Attempting to join your friend's Palworld server only to be confronted by the "incompatible version" error? This frustrating notification prevents playing together, but luckily the fix is fairly straightforward. Here's how to resolve Palworld's "the match you are trying to join is running an incompatible version of the game" issue.
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What Causes the Palworld "Incompatible Version" Error?
This problem arises when there's a mismatch between the game version installed on your machine and the version running on the multiplayer server you're attempting to join.
Palworld receives frequent updates adding content and bug fixes during its Early Access period. When the host of a server you try to join hasn't yet updated to the latest patch, while your client reflects newer files, this conflict blocks you from connecting.
Essentially your game client and the server build are out of sync, triggering the "incompatible version" error message.
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How to Fix the Palworld "Incompatible Version" Error
Fixing this requires getting your game build and the server builds back in alignment. The exact steps depend on whether it's a public server or a privately hosted game:
Public Servers
For larger public servers, unfortunately, you'll have to wait until the administrators manually update it on their end before you can join.
To check if an official server has updated yet, try joining after some time has passed since the new Palworld patches were released. As more players prompt admins to update, public servers eventually reconcile versions.
Private Servers
For privately hosted games like playing with a group of friends, you should:
- Have your friend close Palworld and install the latest patch
- Confirm you also have downloaded the newest update
- Try joining the server again
Once both you and the host update clients to the current build, the error should resolve.
Essentially all players need to get onto the same Palworld version for compatibility across multiplayer matches. Whenever an "incompatible version" pops up after patches hit, updating is necessary to play together again.
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Summary - Fixing Palworld Version Errors
- Caused by client/server version misalignment after patches
- Public servers - Wait for the admin update
- Private servers - Confirm all players are updated to the newest build
While frustrating, this error has a simple fix: just closing and updating Palworld. Maintain awareness of new patches so your crew can group up ASAP after downloads are complete!
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Look out for other Palworld Guides here:
- Palworld: PC System Requirements
- Palworld Complete Elemental Types Guide: Strengths & Weaknesses
- Palworld: All Starter Pals Explained & Our Top Pick
- Palworld Guide: How to Repair Weapons, Tools & Equipment
- Palworld: How to Catch Pals & Increase The Chance
- Do Pals Evolve in Palworld? Answering the Big Question
- Palworld Guide: How to Find Paldium Fragments in Palworld
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