Palworld has taken the gaming world by storm since its release in November 2022. However, many players have encountered the frustrating “Palworld Failed to Host Multiplayer Session” error when trying to play with friends. This comprehensive guide will explain the error, its causes, and provide troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue.
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What is the “Failed to Host Multiplayer Session” Error?
The “Failed to Host Multiplayer Session” error occurs when the game is unable to create or join a multiplayer session. Instead of connecting to a server and starting the multiplayer game, players receive a pop-up notification with the error message.
This prevents playing cooperatively with friends, greatly diminishing a key feature that makes Palworld so enjoyable. Thankfully, there are several ways to troubleshoot and fix the issue.
What Causes This Multiplayer Error?
There are a few common culprits behind Palworld’s multiplayer errors:
- Overloaded Servers – During peak playing times, Palworld’s servers can become overloaded with requests from the huge player base. This causes timeouts and failures when initiating multiplayer sessions.
- Connectivity Issues – Problems with the player’s own internet connection can also lead to multiplayer session errors. Slow speeds, high latency, and connection drops can interrupt the process of hosting or joining games.
- Software Bugs – As with any new, complex video game, Palworld still has some lingering software bugs causing technical problems. Fixes and patches are routinely released to address these code errors.
How to Check if Palworld Servers Are Overloaded
When troubleshooting multiplayer issues, it’s important to check if general server problems or routine maintenance could be responsible:
- Check the official Palworld server status website, which displays real-time reports on performance and identifies any current issues.
- Follow the @Palworld_EN Twitter account which frequently updates during maintenance periods and highlights expected repair timelines.
- See the Palworld X community account for user reports on outage locations and causes.
- Use the Palworld server population tracker to monitor activity levels and peak playing times.
If servers are overwhelmed due to high demand, wait a while before trying to connect again during lower traffic periods.
How to Troubleshoot and Fix “Failed to Host Multiplayer Session”
If you’ve ruled out temporary server outages, use these steps to troubleshoot connectivity issues and software bugs causing Palworld’s multiplayer error:
Restart Devices and Game Client
The first troubleshooting step is to fully reboot and restart your system:
- Restart Computer/Console – For PC, completely shut down and restart your computer. For consoles, reboot your PlayStation, Xbox or Switch system.
- Restart Palworld Game – Close the Palworld application and relaunch the game after system reboot. This clears any software state issues.
- Restart Modem/Router – Also reboot your networking equipment to refresh internet connectivity.
Restarting clears temporary glitches and re-initializes network equipment.
Check for Updates and Patches
Ensure software is updated before troubleshooting further:
- Update Operating System – On Windows PC, install the latest Windows updates. On console systems, add any new system software patches. Keeping OS versions current fixes bugs.
- Check for Palworld Patches – In the Steam or Epic Games launcher on PC, or built-in software update menu on consoles, install any available Palworld game updates which include multiplayer fixes.
- Update Network Driver – On PC, update LAN/WiFi adapter drivers. Updated network drivers fix connectivity issues caused by faulty drivers.
Game and networking software updates frequently patch multiplayer issues.
Verify Game File Integrity
Corrupted game files can sometimes impact connectivity and multiplayer features:
- Verify Integrity (PC) – In the Properties menu for Palworld in Steam or Epic Games library, use built-in tools to scan and check all game files.
- Delete and Re-Install (Console) – On Nintendo Switch, PlayStation or Xbox, delete and re-download Palworld files. This forces re-installation of clean, uncorrupted game files.
Verification scans identify and replace incorrect game files.
Contact Palworld Support
If above steps don’t resolve the problem, directly contact the Palworld support team:
- Reach out to their email at info@palworld.co with your issue
- Check their @Palworld_EN Twitter feed for new fixes and workarounds
- See the Palworld troubleshooting guide for additional help
The developers routinely release multiplayer-related hotfixes. Support staff can also provide individual help diagnose your case.
Wait and Retry Connecting
During overloaded periods, repeatedly retry joining sessions after some time.
Some users eventually connect after few attempts:
- Click retry option when “Failed to Host Multiplayer Session” pops up
- Attempt hosting again after 10-15 minutes
- Check server status sites first for any improvement
Consider scheduling game times outside of peak hours if servers remain overwhelmed. Late night and early morning typically have much lower player populations.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Error
Here are answers to some commonly asked questions:
Q: Does restarting Palworld fix the multiplayer error?
A: Restarting Palworld after rebooting your PC or console is one of the first troubleshooting steps to try. This clears out temporary glitches. But additional steps like updating software and verifying files are usually required.
Q: What happens if servers stay overloaded despite troubleshooting steps?
A: During sustained heavy traffic after new updates or a surge in players, servers may remain overwhelmed. The only option is wait and retry over time until traffic dies down. Consider alternative single player mode.
Q: Can my internet connection cause this error even with good speeds?
A: Yes, factors like latency, jitter, and intermittent drops can interfere with stable multiplayer connections. Check that your network strength is reliable in the game host’s geographic region.
Summary
Palworld’s “Failed to Host Multiplayer Session” can certainly be frustrating.
But this error can usually be resolved systematically:
- Check server status pages for temporary overload issues first
- Thoroughly reboot devices and relaunch game client to reset software state
- Install available OS, firmware, game, and network driver updates
- Verify integrity of game files or reinstall clean copies
- Directly contact developer’s support team for additional help
- Be patient and retry connections during lower activity periods
With some dedication to troubleshooting using this guide, the vibrant multiplayer world of Palworld will open up for enjoyable cooperative play!
Table Showing Peak Playing Times and Recommended Connection Retry Times
Region | Peak Playing Period | Recommended Retry Time |
Americas | 4 pm – 11 pm PT | 12 am – 8 am PT |
Europe | 4 pm – 11 pm CET | 12 am – 8 am CET |
Asia | 7 pm – 2 am CST | 5 am – 12 pm CST |