Just how stable is Multiplayer?

[Ming]

I'd like to get a bunch of guys over for a LAN session of HOI, but since I have a router I haven't been able to test the multiplayer aspect.

Is the game stable enough to play for long periods of time?
How is lag?

(Preferably I'd like to hear from some people who have played on a LAN.)

Heck, can you change the game speed mid game?
Or save and change countries?

Also, is the game fun and balanced in multiplayer?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Diefledermas]

check the threads for information on how to get around the router issue (right up there on the top of the posts)

you CAN change countries mid game

game speed in MP is controlled by ctrl +/- (don't use the pop-up)

stability is an issue, you're going to have to deal with some crashes but it keeps getting better with every new version

slow the game down during wars to reduce lag time

make sure your players have cable (or dsl)

continental divides can effect speed/ctd factors as well

 

[Mr.Bigglesworth]

Originally posted by Ming

Or save and change countries?

Also, is the game fun and balanced in multiplayer?

You can't change countries in game, but you can change them in the load screen.

If you get the right mix of countries and players, the game is outstanding in MP. How many players will you have?

 

[Diefledermas]

er... Big is right.

I meant you can change on the load screen off of a save

 

[Ming]

Planning to have 8 if possible on a LAN. (The game does allow 8 players, right?)

I'd thought in my head it would be best to have a German, Russian, American, UK, Australian, Japanese, Italian and Nat Chinese player.

Thanks for the all the info, I"m really looking forward to it. If it all goes well, maybe I'll make an AAR.

Also, thanks for pointing me to the router info. I tried fiddling with it a month or so ago but my router didn't cooperate. I'll probably give it another try since I assume there's been more exposure.

 

[Mr.Bigglesworth]

I prefer having France in the game more than Australia. I think they can have a much bigger role in things, and they aren't doomed to be conquered, they can put up a good fight.

 

[Mazza]

I have never had a problem with lag on a LAN before with up to 4 players. We used to have major stability problems but we were playing before 1.03... haven't tried a LAN with 1.03 because we are sure that one of our players will definitely exploit the retreat bugs.

 

[Mazza]

Oh, and on the question as to whether the game is fun and balanced.... it is balanced if you pick the right countries and maybe come up with some house rules (if you like).

As for it being fun... IMO Hearts of Iron multiplayer on a LAN is how the game was meant to be played. Nothing like being in the same room as your allies and opponents as the mother of all wars wages on your screens!

 

[unmerged(8114)]

I suggest Germany, Italy, UK and SU for a balanced start game. The most experienced (or best) should play Germany.