3 Ways to Play Warcraft III Online Without Battle.Net

2024 Author: Jason Gerald | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 10:50

When you can't connect to Battle.net, you'll feel that it's impossible to play Warcraft III online. Luckily, you can use the service to become connected with other players without having to log into Battle.net. Follow the method in this guide.

Step

Method 1 of 3: Learn about Multiplayer Host Programs

Step 1. Understand what this program does

You can use third-party programs to emulate LAN (Local Area Network) games. This means you will not be connected to a game server while playing. Most of these services require you to register an account, and some offer paid subscriptions for other options.

Step 2. Find the program you want to download

There are several programs available for playing LAN online. Two of the most popular are Garena+ and GameRanger. Both are free and offer the option of paying an annual fee to remove ads and more support. Both programs support Warcraft III and its expansion packs.

Step 3. Understand the downsides

You must open certain ports to use this program, so it may pose a security risk. You may also be playing with hackers and cheaters, as accounts that have been rejected for cheating on Battle.net can access the program without being restricted.

Method 2 of 3: Using GameRanger

Step 1. Download the GameRanger client

You can download this client on the GameRanger website. Run the installation file after the download is complete. The size of this client is very small, less than 1 MB.

• GameRanger will automatically download and install program updates. Once updated, the program will start downloading additional content. This may take a little while.

  

Step 2. Create an account

Once the installation is complete, you will begin the account creation process. You must agree to the terms of service before proceeding. After agreeing to it, you will be given the choice of whether to use an existing account or create a new one.

• If you have an invitation code from a friend, you can log in after selecting Create New Account.

  

• You need a valid email address to start an account. You must also create a password for your account.

  

Step 3. Choose a nickname

You will be asked to create a nickname. The game will by default display your first name in this box. Make sure you change it to protect your identity. GameRanger will also ask you to enter your real name. This will be visible to the public, so think carefully about the risks.

Step 4. Enable the obscenity filter

If you don't like foul language, or your kids will use the program, turn on the profanity filter. This feature will filter out offensive messages in the chat window. You can lock these filter options using a password.

Step 5. Choose your city

This will be displayed in your profile and used to match you to the nearest game.

Step 6. Verify your email account

After creating an account, GameRanger will send an email to the address you provided. Click the link provided to activate the account before clicking Continue in the GameRanger window. After you click the verification link, click Next to enter GameRanger.

Step 7. Add your Warcraft III game files

To join the game, you must tell GameRanger where your Warcraft III program is. Click the Edit menu and select Options… on the Games tab, scroll down until you find Warcraft III. In the Location section, click Browse and navigate to the Warcraft installation if it is not already set.

Step 8. Look for the game

In the main Games list, scroll down to Warcraft III, or select My Games from the drop-down menu and select a Warcraft III game. Each game listed is a lobby managed by someone else. Look for games that have a full Ping, as well as a green light indicating you can join them.

• The game description will say which version of Warcraft you should have. Most games use the latest patches (aka patches).

  

• Games with lock icons require a password to join them. The manager of this game has set a password.

  

Step 9. Wait for the game to start

After joining the lobby, the Host will start the game when ready. Once the game starts, Warcraft III will auto-launch and automatically join the game via the LAN menu.

Method 3 of 3: Using Garena+

Step 1. Download the Garena+ client

You can download this client from the Garena+ website. Run the installation file after the download is complete. The client installation file is about 60 MB in size.

Step 2. Install the program

Run the installation once you have finished downloading it. The installation will run automatically, you just need to specify a location to install all the files. Most users can use default location. Run the program after the installation is complete.

Step 3. Create an account

Log in if you already have a Garena account. If you have to create a new account, click the Create Account link at the bottom of the launcher. Enter a valid email address and create a username. Garena will check if the name is already in use. If so, you should choose a different name.

Step 4. Sign in

Use your new account to sign in to the Garena+ program. Log in using your username and not your email address. Your friends list will open.

Step 5. Look for the game

Click the LAN button in the friends list. This will open the Garena+ game browser. Click the Games button, then select Warcraft III from the options. This will open a list of lobbies for Warcraft III. You can select your region from the left menu.

Step 6. Configure your game files

Click the Menu button in the lower left corner of the game browser. Select Settings in the menu that opens. On the Game Settings tab, scroll down to Warcraft III. Make sure the execution options are set correctly in the “Executable Settings” field. Click the gear icon to locate your Warcraft III program file.

Step 7. Join the game

After configuring the game settings, you can join the games in the lobby. Click Server List to view available games. Upon joining, Warcraft III will automatically start and join the game via the LAN menu.