Grounded, Obsidian Entertainment’s intriguing co-op survival game, has captivated gamers with its unique premise: miniaturized characters battling for survival in a backyard teeming with giant insects. However, many players have encountered frustrating issues when trying to engage in multiplayer mode on the PS5. If you’re one of those players facing difficulties, don’t worry! This comprehensive guide will explore the potential causes and solutions for why Grounded PS5 multiplayer isn’t working, ensuring you can dive back into the vibrant world of survival with friends in no time.
Understanding the Multiplayer Mode in Grounded
Before diving into troubleshooting, it’s essential to appreciate the game’s multiplayer design. Grounded allows up to four players to join forces, exploring its expansive environment, crafting, building bases, and combating formidable foes together. This cooperative play is not just about survival; it enhances the gaming experience, making it crucial for fans to resolve any multiplayer connectivity issues.
Common Reasons for Multiplayer Issues in Grounded
Experiencing multiplayer issues can stem from various sources. Here are some of the most common reasons players face challenges when trying to connect with friends in Grounded on PS5:
1. Internet Connectivity Problems
A stable and reliable internet connection is pivotal for seamless multiplayer gaming. Problems such as slow speeds, frequent disconnections, or data packet loss can significantly hamper your gaming experience.
2. PlayStation Network (PSN) Status
At times, the problem may not be on your end. PlayStation Network outages or maintenance can prevent players from connecting to online features, including multiplayer sessions in Grounded.
3. Game Updates and Bugs
Games often receive updates to improve performance and add new features. If you or your friends haven’t updated Grounded to the latest version, it could lead to compatibility issues. Furthermore, bugs can occasionally disrupt gameplay, necessitating a workaround.
4. NAT Type Issues
Your Network Address Translation (NAT) type can affect your ability to connect with other players. If your NAT type is set to restrictive, it might block online communication, leading to multiplayer problems.
Troubleshooting Multiplayer Issues on PS5
With a clear understanding of the potential causes of multiplayer issues in Grounded, let’s explore some actionable solutions to resolve these challenges.
1. Check Your Internet Connection
Begin by verifying the integrity of your internet connection. Here are a few steps to help you troubleshoot:
- Test Your Connection: Go to your PS5 settings, navigate to “Network,” and select “Test Internet Connection.” This will reveal upload and download speeds as well as the status of your connection.
- Reconnect to Wi-Fi: Sometimes, simply disconnecting and reconnecting to your Wi-Fi network can resolve minor connectivity issues.
2. Verify PSN Status
Check the current status of PlayStation Network by visiting the official PlayStation Network Service Status page. If there are ongoing outages, it might be wise to wait until service is restored before attempting to play Grounded multiplayer.
3. Ensure the Game Is Up to Date
Keeping your game updated is vital. Follow these steps:
- Update the Game: On the PS5 dashboard, select Grounded, press the “Options” button, and choose “Check for Update.” Download any available updates.
- Update System Software: Similarly, ensure your PS5 console’s system software is updated by going to “Settings” > “System” > “System Software” > “System Software Update and Settings.”
4. Adjust Your NAT Type
A restrictive NAT type can hinder your gaming experience significantly. To manage your NAT type:
To Change NAT Type on PS5:
- Go to “Settings.”
- Select “Network” and then “Settings.”
- Navigate to “View Connection Status.” Here, you’ll see your NAT type.
- If it shows NAT Type 3, you may want to set up port forwarding on your router for a better experience.
To do this, log in to your router’s interface (usually accessed through a web browser), and forward the following ports for Grounded:
| Protocol | Port Number |
|---|---|
| TCP | 3074 |
| UDP | 3074 |
This adjustment can help change your NAT type from 3 to either 1 or 2, making it easier to connect with other players.
5. Restart Your Devices
Sometimes a simple restart can do wonders. Restart both your PS5 and your router to rule out any lingering issues. This clears out any temporary glitches affecting your connection.
Advanced Troubleshooting Techniques
If the basic troubleshooting steps do not resolve the multiplayer issues, you may want to explore some advanced options.
1. Check Your Router Settings
Ensure that your router allows for online gaming. Access your router’s configuration and check for any firewall settings that may be blocking ground. Make sure you whitelist the Grounded game.
2. Use a Wired Connection
If you’re currently using Wi-Fi, consider switching to a wired connection. A stable Ethernet connection can dramatically improve your online gaming experience and connectivity stability.
3. Create a New PS5 User Profile
To rule out profile-specific issues, create a new user profile on your PS5. Log in with the new account and check if you can join multiplayer sessions. This can help determine if the issue lies with your primary account or the game itself.
4. Reinstall Grounded
As a last resort, uninstalling and then reinstalling Grounded may resolve unresolved issues or corrupted files affecting multiplayer functionality. Be sure to back up your game saves if necessary.
Enhancing Your Gaming Experience
After resolving the multiplayer connectivity issues, consider optimizing your gaming experience in Grounded:
1. Explore Game Features
Take advantage of the various game features available in Grounded. These include unique crafting options and base-building mechanics, which become even more enjoyable with friends.
2. Invite Friends Strategically
When inviting friends to your session, check their connection quality and ensure they do not have ongoing internet issues, which can affect gameplay for everyone involved.
Conclusion
Experiencing multiplayer issues in Grounded on PS5 can be frustrating, but with this guide, you’re now equipped to troubleshoot effectively. From checking your internet connection and verifying PSN status to adjusting your NAT type and exploring advanced settings, your gaming sessions with friends will soon be smooth and enjoyable.
Whether you’re gathering resources, battling monstrous insects, or building the ultimate base in a vibrant backyard setting, resolving connectivity issues is key to maximizing your enjoyment of Grounded. Keep these tips handy, and game on without the hassles of multiplayer hiccups. Happy gaming!
Why is Grounded multiplayer not working on my PS5?
The multiplayer feature in Grounded on PS5 may fail to work due to various reasons. Common issues include server outages, unstable internet connections, or outdated game versions. It’s worth checking the developer’s social media channels or official forums to see if there are any ongoing server issues that might be affecting gameplay.
Additionally, network problems can occur if your console is too far from the router, or if there are many devices connected to the same network. Make sure your Wi-Fi signal is strong and that your internet connection is stable. You might also want to run a speed test to assess your current connection values and determine if they meet the game’s requirements.
How can I troubleshoot connection issues in Grounded?
To troubleshoot connection issues in Grounded, start by restarting your PS5 and router. Power cycling both devices can often resolve temporary connectivity glitches. After rebooting, reconnect to your network and attempt to run the game again. Make sure that no other applications are consuming too much bandwidth while you’re trying to play.
If the issues persist, check for any updates for the game or your console system. Developers often release patches to resolve connectivity problems. Additionally, consider using a wired Ethernet connection if you usually play over Wi-Fi, as a wired connection tends to be more stable.
Is there a way to check the game server status?
Yes, you can check the game server status for Grounded through various official channels. The developers usually provide real-time updates on server health on their official website or social media pages. You can also visit community forums where players share information about server outages or issues they are experiencing.
In some cases, third-party websites can monitor server status as well. By checking these resources, you can determine if the issue is on your end or if a larger server problem is affecting players globally, which could help you decide whether to wait or try other fixes.
What should I do if I receive an error code while trying to play multiplayer?
If you receive an error code when trying to access multiplayer, take note of the specific code displayed. Often, these codes can indicate the root of the problem, such as a connectivity issue, server unavailability, or account-related restrictions. Look up the error code in the game’s support documentation or search forums where players discuss similar situations.
Once you identify the error, follow the recommended steps provided by the game’s support team. This might include actions like checking your internet connection, ensuring that your game is updated, or logging out and back into your account. If the problem continues, reach out to official customer support for further assistance.
Will adjusting my NAT type help with multiplayer issues?
Yes, adjusting your NAT (Network Address Translation) type can significantly improve your multiplayer experience in Grounded. NAT types categorize how your console connects to the internet and other players. Ideally, you want your NAT type to be “Type 1” (Open) or “Type 2” (Moderate), as both allow for smoother connections with other players.
To adjust your NAT type, you may need to configure your router settings, enabling features such as UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) or port forwarding for the game. This can help facilitate a better connection to the game servers and other players. Ensure that the necessary ports for Grounded are open in your router settings after making the changes.
What if all else fails and Grounded multiplayer still isn’t working?
If you’ve tried all the suggested troubleshooting tips and Grounded multiplayer is still not functioning, it may be time to reach out for expert help. Contact the game’s official support team, providing them with detailed information about your issue, the steps you’ve taken, your PS5 model, and your internet service provider. They may offer specific advice or escalate your case if necessary.
It’s also a good idea to keep an eye on community forums or groups where players discuss troubleshooting tips. Often someone else may be experiencing the same issues, and you can collectively find a solution or at least receive updates about fixes or patches being developed for Grounded.