Play Old LAN Games Online: A Guide
Reviving Classic Games on PC
Unlike gaming consoles, PCs continue to offer a pathway to enjoy older titles. This is evidenced by the ongoing availability and even renewed interest in these games.
You might discover yourself proactively purchasing these classic games, particularly when they are featured in sales on platforms like Steam and other digital distribution services.
Challenges with Online Multiplayer
A common issue with older PC games is the discontinuation of official online multiplayer support. Consequently, many rely on local area network (LAN) connectivity for multiplayer functionality.
While some older games can still be played online, establishing a connection can sometimes be complex. This often necessitates the manual configuration of port-forwarding settings.
These technical hurdles can present a barrier to entry for players seeking a seamless online experience with these retro titles.
The Benefits of Utilizing VPNs
VPNs, or virtual private networks, facilitate the creation of a secure, virtualized local network environment.
By connecting two computers through a VPN – regardless of their geographical separation – they function as if residing on a single, unified local network.
All network communication between these connected computers is then routed as though a direct connection existed between them.
A significant advantage of VPNs is their functionality even without port forwarding capabilities, a common restriction on networks like those found in universities.
Gaming Applications of VPN Technology
When multiple players connect to the same VPN, games recognize them as being on the same local area network (LAN).
This eliminates the necessity for complex router configurations, such as port forwarding, as the VPN establishes the appearance of a shared LAN connection.
Consequently, game traffic flows between players over the internet, secured and channeled through the VPN connection.
Performance Considerations
While effective, a VPN connection won't replicate the performance of a true LAN.
The inherent latency of internet transmission will always be present, impacting responsiveness compared to a direct LAN setup.
However, the added latency should ideally be comparable to playing the game directly over the internet without a VPN.
Utilizing Hamachi: A Guide to Online LAN Gaming
While numerous VPN solutions are available, even the option of establishing a personal VPN server through Windows tools exists, these alternatives often demand greater technical expertise. Setting up port forwarding and independently managing security configurations can be complex and time-consuming.
For streamlined functionality, LogMeIn's Hamachi has long been the preferred VPN tool among gamers. It provides a user-friendly experience, eliminating the need for in-depth VPN knowledge or port forwarding configuration. LogMeIn provides a commercial version of Hamachi, however, the free edition is perfectly adequate for infrequent use. Note that the free version limits network size to five participants; larger groups will require a different VPN service or a Hamachi subscription.
Begin by downloading the Hamachi software. Selecting the Unmanaged client avoids the requirement of creating a LogMeIn account.
Following installation, simply initiate the application and activate it by clicking the Power On button.
Assign a unique name to your computer; this will generate a Hamachi network address for your use.
You will then have the choice of either creating a new Hamachi network or joining an existing one.
To establish a new network, click the "Create a new network" option. A network ID and password must be defined – these credentials will be shared with those you wish to include in your gaming session.
If a network has already been created by another user, select "Join an existing network" and enter the necessary network ID and password.
The Hamachi window will display all connected users, along with their respective Hamachi IP addresses. These IP addresses may be required for direct connection within your games.
Once all participants are connected, launch your game and initiate a LAN game as if all players were on the same local network.
Other players should be able to discover the game through the game’s LAN server browser. Should the game not appear, manually input the Hamachi IP address – visible within the Hamachi window – of the game host to establish a direct connection.
Occasionally, older games may require additional configuration for optimal performance. If you encounter issues, a web search combining the game's name and "Hamachi" may yield solutions from other users who have successfully enabled multiplayer functionality.
Image Credit: Will Merydith on Flickr