Multiplayer

Updated: 06/22/2024 by Computer Hope

Any game that allows more than one player is considered multiplayer. While multiplayer games are often played over the Internet, they could also be played over a LAN (Local Area Network) or dial-up connection. Split-screen multiplayer gaming is popular with consoles, but it usually only allows two to four players. With split-screen, each players game is shown on a side or corner of the same screen.

Most multiplayer games connect players via a multiplayer server, which lists all available online games and allows players to connect to a game or create a new one for others to join. Although the developers control the main game servers, many games allow users to create and control private servers.

Each game and its layout vary, as do the number of players who may join. Most games support between 5 and 100 players simultaneously, while MMO (Massively-Multiplayer Online) games can support several thousand.

The picture shows a multiplayer experience called a LAN party. Here, hundreds of gamers have brought their computers to a central location and connected them over a network, allowing them to compete.

Lan party

Advantages of multiplayer games

  • Playing online with people from around the world is a great experience and a way to meet new people.
  • It can be more challenging when competing against human players.
  • With live interactions and experiences with others, an online game can seem more immersive.

Disadvantages of multiplayer games

Although many enjoy multiplayer games, they still have the following disadvantages.

  • If you're interrupted, you cannot pause a multiplayer game.
  • Online games help you meet new people, but not everyone is nice online. You'll experience a lot of trolls, swearing, and toxic behavior online.
  • Because you're playing with other real people, you must also deal with their lives. For example, if someone goes AFK (Away From Keyboard) to go to the bathroom or eat, you may have to wait until they return.
  • Multiplayer games require an Internet connection, and if the game is competitive, a faster connection and lower the latency can help.
  • Some online games (e.g., live service games) require an additional monthly fee to play.
  • Older online games may not have enough players and become a dead game.

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