Hosting StarCraft I Games: Classic LAN/DirectIP & Modern Battle.net

Hosting StarCraft (1998) differs by era:

Classic (1998–2009): LAN / Direct IP

1. Install StarCraft (CD or GOG/Blizzard digital).
2. LAN: Connect PCs via ethernet/switch. Host creates game → others join via "Local Area Network (UDP)."
3. DirectIP (Internet): Host finds WAN IP (whatismyip.com), port forwards 6112 TCP/UDP. Guests join "Custom Game" → enter IP.

Modern (Remastered / Battle.net 2.0)

1. Install StarCraft: Remastered (Blizzard app / GOG).
2. Login Battle.net.
3. Multiplayer → Create Game → Set map, race, slots, observers.
4. Friends join via Battle.net friend list or "Join Game" lobby browser.

Critical Setup

• Map Sync: All players need identical .scm/.scx files (download from StarCraft Map Archive, TL.net).
• Version Match: 1.16.1 (classic) or latest Remastered patch.
• Firewall: Allow StarCraft.exe / SC2.exe inbound/outbound.
• Latency: Host closest to majority for best sync.

Battle.net 2.0 is vastly superior: NAT traversal, matchmaking, reconnect, anti-cheat.