Gaming has significantly advanced and evolved throughout the years. Players are currently in a time when almost every video game can be played online.
With that said, one might think that LAN parties are now nothing but relics of the past. However, that is not the case. The old-school gaming gathering is far from dead and still has appeal for many gamers.
This article explains what makes a LAN party and why it still thrives today. At the same time, it will provide a quick recommendation of the best games for LAN parties in 2025.
Defining a LAN Party
A LAN party is a physical gaming event where gamers meet up with their PCs or consoles to play together in person. In detail, they connect their rigs to a local area network for multiplayer sessions. During the early 2000s, it was the go-to for gaming with friends.
Why Gamers Still Love LAN Parties
Admittedly, it can be said that modern online gaming rules. Specifically, Discord servers, lag-free lobbies, and massively multiplayer online games dominate the space nowadays. Everyone can play and connect virtually — thanks to modern technology. Besides, online gaming lets people play with their peers just like at a LAN party.
However, gamers still do LAN parties now for the real-world energy that one cannot get online. They give an immediate, tangible interaction. Every shout, laugh, and reaction happens live. Just playing with everyone in the same room creates a whole new atmosphere. This level of connection makes for unforgettable moments of gaming that develop a sense of community.
As cherries on top, gamers do it for nostalgia and convenience. It becomes a way for them to relive treasured memories, such as burning CDs for custom maps, modding cases, and the like. In line with this, LAN parties are now easier to do since most setups are portable. So, they satisfy their craving for connection without the hassle of setting up old tech.
Games to Keep LAN Parties Alive
Here is a quick rundown of titles that are accessible and compact, making them suitable for LAN parties:
- Act of War: Direct Action
- Battlefield Series
- Call of Duty Series
- Factorio
- Ground Control II: Operation Exodus
- Homeworld 2
- Minecraft
- Re-Volt
- Supreme Commander
- Warcraft 3 Frozen Throne
Key Takeaways
In 2025, LAN parties are not just surviving — they are adapting. As a matter of fact, this old-school setup is an essential. It is the valuable contrast every gamer needs right now. LAN parties not only offer nostalgia but also a chance to experience a genuine physical human connection that modern online play often misses.
There is nothing wrong with the modern way. But to be honest, it is about time to gather the old squad, set up the gaming rigs, and start LAN parties once again.
Note: This article incorporates information from multiple sources, such as Games Genie, Land of Geek, Plarium, Sports of the Day, and GhostCap, to ensure depth and reliability.
