A system and method for local multiplayer gaming are disclosed. According to one embodiment, a system comprises a plurality of mobile client devices including a mobile client device designated as a server device. Each mobile client device comprises a display, at least one local network interface for communication with said server device and a processor. The processor is programmed for playing a multiplayer game with other mobile client devices and rendering on said display a game situation depending on commands sent by a plurality of mobile client devices to said server device over said at least local network interface. At least one of said mobile client devices is configured for overhearing commands sent by at least one other mobile client device to said server device or another mobile client device and for rendering on its display a game situation depending on said overheard command.