It might be an unusual point of view but here at EPIX, we are encouraged to play PC multiplayer video games. Ian and Mike see it as a great way for us to interact, have fun, and grow as a team.
So, with that in mind, what multiplayer PC video games (that you can install on your work laptops) should you play with your colleagues to pass the time at lunch – or maybe even when you should be working?! We think multiplayer games that offer either a competitive experience or the chance to work together as a team are good for improving employee cohesion.
Currently, we play OpenArena, which is a first-person shooter from 2008. It is an undemanding game that can run on almost any machine. There is also a web version, OpenArena Live, which can be played in the browser and means you don’t need to download anything. It is also completely free. However, because of its age, the graphics are quite disappointing. OpenArena is a simple game that has a range of guns used to shoot other players, you can either play as two teams or independently in a free-for-all.
Another game I recommend is Insurgency: an ultra-realistic first-person shooter that offers multiplayer and cooperative game modes. It can also be played against AI enemies to make it easier. Insurgency requires players to work as a team to defeat enemies and is a good game for a team-building exercise. It is not very taxing to run and should be okay on most modern laptops, even without a dedicated graphics card. I’ve personally poured 50 hours into this game and a further 170 hours into the newer version of this game called Insurgency: Sandstorm.
Another first-person shooter is CSGO, which is more of an arcade type of shooter compared to the ultra-realism of Insurgency. CSGO is a multiplayer game that lets you play with or against your colleagues. Just like Insurgency, it will run on most modern laptops.
Minecraft is a very popular game that you will no doubt have heard of. It is a creation/survival game that requires players to collect items and build shelter to survive. Minecraft also lets you create amazing structures such as houses to show off your creative side. It has a co-op mode so you can play with as many other players as you want to – they can also help you survive or create things. Minecraft won’t require a powerful PC to run and should work on most laptops.
Assetto Corsa is a multiplayer racing simulator that lets you race around in your favourite cars with other players. With the help of mods, you can add cars, maps, and more to create the perfect driving experience. Paired with a steering wheel and pedals it provides one of the most lifelike driving experiences you can get at home (or in the office!). It also lets you free roam around a map without having to race, which can provide a more relaxing experience. Assetto Corsa is also an easy game to run and should be fine on most modern laptops.
So, my recommendations depend on what type of game you like to play the most – some games like Insurgency and Minecraft will mean you and your colleagues need to work together while the other games will let you play together but not as a team.
I hope this has inspired you to try some multiplayer games with your colleagues!
Zahir
