overcome” also applies to business and development.

Development Experience

What is TGS Tech's experience in rendering development?

Since the mid to late '90s, Mr. Marsalas specialized in render engineering, encompassing DirectX, D3D, HLSL, and OpenGL for Microsoft. Meanwhile, Ms. Miller began developing shaders and rendering effects in 2000, using C++ and HLSL across diverse games and applications. Mr. Boyrazian contributed to an in-house engine incorporating OpenGL. Currently, the team is integrating AI and generative rendering methods into select projects. As a registered nVidia developer, TGS Tech is also incorporating Vulkan rendering into ongoing projects.

What is TGS Tech's experience in network and security?

TGS Tech engineers have extensive experience in server and network security across various sectors, including private and government entities, commerce, and organizational websites. Our team has implemented robust security measures to protect servers and networks from cyber threats, ensuring data confidentiality, integrity, and availability. We have experience securing government networks, e-commerce platforms, and organizational websites. Utilizing advanced technologies and best practices, we focus on proactive threat detection, stringent access controls, and continuous monitoring to enhance our clients' digital infrastructure security against evolving cyber risks.

What is TGS Tech's experience in Paas/SaaS development?

TGS Tech brings extensive experience in both PaaS and SaaS development, spanning various sectors and applications. Our portfolio includes Project Management Service (PMS) web application software, web-based Account Management System (AMS) software, and content management Software (CMS). We have also contributed to government sector application development, ensuring robust solutions tailored to specific needs. Additionally, our expertise extends to game and render engines, including in-house game engines, Gambryo, P3D, Essenthel engines, HeroEngine, and now the Apex Engine platform

What is TGS Tech's experience in database development?

TGS Tech possesses extensive expertise in database development, catering to both private and government sectors. Our proficiency spans various database management systems, including Oracle, MySQL, and PostgreSQL. We have successfully implemented database solutions for SaaS applications such as ProjectFork, Joomla, P3D, and HeroEngine, ensuring efficient data management and scalability. Additionally, our Databse experience extends to developing websites, web applications, and other projects, including MMOs like Dark Age of Camelot, and Hero's Journey. With a focus on reliability and performance, we deliver tailored database solutions to meet the diverse needs of our clients across different industries and applications.

How does TGS Tech utilize its development expertise?

TGS Tech draws upon more than 25 years of cumulative experience in crafting game engines and platforms, acquired from engagements in both private and government sectors. With deep insights gained from various roles as clients, developers, and engineers, along with valuable feedback from our clientele, we harness this extensive expertise to drive innovation and deliver tailored solutions that effectively address our clients' diverse needs.

What games have TGS Tech staff worked on over the years?

Our team has contributed to various titles, including Dark Relic, Gemstone, Diablo, Dragon Realms, Diablo II, Morrowind, Dark Age of Camelot, Vanguard: Saga of Heroes, Hero's Journey, Stargate Worlds, Dark Relic: Prelude, and more. TGS Tech has been contracted for several games, some under NDA. Public projects include Pumpkin Online, Exile, and The Repopulation. TGS Tech owns the IP for the Dark Relic series, comprising Dark Relic (single player), Relic Defence (single player), Dark Relic: Prelude (MMO, development paused), and Dark Relic: Requiem (MMO, development paused).

What game engine development does TGS Tech and staff have?

This journey has equipped us with extensive expertise in both developing and utilizing various game engines over the years. We have amassed diverse experience with game engines, from our early in-house developments to collaborations with Gamebryo, Unreal Engine 2, and 2.5.

Our principal engineers were involved in creating HeroEngine, leading its development from 2004 to 2022, with significant company involvement from 2009 to 2022. We also utilized Unreal Engine 3 from 2004 to 2007, Esenthel Engine from 2012 to 2015, our internal P3D Engine from 2008 to 2016, with current emphasis on the Apex Engine.

What is HeroEngine and what happened to it?

HeroEngine, created by Christopher Larsen, Andy Finkenstadt, and their team in 2004, offered a unique real-time collaboration development environment. The IP was acquired by Idea Fabrik in 2010. Following IF Studios' bankruptcy in 2019, TGS Tech and Idea Fabrik collaborated to merge technologies into an updated platform. However, Idea Fabrik shifted focus to their metaEngine in 2021/2022, leading to the companies parting ways on game engine development. TGS Tech then refocused on their redesigned in-house engine.

What is P3D Engine and what happened to it?

Initially the working title was named the Platform 3D Engine (P3D) in 2008, our in-house engine aimed to meet various industry software needs over the years, acknowledging common requirements for 3D game engines. In 2016, we took over HeroEngine's development. In 2019, we partnered with Idea Fabrik to merge our technologies into a shared HeroEngine IP. However, by 2022, diverging business goals prompted us to refocus on our redesigned P3D, leading to exclusive development of the Apex Engine.

Do we have any side projects or working on other stuff for Apex Engine?

We're actively engaged in a few projects that are either directly or indirectly related to the Apex Engine developent. Apex 3D, our model and conversion tool, is being developed for compatibility with common 3D formats like FBX. Additionally, we're creating an AI Code Assist application for Apex Engine. While we can't disclose all details due to the ongoing development of the Apex Prototype, we're exploring side projects that complement or extend Apex Engine's capabilities, including AI generative rendering and artwork.

General Terminology

What is PaaS and SaaS?

Platform as a Service (PaaS) simplifies application development by providing developers with tools and infrastructure while managing underlying complexities like servers and databases. This allows developers to focus on coding and deployment, while the provider handles infrastructure management. Software as a Service (SaaS) delivers hosted applications, freeing users from infrastructure management for convenience and cost-effectiveness.

What is Infrastructure as a Service?

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) is a cloud computing model that provides virtualized computing resources over the internet. In an IaaS model, users can rent or license virtualized infrastructure computing resources. With IaaS, users have control over development and content that run on the infrastructure, while the cloud provider is responsible for managing the physical hardware, virtualization, and networking infrastructure.

What is the difference between a render engine and a game engine?

Render engines specialize in rendering 3D scenes to produce 2D images or animations, emphasizing lighting, textures, and visual effects for applications like movies and graphic design.

In contrast, game engines are comprehensive frameworks which include full programming and development toolsets, tailored for interactive application development, encompassing rendering alongside game/code logic, physics, audio, scripting, and networking, enabling creation and deployment across platforms.

What programming languages are commonly used?

When constructing a Platform as a Service (PaaS) platform, language selection hinges on factors like performance, scalability, and developer preferences. In constructing a Platform as a Service (PaaS) platform, language selection balances factors like performance, scalability, and developer preferences. Common choices include C++ for high-performance tasks, C# for Microsoft .NET web applications, Python for its versatility in building web apps and automation scripts, Java for its platform independence, Node.js for scalable server-side applications, Go for microservices and cloud-native setups, and Ruby for its productivity, especially with Ruby on Rails. Each language serves different needs, supporting diverse capabilities tailored to the specific requirements and technical considerations of the PaaS platform under development.

What is version control and why it is important?

Version control, also known as source control or revision control, is a system that records changes to files over time. It allows users to track modifications made to files, revert to previous versions, and collaborate with others on projects efficiently. Version control systems maintain a history of changes, enabling developers to understand how a codebase has evolved, identify when and by whom specific changes were made, and resolve conflicts in collaborative environments. It ensures consistency, reliability, and traceability of code, facilitating better project management, collaboration, and software development practices. Overall, version control is crucial for maintaining the integrity and quality of codebases in both individual and team settings.

Why is server and network security important?

Server and network security play a pivotal role in protecting digital assets and accounts, ensuring integrity, availability, and confidentiality of information. They guard against cyber threats such as malware and unauthorized access, preventing data breaches and reputational damage. Security measures like encryption safeguard sensitive data, while compliance adherence mitigates legal risks. Robust security protocols prevent downtime and include backup solutions for data loss prevention. By upholding strong security standards, organizations demonstrate commitment to customer trust and maintain credibility in an interconnected world, reinforcing the importance of server and network security in safeguarding against diverse cyber risks and ensuring operational resilience.

What are security groups and why are they important?

Server, network, and database security groups comprise policies and configurations aimed at safeguarding specific components of an organization's IT infrastructure. Server security involves measures like firewalls and access controls to protect against unauthorized access and malware. Network security controls traffic flow and prevents unauthorized access through methods like firewall rules and encryption. Database security safeguards data integrity and confidentiality through encryption, access controls, and auditing. These groups are vital for mitigating security risks, complying with regulations, and protecting sensitive data from cyber threats, ensuring the overall security of an organization's IT environment.

What is an account management system (AMS)?

An Account Management System (AMS) is a software tool or platform designed to facilitate the management of user accounts, access and permissions, rights within an organization's network or system. It typically includes features for user authentication, user provisioning and deprovisioning, password management, role-based access control (RBAC), and auditing/logging functionalities. The AMS centralizes the management of user accounts relating to , streamlining processes for administrators to create, modify, and revoke user access privileges across various applications and systems. This helps ensure security, compliance, and efficient administration of user accounts within an organization.

What is visual scripting?

Visual scripting is a method of programming that allows users to create scripts or automate tasks using a visual interface rather than traditional text-based coding. In visual scripting, users typically work with graphical elements such as nodes, blocks, or diagrams to represent logic and flow, connecting them together to define the behavior of a system or application. This approach is often used in game development, interactive media, and software applications where a more intuitive and accessible programming interface is desired, enabling non-programmers to create complex functionalities without writing code.

Apex Engine

What is Apex Engine?

The Apex Engine, currenly in development, is a cutting-edge game development platform developed by TGS Tech. It boasts advanced features and tools tailored for creating immersive and interactive gaming experiences. Designed with flexibility and scalability in mind, the Apex Engine empowers developers to craft high-quality games across various genres and platforms. With its robust architecture and intuitive interface, the Apex Engine enables efficient workflow and seamless collaboration, driving innovation and creativity in game development.

When did development begin on Apex Engine?

The Apex Engine design development began in December 2022, with prototypes initiated in July 2023. We've covered all aspects, from partnerships to funding, R&D on emerging tech, and platform creation—encompassing servers, networking, coding, rendering, and AI. This holistic approach ensures thorough development.

What is the current size of Apex Engine's development team?

Currently, our team comprises four highly dedicated engineers, supported by management, HR, research, and marketing personnel. Looking ahead, we plan to enhance our capabilities by recruiting more experienced engineers and developers within the next 6-12 months. Additionally, we aim to rehire three HeroEngine developers from the former Simutronics team to further strengthen our team and expertise.

What is "live real-time collaboration"?

Live Real-Time collaboration enables seamless access for developers worldwide to log into the same development environment, work, and instantly view all changes. We've gamifyed 3D interactive development, akin to using Google Docs or playing a multiplayer game akin to Minecraft. This approach accelerates development, bypassing the downtime associated with frequent version updates like nightly or daily builds, thereby saving time and costs for developers and companies.

What progamming language is Apex Engine programmed in?

The Apex Engine is predominantly coded in C++, supplemented by secondary languages such as C#, Python, XML, LUA, and internal custom scripts tailored to support diverse functionalities within the engine.

What scripting language do I need to learn to use Apex Engine?

TGS Tech advocates for a standardized development process to facilitate a smoother learning curve. Apex Engine will integrate Python as the primary scripting language for client-side operations. Developers can utilize the Apex Python Editor and AI Assist tools within most editors. XML and QML, with Python support, will be employed for GUI editing, while Python and C++, with JSON support, will drive the Apex Plugin system. This approach ensures versatility and ease of use across various aspects of product development.

Can you create and/or integrate third-party APIs with Apex Engine?

Yes, Apex Engine wil feature the Apex Plugin System, enabling users to develop their own API DLLs or seamlessly integrate third-party APIs into their projects. Additionally, external APIs can be employed to connect with external applications or web services, providing flexibility and customization options to meet diverse project requirements.

Is there an Account or User Management system in Apex Engine?

Yes, Apex Engine will feature our Account Management System (AMS) for managing developers, users, groups, and permissions. It will offer five primary top-level groups with customizable default permissions, along with the ability to create additional groups and subgroups as required for your project.

Will Apex Engine support data privacy and GDPR compliance?

Yes, Apex Engine is designed to support data privacy and GDPR compliance. It incorporates features and practices to ensure that data handling aligns with GDPR regulations, including encryption, access controls, data anonymization, and user consent management. Additionally, it provides tools for users to manage their data privacy preferences and rights in accordance with GDPR requirements.

Will Apex Engine support AI programming or coding?

Apex Engine's AI Code Assist for Python is a feature designed to enhance the development process by providing intelligent code suggestions, auto-completion, and error detection for Python scripts within the engine's environment. This tool aims to streamline coding tasks, improve efficiency, and assist developers in writing high-quality Python code for their projects within the Apex Engine ecosystem.