Multiplayer Setup for GTA 2
The first thing you need to know is that there are different versions of GTA 2, as it got re-released under a second publisher. These versions will normally connect to each other without problems as long as you are not using an upgraded version of the R* release of GTA 2.
Once you have found someone to play and maybe got your GTA 2 versions patched you need to know something else. GTA 2 net code is not particularly intelligent. If you are in certain types of LAN, especially if using a router of any kind, chances are GTA 2 will just plain not realise that you are there. The solution to the router problem tends to be just bypass the router and have the internet line running straight to your PC. On the whole, GTA 2 can get through LANs that are set up well. For more information about setting up GTA 2 when using a home network, check Sektor’s GTA 2 Setup Advice.
Optimising Performance
For all versions of GTA 2 there is some things which are a good idea to get standard when you play others. These settings are found in the GTA 2 Manager. Going through each tab:
| Name | Value | |
|---|---|---|
| Video | Resolution | 1024×768 is normal but most machines can go a lot higher. |
| Lighting | Noon is best as it allows a clear view of vehicle mines. | |
| Gamma Level | Between 10 and 16 works fine on my graphics cards. | |
| Exploding Scores | I normally turn these off so they don’t get in the way. | |
| Audio | Game/FX Volume | Set to the maximum, adjust speaker volume to suit. |
| Radio Volume | Set to about half or two-thirds FX Volume. Or turn it off and play real music. | |
| Network | Connection Type | Normally TCP/IP connection for internet games. |
| Show Player Names | Keep this on so you can see who your opponent is. | |
| Protocol Internet | This should be the IP of the person you are joining. |
Starting A Game
This used to be quite complicated but Sektor’s GTA 2 Game Hunter makes it easy. Download that program and read the readme.txt file which comes with it. Basically, you type in the name you want to use, a password and set your location and then sign in to the service. You can see a list of games people have created and choose one to join, or you can create your own game in it and wait for people to join you.
