How to Play Online Sessions with Friends in Virtual Sailor NG

Have you ever wondered if it’s possible to play online with your friends in Virtual Sailor NG (VSNG)?
Good news it is! Here’s a complete step-by-step guide to help you set up and enjoy online sessions.

Important Notes Before You Begin

Before jumping in, there are a few key things to keep in mind:
• Limited Player Support: VSNG online sessions are sensitive to player connection stability, ship and scenery size. Heavier ships and detailed ports can cause performance issues or crashes. In general, we recommend a maximum of 4 players, though very heavy models may only support 2 players reliably.
• Everyone Needs the Same Add-ons: All participants must have the same ships and scenery installed. If a player doesn’t have a specific ship or scenery file, they won’t be able to see it ingame.

Step 1: Download Radmin VPN
To simulate a local network over the internet, you’ll need software like Radmin VPN. Download it here: https://www.radmin-vpn.com/ Once everyone has installed Radmin VPN:
1. One person in the group should host the session by clicking “Create Network” and setting a name and password.
2. Share the network credentials with the others.
3. The remaining players should click “Join Network” on Radmin VPN and enter the host’s network name and password. Now, everyone should be connected in the same virtual LAN.

Step 2: Set Up the Simulation
1. Launch Virtual Sailor NG and the host have to load the scenery where you plan to play.
2. Place the ships you want to use in position before starting the session.
3. The host should then go to “Network” → “Connect” in the top menu and click “Host a New Session.”
4. All other players (the joiners) should also go to “Network” → “Connect”, but this time they will:
o Enter the host’s IP address that he will told you (shown under “My IP & Port” on the host’s screen) into the “Remote IP & Port” field.
o Click “Join an Existing Session.”
If all goes well, players will spawn into the scenery. The first time you join, you might be kicked out after a few minutes don’t worry! Just repeat the IP entry and rejoin.

Tips for a Stable Online Experience
• Monitor Player Status: Only the host can tell if someone has crashed. Even if you see others’ names in the top right corner, you may have disconnected. Ask the host to confirm everyone is still connected.
• Watch for Glitches: If you see ships behaving strangely (e.g., sailing full speed through port when they should be docked), you’ve likely crashed. Rejoin the session using the same steps.
• Stay in Your Ship: To avoid visual glitches for others, avoid free camera mode. Always remain in your ship to ensure proper synchronization.
• Use Lightweight Content: To reduce the chance of crashes, stick to lighter ships and scenery whenever possible.

Ending the Session
When you’re done playing:
• The host can end the session by clicking “Disconnect and Close Session” in the same Network menu.
• Or simply close the simulator.

That’s it! With this guide, you and your friends should be able to enjoy smooth sailing together in Virtual Sailor NG!