How to play Civ IV online between Mac and Windows versions.

[lindsay40k]

2K have made it possible for Windows players to install the same, pre-Steamworks version that Mac users have. The two versions can, theoretically, be put on speaking terms.

Now, there's no lobby and matchmaking system, and it has to be done through a direct IP connection. On top of that, anyone who has updated to OSX Yosemite has to do some tinkering to get Civ IV to run.

Thing is, even with this information, I feel completely and utterly lost. There's an IP address that needs finding and ports that need opening, and every resource I find on doing either feels like I'm trying to learn how to plant an oak tree by walking in half way through a lecture on genetically modifying acorns.

I have a Macbook that connects to the internet through a Time Capsule. Is there anyone who comprehends technology who could take the time to give simple, plain english marching orders without stopping to explain things that will give me a headache and be immediately forgotten?

 

[AlanH]

If you want to play on the same local network, then you don't need to open ports on your router, and you can find your IP addresses just by looking in the Network Preferences,

If you want to play across the Internet, then you do need to do all that.

You can find out the IP address that another person needs to connect to by opening your browser and join to the following address:

http://www.whatismyip.com

This works for both computers that want to communicate. But remember that your IP address may change from time to time, or each time you reconnect your computer to the Internet.

Opening ports is a little more tricky to help you with, because you need to get into your router, and every router is different. I suggest you search in Google, like "port forwarding on time capsule". For example, I found this YouTube video on the subject.

 

[lindsay40k]

Thank you

Sadly, it seems my friend's mobile broadband does not allow her to open ports