Make sure you try and connect to one of the GamesNET server pools, preferably one that is closest to you:
irc.us.gamesnet.net (North America)
west.us.gamesnet.net (Western USA)
east.us.gamesnet.net (Eastern USA)
irc.eu.gamesnet.net (Europe)
irc.ca.gamesnet.net (Canada)
This is because there could be a problem with the server you're trying to connect to. If you can connect to other servers then it must be a problem with GamesNET. Alternatively, try any of
these individual servers.
G'luck.
Regards,