As players delve into the expansive and beautifully crafted world of FromSoftware’s “Elden Ring,” many find themselves wanting to experience its challenges with friends. However, the multiplayer functionality in the game can sometimes be finicky, leading to frustrating scenarios where players are unable to connect or engage in co-op play. In this article, we’ll explore common issues players face when trying to use the multiplayer features in Elden Ring, provide potential solutions, and discuss how to make the most of your multiplayer experience.
Understanding Elden Ring’s Multiplayer Mechanics
Before diving into the solutions for multiplayer connectivity problems, it’s essential to grasp exactly how the multiplayer system in Elden Ring operates. The game allows players to summon friends into their world or join others for cooperative interactions and boss battles. Understanding these mechanics can shed light on potential issues.
Summoning Friends and Co-op Play
In Elden Ring, players can summon others by using Fingerslayer’s Cry and items like Golden Seed to enhance cooperative gameplay. Once properly set up, players can engage in various activities, such as taking down formidable foes together or exploring the vast landscapes of the Lands Between.
Drop-in and Drop-out Functionality
One of the appealing features of Elden Ring’s multiplayer is its drop-in/drop-out capability. This means players can seamlessly join others’ games or allow their friends to enter their own game, making exploration and strategizing against bosses a collaborative experience.
Common Issues With Multiplayer Connectivity
Even with its innovative systems, many players find the multiplayer aspect frustrating due to various connectivity problems. The following are common issues that can result in players experiencing trouble when trying to engage in multiplayer.
Connection Errors
One of the most frequent issues players encounter is connection errors. This can manifest in several ways, such as being unable to join a friend’s game or experiencing lag during cooperative play. Connection problems can often be traced back to network issues or game settings.
Player Summoning Restrictions
Certain restrictions may prevent players from summoning others into their game, including:
- Level Differences: Significant level gaps between players can hinder any summoning attempts.
- Game Progression: Only players who have reached certain points in the game can summon others.
Server Downtime
Another issue players may face is server downtime. Server issues can arise due to maintenance, resulting in temporary unavailability of multiplayer features. Developers may also make updates that require brief downtime, impacting your game’s multiplayer functionality.
Troubleshooting Multiplayer Issues in Elden Ring
If you’re having trouble connecting with others in Elden Ring, fret not! There are several methods to troubleshoot and resolve common multiplayer issues.
Checking Game Updates
The first and foremost step to troubleshoot multiplayer problems is to ensure that your game is updated to the latest version. Patch notes often include fixes for multiplayer issues, and running an outdated version of the game can cause connectivity problems.
Network Connection Is Key
Your internet connection plays a critical role in your ability to engage in multiplayer. Here are a few things you can do to ensure a stable connection:
- Check Your Internet Speed: Use online tools to check your speed; slow connections can result in lag or disconnections.
- Use Wired Connections: If possible, connect your console or PC directly to the router using an Ethernet cable for a more stable connection.
Adjusting Network Settings
Sometimes, adjusting your router settings can improve connectivity:
- Open NAT Type: Make sure your NAT type is set to open, as strict NAT types can block multiplayer functionality.
- Port Forwarding: Set up port forwarding for the game to ensure unobstructed communication.
Check Firewall and Antivirus Settings
Firewalls and antivirus software can sometimes interfere with your connection to game servers. Ensure that Elden Ring has the necessary permissions to communicate over the internet. You might need to:
- Whitelist the Game: Add Elden Ring to the exceptions list in your firewall and antivirus programs.
- Disable Temporarily: For troubleshooting, consider temporarily disabling your firewall or antivirus to see if they are the root cause. Remember to enable them afterward for your security.
Creating a Play Session with Friends
Sometimes, it’s a matter of how you and your friends are trying to connect. To improve your chances of connecting:
- Same Game Version: Ensure that everyone is using the same version of the game; minor differences can cause issues.
- Consult Game Guides: Refer to online guides if necessary to ensure that you’re following the proper steps for summoning.
Engaging in Multiplayer: Tips for a Successful Experience
Once you’ve successfully connected with friends in co-op mode, having a strategy can help ensure a smooth experience. Here are some tips to make the most of Elden Ring’s multiplayer:
Communication Is Crucial
One of the key aspects of a successful multiplayer experience is effective communication among players. Ensure that you are discussing strategies, boss mechanics, and plans in advance.
Use Voice Chat
While the game does allow for text-based communication via emotes and messages, using voice chat can significantly enhance coordination during challenging encounters.
Customization and Preparation
Before diving into multiplayer sessions, consider the following:
- Level Matching: If possible, level your character appropriately to ensure you’re on the same capabilities as your friends.
- Prepare Buffs and Items: Stock up on healing items, buffs, and other consumables that can provide an edge during tough fights.
Experimenting with Builds
Different builds can drastically affect how multiplayer strategies play out. Encourage your team to be experimental with their character builds, leading to varied and engaging gameplay.
Synergy Among Characters
Sometimes having a balanced team is more effective than having four players with the same strengths. Discuss combinations that can lead to synergy, like having tanks, damage dealers, and support roles.
When All Else Fails: Reinstalling the Game
If you’ve tried everything to no avail and find that multiplayer still isn’t functioning as it should, one last resort is to consider reinstalling the game. This step can address any underlying issues that might be difficult to diagnose.
Backing Up Your Saves
Before reinstalling, don’t forget to back up your saved data to avoid losing progress. Use cloud save options, if available, or transfer files manually.
The Final Word
Multiplayer gaming in Elden Ring can be incredibly rewarding and enhances the game’s vast and immersive experience. While encountering issues can be frustrating, understanding the mechanics, troubleshooting effectively, and preparing adequately can lead to significant improvement. Whether teaming up with friends to conquer a challenging boss or simply exploring the stunning landscapes together, the camaraderie of multiplayer can truly enrich your gameplay.
As you prepare to embark on your next adventure in Elden Ring, remember that support is always out there. Engage with the gaming community, share your experiences, and don’t hesitate to explore potential solutions to keep the multiplayer experience alive. With a little patience and the right approach, you’ll soon be experiencing the thrilling world of Elden Ring alongside your friends. Happy gaming!
What are the common reasons for Elden Ring multiplayer issues?
The most common reasons for multiplayer issues in Elden Ring include server problems, network connectivity issues, and game version mismatches. Players might experience difficulty connecting to others due to high server loads or temporary outages on the game’s servers, which can happen during peak hours or following major updates. Additionally, issues with the player’s own internet connection or firewall settings can interfere with the ability to join or host games.
Another reason could be discrepancies in game versions. If one player has not updated their game to the latest patch, they may be unable to connect to others who have. Always make sure that the game is updated to the latest version to ensure compatibility with friends and other players for a seamless multiplayer experience.
How can I fix my internet connection for better multiplayer performance?
To improve your internet connection, start by performing a speed test to determine your current connection quality. This will help you identify if your internet speed is sufficient for online gaming. If your speed is lower than expected, consider resetting your router or modem, and check for any background applications that may be using bandwidth. Additionally, connecting your gaming device directly via Ethernet can provide a more stable connection than Wi-Fi.
If problems persist, consider contacting your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to discuss the issues you are facing. They may assist you in resolving connectivity problems or recommend plan upgrades for better performance. It’s also advisable to avoid gaming during peak hours when internet speeds may be slow due to high usage in your area.
What should I do if I receive an error message while trying to connect?
If you encounter an error message when trying to connect to Elden Ring multiplayer, take note of the specific error code, as this can give clues about the underlying issue. A common first step is to restart your game and attempt to reconnect. Sometimes, simply reinitiating the connection can resolve minor glitches affecting multiplayer functionality.
If the problem continues, visit the official Elden Ring support website or community forums for solutions pertaining to the specific error code. Players often share their experiences and remedies that can help in troubleshooting various error messages, and updates from the developers could also provide insight into ongoing issues with the servers.
Does firewall or antivirus settings affect Elden Ring multiplayer?
Yes, firewall and antivirus settings can significantly impact your ability to connect with other players in Elden Ring. Security software might mistakenly classify the game’s online features as suspicious activity, blocking necessary connections required for multiplayer. To resolve this, check your firewall settings and make sure that Elden Ring is allowed through both Windows Firewall and any third-party security software you may be using.
Adjust the settings to permit the game’s executable to communicate openly with the internet. It might also be helpful to temporarily disable your antivirus software to see if that resolves the issue, but remember to enable it again afterward to protect your system. Always be cautious when making exceptions in security software settings to avoid risking your computer’s security.
How do I check if Elden Ring servers are down?
To check if Elden Ring servers are down, you can visit official social media accounts or community forums for real-time updates. Developers often post on platforms like Twitter about server maintenance schedules or outages, allowing players to stay informed about current server status. Engaging with the gaming community on Reddit or dedicated forums can also provide insight, as players frequently share their experiences regarding connectivity issues.
Additionally, websites like Downdetector can give a broader view of whether other players are experiencing similar problems. If there are widespread reports of server issues, it’s a good indication that the problem lies with the game servers and not your individual connection. Wait for the developers to resolve these issues, and check back periodically for updates.
What should I do if I can’t find my friends in multiplayer?
If you’re having trouble finding friends in Elden Ring multiplayer, start by ensuring that you and your friends are playing on the same platform and version of the game. Different platforms, such as PlayStation, Xbox, and PC, do not allow cross-play, so confirm that everyone is on the same system before attempting to connect. Synchronizing your game updates is essential, as mismatched versions can prevent you from seeing your friends.
Once you’ve verified these details, use the game’s summoning mechanics properly. Make sure to follow the correct steps to summon your friends, utilizing items like the Tarnished’s Furled Finger or the White Sign Soapstone. Ensure that you are in the same area of the game or in compatible locations, as this can affect summon visibility. If problems persist, double-check your network settings and consult community help for further troubleshooting.