> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://jrcooler.gitbook.io/easy-multiplayer/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://jrcooler.gitbook.io/easy-multiplayer/messenger/getting-started.md).

# Getting Started

## How does it work?

Messenger operates by leveraging Netcode for GameObjects' custom messaging feature. When a message is sent, it’s serialized into a JSON string (serialization details are explained on the [Serialization page](/easy-multiplayer/messenger/serialization.md)). The message is then routed through the Custom Messaging Manager. Once the target receives it, the message is deserialized, checks if redirection is necessary (covered further on the [Redirection page](/easy-multiplayer/messenger/redirection.md)), and, using its Message ID, locates and executes the correct method.

## How can i create my own message?

Similar to RPCs, you can create custom methods using the `[Message]` attribute on any method you choose. Each message method requires its first argument to be a `ulong` parameter, representing the sender's ID. Beyond that, you can add between 0 and 15 parameters, which should cover most use cases. If more parameters are needed, consider combining them into a single class. Here’s an example of a message method below.

### Basic Message

```csharp
[Message]
private void HelloMessage(ulong senderId)
{
    Debug.Log($"{senderId} says hello!");
}
```

### Underscore naming

If the `senderId` feels like it clutters your code, especially when it’s not needed for your message, you can use an underscore `_` to indicate that the variable is intentionally ignored. This is a good practice to keep your code clean and focused!

```csharp
[Message]
private void HelloMessage(ulong _)
{
    Debug.Log($"Someone unkown says hello!");
}
```

### Async support

Did I mention messages support async as well?

```csharp
[Message]
private async void HelloMessage(ulong _)
{
    Debug.Log("Waiting to say hello...");
    await Task.Delay(1234); // 1.234 seconds
    Debug.Log($"Someone unkown says hello!");
}
```

### Message calling in message

Or, how about sending a ‘hello’ message to our fell wo neighbour player to keep the game atmosphere warm and welcoming?

<pre class="language-csharp"><code class="lang-csharp"><strong>[Message(true)]
</strong>private async void HelloMessage(ulong _)
{
    Debug.Log("Waiting to say hello...");
    await Task.Delay(1234); // 1.234 seconds
    Debug.Log($"Someone unkown says hello!");
    
    // Sends the ‘hello’ message to the next player.
    // Yes, I know this won’t work for the last player, but this is an example.
    Messenger.To(HelloMessage, MultiplayerUtils.LocalClientId + 1);
}
</code></pre>

Notice that I included a `true` parameter in the `[Message]` attribute. This enables redirection for the message. For more details on how redirection works, check out the [Redirection page](/easy-multiplayer/messenger/redirection.md).