Selecting C# Profiling tools

Abstract

The usage of profiling tools could certainly be beneficial for game development since it helps to identify performance bottlenecks. However, the number of available profilers is high and can cause frustration among developers. The objective of this thesis is to research the most recommended profilers and determine the best one based on following criteria: affordability, learnability, intuitive UI, optimized performance, deep analysis, and customizability. The investigation was carried out on Redgate ANTS memory and performance profilers, namely, the CodeTrack, JetBrains dotMemory and dotTrace profilers and the built-in Visual Studio profilers. As a target for testing, the game Barotrauma was used, which was developed in cooperation with FakeFish ltd and Undertow Games. In order to ensure that all profilers have similar conditions, the requirements were to play the game in single player for 10 to 30 minutes, encounter at least one monster attack and experience one breach of the submarine. This thesis investigates all profiler findings and assesses them according to the six aforementioned criteria, based on the author’s own user experience. The results show that built-in Visual Studio profilers have the highest grades. JetBrains and CodeTrack are tied for second place, considering JetBrains is more user-friendly and performant, while CodeTrack is a fully free software. ANTS profilers take the last place; nevertheless, they are helpful in optimization matters. This thesis offers advice on selecting the right profiling tool for game development companies and makes a small practical contribution on optimization of future games.