The phrase describes a particular class of multiplayer video video games designed to be performed on an area space community (LAN). These video games allow people to attach a number of computer systems or consoles inside a restricted bodily area, corresponding to a house or workplace, to facilitate gameplay amongst individuals in the identical location. This contrasts with on-line multiplayer, which connects gamers throughout geographically dispersed places through the web.
Facilitating social interplay and fostering a way of camaraderie amongst gamers are important features of this type of gaming. Traditionally, it served as a major methodology for multiplayer gaming earlier than widespread broadband web entry turned out there. The format encourages direct communication and collaboration, enhancing the general gaming expertise. Additional, it bypasses potential latency points typically related to internet-based gaming, providing a extra responsive and streamlined expertise.