> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://mpn.tabs.gay/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Dolphin-MPN Troubleshooting

> Common issues and solutions for Dolphin-MPN netplay

# Dolphin-MPN Troubleshooting

This guide covers common issues you might encounter while setting up or playing Mario Party 4-8 netplay with Dolphin-MPN.

## Connection Issues

### Can't connect to traversal lobby

**Problem**: Dolphin stalls when trying to join someone's traversal lobby.

**Solution**:

* You may only be able to connect to lobbies hosted over Direct Connect
* Either have the player unable to connect host the traversal lobby themselves
* Or have the host forward a port and host over Direct Connect
* If you need help forwarding a port, try following [this guide](https://portforward.com/)

### Direct Connect vs Traversal Server

**When to use Direct Connect**:

* When the traversal server is down
* For players who have trouble with the traversal server at all times
* May be the only way to play for some users

## Game Issues

### Black screen during emulation

**Problem**: The game shows up as a black screen when starting netplay.

**Solution**:

* The black screen is caused by players not starting emulation at the same time
* Ensure that no one in the lobby is running the game before the host starts netplay

### Board went black during Mario Party

**Problem**: The board went black while playing Mario Party.

**Solution**:

* In-game, quit out of the party and try again
* If you've been saving every turn, no progress will be lost

### Frame 0 desync

**Problem**: Someone desynced on frame 0.

**Solution**:

* A frame 0 desync means there's a checksum mismatch
* All players should have the same game version
* Verify your game files match the required checksums

## Performance Issues

### Reducing netplay lag

**Solutions**:

* Increase buffer settings
* Close any other programs using internet (web browsers, Skype, etc.)
* Make sure no one on the same network is using the internet (family, roommates)
* Seek out players from nearby regions
* Ensure it's actually netplay lag by having each player test FPS locally

**About Buffer/Lag**:

* Buffer refers to the amount of frames of input delay
* The larger it is, the more smoothly the game will run (provided all players can run the game fine offline)
* You can set it mid-game
* Always set it to the lowest value that gives you a smooth framerate to reduce unnecessary input delay

### Graphics performance

**Problem**: The game's graphics are bad or performance is poor.

**Solution**:

* The resolution and anti-aliasing can be changed without issue
* However, it's not recommended as emulation will require more resources
* If you want to edit these options, load a splitscreen Mini-Game such as MP6's Circuit Maximus offline and confirm the game speed does not decrease

## Save File Issues

### Corrupted save files

**Problem**: Save file is corrupted.

**Solution**:

* Try formatting the data
* Or redownload the saves from the Dolphin-MPN package

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: I already have Dolphin, do I need to download it again?

**A**: Ideally yes, this guide provides a version of the emulator geared specifically for netplay, but as long as the host is using our build, any modern Dolphin build should be able to connect.

### Q: How do I use the GameCube Mic accessory over netplay?

**A**: Mic compatibility is currently not possible over netplay.

### Q: How do I play Mario Party 7's Deluxe Cruise mode over netplay?

**A**: 8-player netplay is currently not possible over netplay.

### Q: Multiple people on same computer?

**A**: It's possible for multiple people to play from the same computer as long as the controllers they're using are plugged in and the host allows them use of multiple ports.

### Q: Hosting for 4 other people?

**A**: It's possible to host a room for 4 other people as long as the host disables their controller in Dolphin.

## Getting More Help

If you're still having issues:

1. Check our [Discord server](https://discord.gg/marioparty) for community support
2. Visit our [GitHub repository](https://github.com/MarioPartyNetplay) for updates and bug reports
3. Make sure you're using the latest version of the emulator
4. Verify your game files match the required checksums