LANCommander

LANCommander is an open-source digital game platform designed for local networks and LAN parties. It provides a self-hostable server and a dedicated launcher to manage, distribute and launch game archives without relying on internet-hosted assets.

Key Features

• Centralized game management: upload and organize game archives, metadata, covers and media
• Built-in distribution: HTTP(S) download endpoints for clients and a dedicated launcher for easy client setup
• Dedicated server management and basic chat for coordinating play sessions
• Local "cloud" user saves and user registration/user management features
• IPX beacon and UDP support for emulator/dosbox-style discovery
• Lightweight SQLite database backend for simple setup and portability
• Official Docker image with optional SteamCMD and WINE support for automated server builds
• LANCommander.SDK (.NET) for integrating or extending client applications

Use Cases

• Running a LAN party or local gaming event where internet access is restricted or unavailable
• Hosting a private game library and distributing installers/patches to a closed network of clients
• Managing dedicated game servers and coordinating players with integrated chat and discovery

Limitations and Considerations

• The official launcher has been primarily tested on Windows; other OS builds may have varying compatibility
• The Docker image runs the Linux build and some server/management features may be limited in that environment
• LANCommander does not include games; administrators must provide portable/DRM-free game archives
• Uses SQLite by default, which simplifies setup but can limit scalability for very large deployments

LANCommander is focused on reliable local distribution and simple administration for LAN-centric gaming. It is suited to event hosts and small networks that need an offline-capable game distribution and launcher system.