FIRAXIS PLEASE READ Latest update killed direct IP connection

[Aweather]

The direct IP connection option is missing after the lastest update. Does anyone know how to fix this? Any suggestions would be highly appreciated!

[Futhalero]

From http://support.2k.com/hc/en-us/articles/201967707-2K-Online-Server-Migration-from-GameSpy-Technology

The patch that replaces GameSpy with Steamworks for multiplayer functionality is now available via Steam. The game functions identically to the previous GameSpy version with the exception that the “Direct IP” option has been removed as it is no longer supported.

[EmptyMan]

What? Why? That makes no sense! Talk about strange moves...

[General Chaøs™]

Yea if the steamwork servers go down and you are in the middle of a mp game that will have negative consequences, plus steam users now cannot play with owners of the boxed version which really sucks since there are large number of retail box owners that play the game.

[red]

I believe the Steamworks servers are only used for finding games, so losing the connection to Steam won't affect games in progress.

If you own a disc version, you can contact 2K support as asked in their announcement.

[General Chaøs™]

Originally posted by red:

I believe the Steamworks servers are only used for finding games, so losing the connection to Steam won't affect games in progress.

If you own a disc version, you can contact 2K support as asked in their announcement.

In the announcment it says " online service interruptions will not impact offline/single-player gameplay" so I assume this is the case where you still are playing and hosting via ip. Since this game was never intended as a cross platform via steam or retail I am sure they will probably make it so owners of the disc version keys can be redeemed on steam for a steam version.

Thats all well and good if that is the case, but those who wish not to use steam but want to play with their friends who own it on steam will be left out. I know they represent a minority but Civ IV complete is a highly played civ mp game amongst retail owners. Personally for me all my friends I even play it with have it via steam and retail so its no worry for us, but others might not have it that way. Do not know why they removed direct ip, could be that its required for steamworks use, I dunno but simple remedy would be to just put it back in.

[Aweather]

The thing is that no password protection could be added to saved direct ip games. Old saves either doesn't work or has to become public.

[Noodle Ninja]

I'm very angry at no direct ip. Is there a way to not patch or revert patch?

[Spacewolf]

Is this a joke? Isn't this the way most people played this game?

[Furiey]

There is a thread on the 2K forum for people to comment on the removal of Ditect IP here: http://forums.2k.com/showthread.php?563191-Steam-multiplayer-update-and-Civilization-IV-Pitboss

[thaeli]

From that thread: Direct IP can be restored by enabling beta versions. There is a PC "beta" that is actually the original version before Direct IP was removed.

[Konrad Black]

^ I can clarify that this works - though PitBoss may warn about files not matching, there doesn't seem to be any issues.

[Koketsu]

just use Evolve and have a Lan party like it was 1984