Multiplayer has always been a core component of gaming. Pong came with two controllers, so that two players could pass the ball to each other. We’ve evolved a lot since then, but the need for multiplayer is still there for games. Some players prefer local multiplayer for that personal feeling, while others prefer online multiplayer because their loved ones are too far.
There’s a generational debate on whether online or local multiplayer is the better option. Older fans prefer local, because it’s more fun playing Street Fighter when your friends are there. Modern gamers prefer online play since it’s more convenient, and they can’t always play games in the same area with their friends.
It’s a tough argument with no right answer, but both sides have plenty of merit to them.
Local Multiplayer
Like we’ve previously mentioned, local multiplayer has that intimate feeling you just can’t replicate when playing online. Having a friend over, eating pizza with them, and playing a number of rounds in Street Fighter 6 or completing an area in TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge can’t be beat. Anything is more fun when your friends are there, so it’s easy to see why so many people prefer local.
Online lag is another reason why some fans prefer to play with their friends on the couch. While multiplayer over the internet has improved tremendously, the unpredictability surrounding the web can make any moment worse. This is especially bad for fighting games or other action titles that benefit from having couch co-op as a feature.
Getting everyone together isn’t easy, but that is what makes local multiplayer special. It makes each session feel more unique and gives us memories we’ll cherish for years.
Online Multiplayer
There are plenty of arguments as to why online multiplayer is the better option, mostly because entire games rely on having an online fanbase. Whether it’s Marvel Rivals or Overwatch 2, these games are entirely online, and people love to log in and play daily. Since some of these games are “free” and offer prizes for players to keep playing, it makes these titles addictive.
Because these games are played online, you can just call a friend and see if they’re free for a game. It might sound sad, but that convenience is great for people who want to relax and not prepare their house for people to come over. Plus, they also don’t have to confront the noob that they killed with ease.
Convenience and avoiding unnecessary confrontations are great reasons to keep playing online. While it can feel less personal, there are people who have formed friendships with strangers online and even mourn their loss when tragedy strikes. After events like the pandemic, any form of companionship can feel special.
Do you prefer local multiplayer or Online multiplayer? Let us know on social media, and stay tuned to Gfinity: the best place for multiplayer discourse.