PayDay 2 Error Failed Joining Game: How to Fix It

PayDay 2, developed by Overkill Software, is a popular cooperative first-person shooter game that puts players in the shoes of professional criminals performing various heists.

However, PayDay 2 is not immune to technical issues that can disrupt the seamless experience of joining games. One such issue that players frequently encounter is the Failed joining game error.

In this guide, we will delve into the possible causes behind the error and provide practical troubleshooting steps to help you fix it.

Why can’t my friend join me on PayDay 2?

The Failed joining game error in Payday 2 can be caused by several factors, ranging from network issues to software conflicts; some of the common causes that can trigger this error:

• Network connectivity problems – If your internet connection is weak, you are experiencing frequent drops, or issues with your router, it can prevent you from successfully joining the game.
• Game version mismatch – Payday 2 is regularly updated with patches and fixes, and if you and the host of the game you’re trying to join have different versions of the game, it can result in an error.
• Server outage – The game utilizes Steam’s infrastructure for its multiplayer functionality. If Steam’s servers are experiencing technical difficulties or maintenance, it can disrupt the game’s connectivity.
• Mods or custom content – If you have installed mods or custom content in your Payday 2 game, it’s possible that they might conflict with the host’s game or cause compatibility issues, hence the error.
• Firewall or antivirus restrictions – Sometimes, your antivirus software can interfere with the game’s connection and block the necessary ports or protocols to establish a successful connection.

Now that you know the causes of the issue, let us check out the solutions.

How can I fix failed joining game error on PayDay2?

Before engaging in advanced troubleshooting steps, you should consider performing the following checks:

• Quit the game and restart your computer.
• Power cycle the Wi-Fi router and ensure that your internet connection is working fine.
• Turn off the VPN (if applicable)
• Close the background tasks and processes.
• Check the PayDay server status.

Once you are through, move to the detailed steps to fix the problem.

1. Run the game as an administrator

1. Go to the game directory; you can probably find it under C:\Program Files
2. Right-click the app and select Properties.
3. Go to Compatibility, and place a checkmark next to Run this program as an administrator.
4. Click Apply, then OK to confirm the changes.

2. Verify the game is up to date

1. Press the Windows key, type steam, and click Open.
2. On the Steam client, go to Library.
3. Locate & right-click the PayDay2 app and choose Properties.
4. Go to the Updates tab and select Always keep this game updated.
5. Now restart Steam to check if the issue persists.

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3. Verify the integrity of game files

1. Press the Windows key, type steam, and click Open.
2. On the Steam client, go to Library.
3. Right-click PayDay2 from the installed games list and choose Properties.
4. Go to Local Files and click Verify the integrity of game files.
5. The process may take some time; once completed, restart your PC.

Verifying the game files can help you repair & recover the missing files of the game and is a common solution for issues like Nebula Data error on PayDay 3: Failed To Fetch Config Data.

4. Use the Google DNS server

1. Press the Windows key, type control panel, and click Open.
2. Select Category as View by and click Network & Internet.
3. Click Network and Sharing Center.
4. Now click the Change adapter settings link.
5. Right-click the active connection and select Properties.
6. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IP) and click Properties.
7. Place a checkmark next to Use the following DNS server addresses.
8. Now for the Preferred DNS server, type 8.8.8.8, and for the Alternate DNS server, type 8.8.4.4
9. Click OK.
10. Then again, click OK.

5. Add the game to your Windows Firewall

1. Press the Windows key, type control panel, and click Open.
2. Select Category as View by and click System & Security.
3. Click Windows Defender Firewall.
4. On the left pane, click Allow an app or a feature through Windows Firewall.
5. Check for PayDay 2 from the list of programs and apps that are allowed by the firewall. If available, ensure Public and Private are selected.
6. If you can’t find the game, click Change Settings, then click Allow another app.
7. Click Browse and go to the game directory, then choose the app to be added.
8. Click Add, then click OK. Make sure Public and Private are selected.
9. Click OK to close the Allowed apps window.

So, these are the methods you can use to fix the Failed Joining Game error in PayDay2. If nothing worked for you, we suggest you contact PayDay 2 customer support.

If you are experiencing other issues related to this game, like PayDay 2 crashing on Startup or not launching, we advise you to check out this solution guide.

Please feel free to give us any information, tips, and your experience with the subject in the comments section below.