Resolving java.io.WriteAbortedException: A Guide to Serialization Issues in Java

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When attempting to save the high score achieved in a game, a developer encountered the following error message when running their jar file from the command line:

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This error is thrown when an object that is not serializable is included in the serialization process. In this case, the developer was using InputStream objects for font files, which are not serializable types. This issue is compounded by receiving a second error:

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This indicates that the program attempts to serialize this type of stream, which leads to failure since they lack the Serializable interface.

The Solution: Modifying the Code to Avoid Serialization Issues

The root cause of the issue is that the InputStream instances (is_game_over and is_Premier) were declared as class fields, making Java attempt to serialize them when the GamePanel object is saved. To resolve this, it is crucial to define these streams within the constructor of the GamePanel class, ensuring that they aren't serialized along with the game's state. Here’s how to adjust the code:

Step-by-Step Code Adjustment

Define InputStream Inside the Constructor:
By declaring the InputStream objects within the constructor, you prevent them from being included in the serialization process accidentally.

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Keep Other Methods As Is:
You can leave the remaining methods such as gameOver, saveGame, and rescueGame unchanged. These methods handle game logic and serialization, which should remain intact.

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Conclusion

By understanding the constraints of Java's serialization process, particularly regarding the NotSerializableException, developers can better manage their object states during serialization. In this scenario, moving the InputStream declarations inside the constructor successfully avoided the serialization issue. This small adjustment can ensure your game application runs smoothly, allowing users to save and load their high scores without encountering exceptions.

For more tips and tricks on Java programming, stay tuned for our upcoming guides!