50% of multiplayer games cannot create lobby or join existing lobby

[MrWotring]

Game Version:

• Build 4426672
• Platform Steam
• Version 101.101.33315.0

Issue:

When either creating a Multiplayer Lobby or Joining an existing Multiplayer Lobby, the game goes to the blank-parchment loading-screen and then a pop-up appears that states “Could not create game. Error: Connection Failed” or (when joining an existing lobby) “Unable to join game. Error: Unknown Error”

Environment:

Windows 10 PC connected to FIOS internet connection by ethernet. While trying to begin game, web browser connects, Discord chat and VoIP chat remains connected, and other network-connected services remain working fine.

Reproduction Steps:

1. Start Steam
2. Start AOE2:DE from Steam
3. Select Multiplayer
4. Select Create Lobby.
5. Either choose changes desired (e.g. friends only, 4 player map, EastUS servers) or go with default game/lobby settings.
6. Select Create Lobby
7. Observe the parchment-paper “blank” screen with the progress wheel at the bottom-right, followed by the mentioned error message(s).