Play MineTest locally with Ubuntu

MineTest doesn't natively require Internet access, after initial setup of game files, game engines and mod-packs.

So it struck me that I ought to be able to achieve networked play between my Ubuntu laptop and a couple of Android phones, anywhere I want, without a trusted Internet connection.

On your hosting Ubuntu PC, while on regular Internet, install MineTest and (from within MineTest) ensure you have the game you want to play downloaded, such as MineGame.

In Gnome settings, select Wi-Fi. In the ... toward the upper-right, choose Turn On Wi-Fi Hotspot.... Choose some options reasonable for your situation.

From the command line, run hostname -I, to learn your new IP address.

• Start MineTest.
• Be sure Host Server is enabled.
• Host a game from the Start Game tab.

On your client device - PC, Phone or SteamDeck:

While on regular Internet, install MineTest and ensure you have the game you want to play downloaded, such as MineGame.

Now connect to the Wi-Fi hotspot you just created.

• Launch MineTest.
• Choose your game (usually MineGame).
• Select the Join Game tab.
• Ignore the (likely empty, since you're on a hotspot) list of servers in the left panel.
• In the right panel, enter the IP address returned by hostname -I earlier.
• Leave the default port, unless you changed it on the hosting PC.
• If this is your first time connecting to your new server, create a Name and Password and press Register.
• If you have played before, enter your Name and Password and press Login.

Enjoy!