*Insert generic complaint about having to use Steam here*
Standalone Server
As is the case with all serious multiplayer games, EU4 comes with the option for standalone servers. This program allows you to run an instance of EU4 that is simply a server of game-mechanics with no graphical interface, or player playing on it.
As I understand, we will have the better of both world :
- Steam network for ease of use, no NAT setup.
- Standalone server for LAN, advanced users or when Steam has issues. Maybe too for using mods which will require server modification.
A little analogy : I play only play Minecraft on a server, even if alone, when the server is on my own PC. It adds more flexibility.
Every damn time I read one of these I get that bit more excited.
Does this mean that the whole game will only be playable via Steam?
My first experience with CKII online was something like this: 5 people wanting to play online,after 2 hours of port fowarding and failed attempts, we had 5 sad people playing single player.
I understand some of the hate towards steam, DRM, its restrictions etc but I think it is justifiable for amount of good features (and less headache) that steam can offer.