ageLANServer allows you to play Age of Empires I, II, and III Definitive Editions multiplayer over a local area network (LAN) without an internet connection. It acts as a local server, replacing the need for the official online servers, enabling fully offline LAN play. This open-source project supports various features like lobbies, chat, and game setup, mimicking the functionality of the official online service but entirely localized.
This GitHub repository, titled "ageLANServer," introduces a locally hosted web server application designed to facilitate offline LAN multiplayer functionality for the Definitive Editions of Age of Empires I, II, and III. It addresses the challenge of establishing local network games in these versions when traditional methods, such as direct IP connection or using the in-game lobby browser, prove problematic. The server emulates the functionality of the official Age of Empires online servers, providing a local alternative that bypasses the need for internet connectivity. Players on the same local area network can connect to this locally hosted server, browse available games, and join matches as if they were using the official online service, but entirely offline. The server application is packaged as a standalone executable, simplifying the setup process and eliminating dependencies on complex configurations or external services. This allows players to enjoy the convenience and features of the standard online multiplayer experience within a fully contained local network environment, ideal for situations without internet access or for users who prefer to avoid relying on external servers for local play. The project aims to improve the experience of LAN gaming for these titles, providing a more robust and user-friendly solution compared to the default methods often hampered by network configurations or technical limitations.
Summary of Comments ( 64 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43562860
Hacker News users generally expressed enthusiasm for the ageLANServer project, praising its ability to facilitate offline LAN play for Age of Empires games without requiring port forwarding or other complex networking setups. Some users shared nostalgic memories of playing these games on LAN and expressed excitement at the prospect of easily recreating that experience. Several commenters inquired about or suggested features, including support for cross-platform play between Steam and Microsoft Store versions, integration with existing lobby systems like Voobly, and improved matchmaking functionality. The potential for modifications and custom scenarios within the offline LAN environment was also a point of interest. While mostly positive, some users raised concerns about the project's reliance on UPnP, suggesting alternative approaches for network discovery and connection.
The Hacker News post about ageLANServer, a web server enabling offline LAN play for Age of Empires I, II, and III Definitive Editions, generated several comments discussing various aspects of the project.
Many commenters expressed appreciation for the project, highlighting the desire for offline LAN functionality, particularly for scenarios with unreliable or absent internet connections. They saw this as a valuable tool for preserving the classic LAN party experience, a sentiment echoed throughout the thread.
Some users questioned the necessity of a web server for this purpose, suggesting alternative methods like modifying the hosts file. However, other commenters explained the advantages of the web server approach, such as simplified setup and the potential for more advanced features. The developer themselves clarified that using a web server offers a more user-friendly experience than manually configuring network settings, particularly for less technically inclined users. They also pointed out that using a web server allows integrating features like an automatic server browser, which would be significantly more complex with host file modifications.
A few comments touched on the technical details of the project, inquiring about the specific mechanisms used to intercept and redirect traffic. The developer provided some insight into the implementation, explaining how the tool leverages DNS and HTTP to achieve the desired functionality.
The discussion also explored potential future developments, including support for cross-play between Steam and Microsoft Store versions of the game, as well as the possibility of expanding support to other games. Commenters expressed interest in these features, further demonstrating the demand for solutions that facilitate local multiplayer gaming.
One recurring theme in the comments was the frustration with the current state of online gaming, with some users expressing disillusionment with always-online requirements and the perceived decline of local multiplayer. ageLANServer was seen as a positive step towards reclaiming the convenience and control offered by offline LAN play.
In summary, the comments on the Hacker News post reflect a strong positive reception for ageLANServer, driven by a desire for accessible offline LAN functionality. The discussion covered various aspects of the project, from technical details to potential future developments, showcasing the community's interest in preserving and enhancing the local multiplayer gaming experience.