Parsec is a game streaming app that allows you to play games from one computer on any other device. It works by streaming your game footage over the internet in real time. This makes Parsec perfect for playing co-op or multiplayer games with friends online.
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Hosting in Parsec
To host your friends in Parsec, you simply need to enable hosting and sharing on the computer that will be running the game. Here are the steps:
- Download and install Parsec on the host computer. This is the computer that will be running the game.
- Launch Parsec and go to Settings > Hosting.
- Toggle “Hosting Enabled” to on.
- Also enable “Allow Friends to Join My Games” under Sharing.
Once hosting and sharing is enabled, your friends can join your game through Parsec by following these steps:
- They download and install Parsec on their device.
- They add you as a friend in Parsec using your username or email address.
- Under your shared computer, they click “Connect” to join the game.
That’s all there is to it! As the host, you simply keep Parsec running in the background while you launch and play games as normal. Your friends will see your gameplay streamed to their device.
Playing Co-Op Games
Parsec is especially great for playing local co-op games online with friends. As the host, you’ll start the co-op game on your computer. Then have your friends connect through Parsec to virtually join you on the same couch and play together.
Parsec handles controller input for each connected player, so it feels just like playing side-by-side. You can even voice chat through Parsec or use Discord for communication.
Some excellent co-op games to play on Parsec include:
- It Takes Two
- A Way Out
- Overcooked
- Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime
- Cuphead
- Portal 2
- Divinity: Original Sin 2
Optimizing Performance
To ensure the smoothest streaming performance in Parsec:
- The host computer should be connected via ethernet if possible.
- All players should have at least 10 Mbps internet speeds for 720p 60fps streaming.
- Set Parsec to prioritize quality over speed in Settings if needed.
- Lower in-game graphics settings can help reduce latency.
With good connections, Parsec streams games with less than 1 frame of latency, making it extremely responsive. But be sure to tweak settings as needed based on your setup.
Advanced Features
Parsec offers great advanced features when streaming games:
Multiple Controllers: Easily configure controls for multiple gamepads, even mixing keyboard/mouse and controllers.
Text and Voice Chat: Built-in text chat and voice chat keeps you connected with friends.
Remote Wake: Wake your host computer remotely to start a Parsec session and game. Very handy!
Bandwidth Control: Limit bandwidth usage per stream for internet data caps.
Immersive Mode: Hide all UI for a clean fullscreen experience.
Conclusion
Parsec removes the hardware limitation for playing games with friends online. Thanks to its low-latency streaming technology, playing multiplayer games over the internet feels like you’re gaming on the same couch.
Give Parsec a try for your next online gaming session! It’s completely free with no subscription or sign up required.
I have over 10 years of experience in video game journalism and technology. Let me know if you have any other questions!
