What is LANPARTY2000?

LANPARTY2000 is a small retro LAN party hosted at my house. We get together to play classic multiplayer PC games from the late 1990s and early 2000s on a local network, the way they were meant to be played.

When does it happen?

The event happens on the 1st Saturday of an even numbered month. In practice, that means the first Saturday of February, April, June, August, October, and December.

We're all adults with families and responsibilities, so an all night LAN party is just not in the cards. We normally open the doors at 8am and try to get everyone setup and in game by 9am. We play until 12pm. This way we're free to do family stuff for the rest of the weekend.

Where is it held?

It is held at my house. Exact address and arrival details are shared directly with confirmed players.

How many people can attend?

There is a hard limit of 8 players. Keeping it small makes setup easier, keeps the games running smoothly, and gives everyone enough space.

How do I register for a spot?

Join our Discord and about a week before the event, the host will post that event's schedule which opens up the registration system. The post will contain instructions on how to register.

To ensure that only those who are serious attempt to reserve a seat, a $20 deposit is required to secure your seat, which is fully refunded at the end of the event.

In the case of too many regestrations, preferences will be given to those who have participated in a prior event. A random drawing will then be performed by the host.

Once your registration is confirmed in Discord, you have 24 hours to make your deposit using the instructions provided. Confirmations and failures will be posted publicaly in Discord. Any failure to make the deposit within 24 hours will have the host announce that your seat is now available and the registration process repeats for your spot.

The host reserves the right to reserve spots for specific individuals without any restrictions. These terms can change at any time witout notice.

What happens if all spots are taken?

You will need to wait to see if someone doesn't confirm their registration with a deposit, which will be broadcast in Discord. Or you may have to just try to catch the next event.

Do I need to bring my own computer?

Please don't. Laptops are provided for everyone. The goal is to keep the setup simple and make it easy for people to just show up and play.

Can I bring my own keyboard, mouse, or headset?

Yes, if you prefer your own gear and it is easy to plug in. The provided laptops are enough to play, but personal peripherals are fine as long as setup stays simple.

What games do you play?

Mostly retro LAN games from 1995 to 2005. That usually includes games like Quake III Arena, Counter-Strike, Unreal Tournament, and other classics depending on what the host feels like playing.

Do I have to play the games as scheduled?

It's highly encouraged for everyone to participate in the games as scheduled. Since we do not have a large group, your absence from the game will be felt, especially if we play teams. If there are games on the schedule you would prefer not to play, you might consider skipping the session.

Who sets up the LAN game servers that we play on?

The host determins which server is the official server that should be used. If you have experience setting up a game server and want to be in charge of that game's server, discuss it with the host. Unauthorized servers should not be created.

Are the games original old versions?

Yes, the focus is on the classic LAN experience. The setup is built around older PC multiplayer games and the feel of that era, rather than modern remasters or online matchmaking.

Do I need to install anything?

No. The laptops are set up ahead of time so people can get into games quickly without needing to troubleshoot installs, patches, or drivers. Set your alias, check your keybinds, and jump in.

What if I have never played these games before?

That is completely fine. Some people come for nostalgia, and some come to try out classic PC games for the first time. Most of these games are easy to jump into and learn as you go. Many of the games can be purchased for a few dollars on gog.com. Check with the host to ensure the games you are buying are on the schedule.

How are games determined and is there a schedule?

The host will typically publish a schedule of games 1 week prior to the event. That will also be the point in which you may reserve your seat.

Is this a competitive event?

Not really. The main point is to have fun, enjoy the old-school LAN atmosphere, and play great games together. Some matches get intense, but the event is meant to be relaxed and social. We somtimes team up and play against bots to test our skills against the AI.

Is food provided?

Usually there will be a few snacks and drinks, but it is a good idea to eat beforehand or bring anything specific you want. Details can vary from one event to another.

What kind of food or drinks may I bring?

Any drink will need a spill proof lid, and that lid will need to be kept on when not being used. Food must be eaten away from the laptops because sticky keyboards are gross. If you are unsure, ask the host.

Is there internet access?

Maybe, but the main point is local multiplayer over the LAN. This is about classic network play, not modern online services. You should not expect Internet access.

Can I invite a friend?

Possibly, but space is limited to 8 players. Any extra person should be checked with the host first.

What should I expect from the vibe?

Think old-school PC gaming: network cables, classic shooters, strategy games, co-op chaos, low-latency matches, and a room full of people arguing about who was clearly screen-looking.

Is this for serious retro PC fans only?

No. It is for anyone who likes games, local multiplayer, or the idea of experiencing a classic LAN party. Being an expert is not required.

Why only retro games?

The whole point is to preserve a specific kind of multiplayer experience that used to be common: everybody in the same room, on the same network, playing games from a very specific era of PC gaming.

Can I take photos or video?

Due to the venue being a private residence, the host asks that you refrain from taking any video or pictures without their permission.

Can I suggest a game?

Yes. Game suggestions are welcome, especially if they fit the 1995 to 2005 retro LAN theme and work well for a group of up to 8 players. However, any suggestions will be for future sessions. The schedule, once published, is final.

Can I install (software or program)?

No.

What do you get out of this?

I don't profit financially from this event - in fact, it usually costs me money to run. What I gain instead is the opportunity to meet new people, make new friends, and bring together a group of people who enjoy the same hobby. That's what a LAN party should be about.