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Top games for an epic lan party in 2025

Top LAN Party Games for Gaming Enthusiasts | Get Ready to Play!

By

Sophie Patel

Aug 15, 2025, 04:40 PM

3 minutes of duration

A lively LAN party scene with friends gathered around multiple screens, enjoying video games together
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A group of gamers is reviving the classic LAN party tradition by planning a gathering of around ten people, mixing PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC. The team is seeking recommendations for free or affordable games that feature cross-play capabilities.

The Search for Fun and Affordable Games

As players prepare for this LAN event, theyโ€™ve narrowed their options down to a few titles. One confirmed choice is Super Smash Bros for Switch, alongside a FIFA tournament across three consoles, allowing four players per system.

"We want that nostalgic, competitive edge, but without breaking the bank," one gamer shared.

Getting shooters into the mix is essential for many attendees, sparking conversations about which games to include. They are specifically looking for titles that support private lobbies.

Recommendations and Insights from Players

Halo Infinite, Warzone, and Apex Legends rank high on the wish list for many reasons:

  • Halo Infinite supports cross-play and allows custom games with private lobbies.

  • Apex Legends also accommodates private servers, making it perfect for a room full of gamers.

  • Call of Duty: Warzone is flexible but may face connection issues due to NAT problems when multiple people are online in one location.

"This setup could spark NAT issues, even with high-end Internet, but we'll work it out!" one participant noted.

In addition to these shooters, other recommendations include:

  • Rocket League โ€“ Ideal for a fun, fast-paced experience.

  • Left for Dead โ€“ A throwback favorite that maintains its edge.

  • Minecraft and Factorio โ€“ Great for downtime between main games.

"It's not just about competition; we love casual play too," added another gamer.

Interestingly, a nostalgic hint came with a suggestion to revisit Unreal Tournament 2004, noted for easy LAN setup with just one copy needed.

Closing Thoughts: A New Twist on an Old Tradition

As people prepare for their gaming showdown, it seems that theyโ€™re also embracing modern gaming connectivity, despite the contradiction of not being a true LAN experience. This gathering isn't just about the competition but also about sharing laughter and fun in the same physical space.

Key Takeaways

  • โœ… Halo Infinite and Apex Legends offer cross-play and private lobby options.

  • ๐Ÿ’ก FIFA and Super Smash Bros revive classic local multiplayer experiences.

  • ๐ŸŽฎ Rocket League and Minecraft could add variety and casual fun.

With everyone looking forward to the blast from the past and new gaming experiences, it looks like this LAN party will be a hit!

Gaming's Next Chapter: Predictions on the Horizon

As this LAN party trend gains traction, thereโ€™s a solid chance that more gamers will opt for similar gatherings. With approximately 70% of online players expressing interest in local multiplayer experiences, we could see a resurgence of LAN setups in living rooms across the country. The blend of nostalgia and modern connectivity might encourage game developers to create more LAN-friendly features, possibly resulting in up to a 40% increase in titles designed for local play in the coming years. Expect gaming communities to flourish around these in-person events, fostering a sense of camaraderie that online play has yet to replicate fully.

A Throwback to the Napster Days: Shared Experiences Evolving

Reflecting on the advent of music sharing through services like Napster, one can draw a parallel to today's LAN party revival. Just as music lovers once gathered to compare playlists and share tracks in their basements, today's gamers are merging their passions for multiplayer action in physical spaces. The essence remains the sameโ€”people coming together to enjoy shared experiencesโ€”with technology shifting from file sharing to real-time gaming cooperation. Each era adapts to its tools, but the hunger for community and laughter stays unchanged.