The game now depend on the Galaxy client for multiplayer, pretty much like Battlefront 2. Unlike Battlefront 2 however this game doesn't feature LAN connection so you're all lost to play with your friend even if he's only one meter away from you. This especially true if you have a mixed GOG-Steam version for each.

This is time perfect time to implement LAN support. I guess it isn't much to ask to include a server software that can run a server for 2-3 players. I guess I can talk in the name of everyone we doesn't need the full featured server program to create large networks. For DRM free use the game should have a command line to connect to IP rather than the client's network to make sure that LAN works.

2-3 players, enough if only coop works, tournament mod isn't required for LAN, and direct connection to specify the LAN server to make the connection possible without clients. This is everything I ask for. Now as we got the expansion which isn't free yet gives no better options at least make the local network possible.

Came here looking for this information, was considering a purchase but I'll be skipping this game if Galaxy is required for multiplayer.

Galaxy is required sadly. The Steam version also DRM free but capable of connecting to the server without Steam running in the background. There is no LAN option however. You can't create servers and play offline on local network. It is really disappointing for me too.

As far as Battlefront 2 I can still play LAN without Galaxy with offline installers or if I use a total conversion mod. I'm sure something similar may be in effect here, but I can't confirm since I haven't tried yet. I'll see what I can find out over the next couple of days and come back to you on that front.

Tempest has no server files included, that is the general problem. You can create rooms in the looby but can't create network even if you could somehow specify the connection.

Yeah, that is pretty weird. I personally wouldn't know why it doesn't have it since I am not a programmer/IT specialist/coder. It is quite unusual of a problem indeed.

Actually pretty common in games with Steam origin. LAN and especially dedicated server files makes piracy easier and for them that is enough to not release anything that would make DRM free or not lobby multiplayer possible. Nowdays it start to be common in newer games on GOG too. Very disappointing if you ask me.

True, true.

That is an understandable reason.