How to Fix Sons of the Forest Stuck on Starting Game Server Issues

How to Fix Sons of the Forest Stuck on Starting Game Server Issues

How to Fix Sons of the Forest Stuck on Starting Game Server Issues

How to Fix Sons of the Forest Stuck on Starting Game Server Issues

Sons of the Forest, the sequel to the popular survival horror game The Forest, is an exhilarating experience, especially when it comes to multiplayer gameplay. However, many players have encountered frustrating issues, particularly when attempting to start a game server. If you find yourself stuck on the “Starting Game Server” screen, don’t worry! This article will guide you through some effective troubleshooting steps to get you and your friends back into the action in no time.

Step 1: Check Your Internet Connection

The first step in resolving any online gaming issue involves checking your internet connection. A stable and robust connection is crucial for hosting and joining game servers. Here’s how to ensure your internet is functioning correctly:

  1. Run a Speed Test: Use free tools like Speedtest to check your connection speed. If your download and upload speeds are significantly less than what you pay for, it might be time to restart your router or contact your ISP.

  2. Wired Connection: If you are currently using Wi-Fi, consider switching to a wired connection. This will provide a more stable internet connection, crucial for hosting or joining game servers.

  3. Restart Your Router: Unplug your router, wait for about 10-15 seconds, and then plug it back in. Once rebooted, reconnect your devices and try launching the game again.

Step 2: Server Status Check

Sometimes, the server may be down due to maintenance or technical difficulties. To check if the Sons of the Forest servers are running smoothly:

  1. Visit Official Channels: Check the game’s official website, social media channels, or gaming forums for any announcements regarding server downtime.

  2. Online Status Check: Websites like DownDetector can provide real-time updates on server issues reported by players.

If it turns out that the servers are experiencing issues, you’ll have to wait until the developers resolve these problems.

Step 3: Restart Game and Verify Game Files

If your internet connection is stable and the servers are up, but you are still experiencing issues, try restarting the game and verifying its files:

  1. Close the Game Completely: Exit Sons of the Forest and ensure that it is not running in the background.

  2. Verify Game Files: If you’re playing on Steam, go to your Library, right-click on Sons of the Forest, select Properties, then click on Local Files and choose “Verify Integrity of Game Files.” This process will check for any corrupted or missing files and replace them if necessary.

  3. Restart Your Computer: Occasionally, a simple reboot can fix numerous issues. Restart your PC and try launching the game again.

Step 4: Adjust Firewall and Antivirus Settings

Sometimes, your firewall or antivirus settings may interfere with the game’s connection to the server. Here’s how to ensure that Sons of the Forest have the required permissions:

  1. Add Exceptions: Go to your firewall settings and add Sons of the Forest as an exception. Similarly, do this with your antivirus software to allow the game full access.

  2. Disable Temporarily: As a temporary test, you might also consider disabling your firewall or antivirus software to see if this resolves the issue. If it does, ensure to re-enable it afterward and investigate how to add exceptions for the game specifically.

Step 5: Adjust Router Settings

If you still encounter issues, it may be a good idea to tweak some settings on your router:

  1. Port Forwarding: Sons of the Forest may require certain ports to be open for a smoother server connection. Access your router settings and enable port forwarding for the following ports typically used by the game: UDP 27000-27015, UDP 30000-30001.

  2. UPnP: Ensure that Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) is enabled on your router settings to allow automatic configuration of the networked devices.

Conclusion

While facing connectivity issues when trying to start your game server in Sons of the Forest can be frustrating, following these troubleshooting steps can help you identify and resolve the problem. Always remember to start with the basics—checking your internet connection and server status—before delving into more technical adjustments.

In the end, if the problem persists despite following these steps, consider reaching out to the community through forums or support channels. Often, other players may have experienced similar issues and can offer insights or solutions that have worked for them. Happy gaming!