What is Network Play in Sorting History?

Network Play is a multiplayer mode where each team plays on their own device, connected over the same WiFi network. One player hosts the game and configures the settings. Other players join from their devices. No internet connection is required — it works over local WiFi only.

Does Network Play need an internet connection?

No. Network Play works over a local WiFi network without internet. All devices must be on the same WiFi, but the WiFi does not need to be connected to the internet. This makes it work in places with no cell signal or limited connectivity.

What happens if a device disconnects during Network Play?

If a device disconnects during a Network Play game, the game pauses and waits for the device to reconnect. If the device does not reconnect, the game can continue without that team.

How many devices can play Network Play at once?

Network Play supports 2 to 8 teams. Each team uses one device. So you need 2 to 8 devices total, all on the same WiFi network. Each team can have multiple players gathered around their device.

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How to Play Network Play

Network Play lets each team play on their own device, connected over the same WiFi network. One person hosts, everyone else joins. No internet required.

What You Need

2–8 iOS devices (iPhones, iPads, or a mix)
Sorting History installed on every device
Same WiFi network — all devices must be connected to the same WiFi. No internet is needed, just a shared local network.

For the Host

Sorting History game setup screen — the host configures game mode, scoring, and categories for all players — The host sets up the game — guests join with the same settings.

The host creates the game and controls the settings. Any device can be the host.

Tap Play on the main menu.
Select Sorting History as the game mode.
Choose Network Play and tap Host Game.
Set up teams. Add 2–8 teams with custom names.
Pick categories, scoring mode, and game length — same options as Solo and Pass & Play.
Wait for guests to connect. The host screen shows which devices have joined.
Tap Start Game once everyone is connected.

For Guests

Make sure you're on the same WiFi network as the host.
Tap Play on the main menu.
Select Sorting History as the game mode.
Choose Network Play and tap Join Game.
Wait for the host. You'll see "Waiting for host..." until the game begins.

During the Game

Teams take turns in a shared rotation. When it's your team's turn, your device becomes active.
Place your event on the timeline, just like Solo or Pass & Play.
Results are shared. Each placement is broadcast to all connected devices so everyone sees the outcome.
Disconnections are handled. If a device drops off the network, the game pauses until it reconnects.

Network Play vs. Pass & Play

	Pass & Play	Network Play
Devices	1 (shared)	1 per team
How teams play	Take turns, pass the device	Each team on their own device
Connection	None (fully offline)	Same WiFi (no internet needed)
Best for	Families, travel, quick setup	Parties, competitive groups, larger gatherings

Troubleshooting

"Can't find host" — Make sure both devices are on the exact same WiFi network (not one on WiFi and one on cellular). Try toggling WiFi off and on.
Slow connection — Network Play uses local WiFi, so distance from the router matters. Stay in the same room for best results.
Device disconnected mid-game — The game pauses. Reconnect to WiFi and the game should resume. If the device can't reconnect, the game continues without that team.

More Guides

How to Play Sorting History — the core timeline game
How to Play the Daily Challenge — daily 4-event puzzle
How to Play History Pinpoint — guess the exact year
How to Play Solo — single-player setup
How to Play Pass & Play — one device, multiple teams
Tips, Strategy, and Scoring

Ready to Play Together?

Sorting History launches April 2026 with Network Play, 12 categories, and a free tier. Be the first to know.

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