5 Best Games for LAN Parties
LAN parties are a fantastic way to get together with friends for a good spot of gaming. However, there’s such a saturated game market out there that it can be difficult for everyone to get on the same page about which games to play. Luckily, we’ve got you covered with this list of five best games for LAN parties.
What is a LAN Party?
LAN parties are opportunities for gamers, typically using computers, to come together and play their favorite multiplayer games using a local area network (LAN) connection. LAN parties have been around since the early days of computer gaming, where they were often held at universities and other venues. However, thanks to innovations in fiber optic internet, there’s nothing to stop you from hosting a LAN party at home.
Team Fortress 2
Team Fortress 2 (TF2) is a free-to-play first-person shooter (FPS) game developed by Valve, which is the company behind the gaming platform Steam. Since its release in 2007, the game has had a series of updates including features, new maps, items, and classes. The premise is simple: two teams compete against each other to complete objectives. Each of the nine player classes has a different ability ranging from fast-moving to stealth.
TF2 is a popular option for LAN parties because it’s free, challenging, fun, and it’s very easy to learn.
Among Us
Among Us was released in 2018 for mobile and in 2020 for Nintendo Switch and PC, and it’s a game all about social deduction. Inside a spaceship, players are divided into Imposters and Crewmates. The Crewmates complete simple tasks while the Imposters sabotage the ship and attempt to kill the Crewmates. The mission is clear: either kill the Crewmates or identify the Imposters.
This game is brilliant for LAN parties because it can be accessed on almost any device, it’s easy to use, and it’s a great way to laugh with friends.
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive
An FPS game developed by Valve and Hidden Path Entertainment, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) pitches a team of terrorists against a team of counter-terrorists. One team has to plant a bomb and the other team has to prevent the bomb threat. While it’s often played on PC, it can be accessed on PS3 and Xbox 360.
CS:GO is a great addition to any LAN party because it has a simple goal but there’s a steep learning curve, meaning it’s got an appropriate level of challenge.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the latest release in the popular Nintendo game series. Featuring characters from the Mario universe, players race against each other in a whacky event full of explosions and deception. There are around 42 characters to choose from, 48 tracks, and several different modes including couch/online multiplayer, which is why it’s a popular choice for LAN parties.
Choosing games for a LAN party can be challenging, so we hope this list at least points you in the right direction. However, you should note that it’s by no means extensive, so head out and do your own research.
