android SQLite vs Flat Files

Question

im creating a game right now and im a bit stuck on how to implement storage of levels. i need to be able to download level files from the internet ota. im not so familiar with transferring files ota, but i have some experience with databases (mysql). what would be a better way of storing the game's level data?

What is **ota**? (Quotes: "internet **ota**" and "transferring files **ota**") — AlikElzin-kilaka, Dec 22 '11 at 22:10
Over The Air, I'm assuming. You could store the data in a remote Mysql server if it's fine that they can't play the game without connectivity. — Brandon, Jan 03 '12 at 02:07

score 3 · Accepted Answer · answered May 08 '10 at 15:26

Using sqlite will definetely decrease the time you spend coding, thus you can focus your effort in what is more important: the logic of the game. What you are going to store is simple data, then it won't worth the effort to use another method to save that info.

score 1 · Answer 2 · answered Dec 22 '11 at 22:25

There are a lot of reasons to use a DB.

If you have data that is only read from and never change (except total overwrite), please think of using flat files. A database may be an overkill in this scenario.

BTW, please consider putting the files in the external storage - it can help the user maintain low app memory - especially if the data files are big.

android SQLite vs Flat Files

2 Answers2