FAQ

What is ArenaAnywhere?

A set of free relay servers for PPSSPP that let you play ad-hoc multiplayer with anyone in the world. No VPN, no special setup — just pick a server in PPSSPP and play.

Does it cost anything?

Nothing. No subscription, no registration, no hidden limits. The servers are community-supported through donations.

Which games work?

Any PPSSPP game with ad-hoc multiplayer. The most active ones are PES, Monster Hunter Freedom Unite, Monster Hunter 3rd, Tekken 6, Dragon Ball Z Shin Budokai 2, God Eater Burst, and GTA Vice City Stories.

Do I need to download anything extra?

Just PPSSPP 1.20 or later. ArenaAnywhere is already in the built-in server list — no extra apps or installs needed.

How do I configure PPSSPP?

Go to Settings → Networking → Ad hoc server address and pick ArenaAnywhere from the dropdown. Then set:

• Port offset: 10000
• Server-provided packet relay: ON
• Enable UPnP: OFF

Which server should I use?

Pick the one closest to you:

• Africa: South Africa server
• Pakistan / India / Gulf: Dubai server
• Europe: Europe server
• Japan / Southeast Asia: Asia server

If a server feels slow, try a different one.

Do I need a VPN?

No. The relay handles the connection between players. Turn your VPN off if you have one — it can sometimes cause issues.

Rooms aren't showing up. What's wrong?

This is almost always a settings mismatch. Check that:

• Both players are on the same server
• Port offset is 10000 for both
• Packet relay is ON for both
• You're in the same lobby group name
• You're running the same game version

What are the server addresses?

relay-sa.arenaanywhere.site — South Africa
relay-asia.arenaanywhere.site — Asia
relay.arenaanywhere.site — Europe
relay-dubai.arenaanywhere.site — Dubai

How do I join a room?

Both players join the same group name in-game (usually LOBBY). One creates a room, the other scans for rooms. If settings are correct it shows up straight away.

Can I play with friends in other countries?

Yes, that's the whole point. Players in Nigeria, South Africa, Pakistan, Indonesia, Brazil, and everywhere else play on ArenaAnywhere daily.

What ping should I expect?

Using the nearest server:

• Nigeria → SA: 90–110ms
• South Africa → SA: 20–40ms
• Pakistan → Dubai: 80–120ms
• Europe → EU: 30–80ms
• Japan → Asia: 70–90ms

These are playable for most games.

My friend and I are on the same server but still lagging.

Make sure both of you have identical settings — same server, port offset 10000, packet relay ON, UPnP OFF. If lag only happens with one specific friend, the issue is usually on their end — weak connection or wrong settings.

Does in-game chat work?

Yes, in-game chat works through the relay the same as normal ad-hoc play.

Still stuck?