SpacetimeDB
A relational database that doubles as an application server: you upload server logic as modules, and clients connect directly with state synced in real time.
- GitHub stars
- 25k
- Last commit
- today
- Latest release
- v2.10.2
- Self-hosted
- Yes
SpacetimeDB is a relational database that doubles as an application server. Instead of deploying a separate web or game server between clients and a database, you describe your schema and business rules in a module, upload it into the database, and let clients connect to it directly. Modules can be written in Rust, C#, TypeScript or C++.
It compiles the module, hosts it inside the database engine and pushes state changes to connected clients in real time. Permission and authorization logic live in the module just as they would in a normal server, so an entire application can be written in a single language and deployed as one binary. The project argues this removes the need for a separate web server, containers, orchestration and a caching layer. Its topics highlight game development, MMORPG servers and web development.
SpacetimeDB is written in Rust, and its license is listed as 'Other' on GitHub, so review the terms before building commercial products on it. Its creators, Clockwork Labs, offer documentation and a website at spacetimedb.com. It suits real-time apps and multiplayer games where low latency and simple architecture matter.
Key features
- Relational database that runs app logic
- Modules in Rust, C#, TypeScript or C++
- Automatic real-time state sync to clients
- Permissions defined inside modules
- Deploys as a single binary
- Direct client connections without a middle server
Pricing: Maincloud Free is $0 per month with a monthly usage credit. Pro is $25 and Team $250 per month with larger credits and pay-as-you-go beyond them; Enterprise is custom.
