Satisfactory Multiplayer: How to Play With Friends

This guide explains how to set up and join a multiplayer session in Satisfactory, covering both the dedicated server and the simpler friend-invite method. You’ll learn what each player needs, the exact steps to get connected, and how to fix the most common connection issues.

What You’ll Need

• A copy of Satisfactory for each player (Steam or Epic Games Store).
• A stable internet connection for the host and ideally for all players.
• For the host: a reasonably powerful PC, since the host’s machine also runs the game world.
• For dedicated servers: a separate machine or a hosting service that meets the minimum specs (4+ GB RAM, 2+ cores).
• All players should be on the same game version. The game auto-updates, but check if someone has pending updates.

Step-by-Step

Method 1: Friend Invite (Simplest)

1. Launch the game on the host’s machine.
2. Select “Play Game” and either load an existing save or start a new one.
3. Once in the world, press Esc to open the pause menu.
4. Click on “Manage Session” (or the icon that looks like a person with a plus sign).
5. In the session settings, set the game to “Friends Only” or “Invite Only”.
6. Click “Invite Friends” and select the friends you want from your platform’s friend list (Steam or Epic). They’ll receive a notification.
7. Your friends accept the invite from their platform overlay or the game’s main menu.
8. Alternatively, friends can join by: from the main menu, selecting “Play Game”, then “Join Game”, and choosing your session from the list of available games.

Method 2: Dedicated Server (24/7 World)

1. Set up the server software on a separate PC or a rented server. You can download the dedicated server tool from Steam (search “Satisfactory Dedicated Server”) or use a hosting provider’s one-click install.
2. Configure the server by editing the Game.ini file in the server’s config folder. Set the server name, password (if any), and max players (up to 4).
3. Start the server and wait for it to show “Server started” in the console.
4. Find the server IP: if it’s on your local network, use the local IP (e.g., 192.168.x.x). For internet play, you’ll need the public IP and to forward ports (see Troubleshooting).
5. Join the server: in Satisfactory, go to “Play Game” > “Join Game” > “Server” tab. Enter the IP address and port (default 7777) and connect.
6. If the server has a password, enter it when prompted.

Common Mistakes

• Not being on the same game version. If one player is on an older update, they won’t see the host’s session.
• Host’s firewall blocking the connection. Windows Firewall often blocks the game’s ports by default. Allow the game through.
• Using the wrong join method. For friend invites, the host must have the session set to “Friends Only” or “Invite Only”, not “Private”.
• Dedicated server port not forwarded. Without port forwarding, players outside your local network can’t connect.
• Too many players for the host’s PC. Satisfactory is CPU-heavy; hosting 4 players on a weak PC will cause lag.

Tips

• Designate a permanent host. The world is saved on the host’s machine, so if the host leaves, the session pauses. A dedicated server avoids this.
• Use in-game voice chat or a third-party voice app for coordination.
• Turn on the “Advanced Game Settings” if you want to tweak things like enemy aggression or resource abundance for the group.
• Set a clear building plan to avoid overlapping factories. Use the in-game map and markers.
• Back up your save files regularly. They’re located in %LOCALAPPDATA%\FactoryGame\Saved\SaveGames on Windows.

Troubleshooting

Can’t see friend’s invite or session

• Make sure both of you are friends on the same platform (Steam or Epic).
• Restart the game and try again.
• Check if the host’s session is set to “Friends Only” or “Invite Only”.
• If using Epic, ensure both are on the Epic friends list, not just Steam.

Connection timeout or lost connection

• For friend invites, the host’s network may be strict. Try having the host restart the router.
• For dedicated servers, verify the IP and port are correct. The default port is 7777 (UDP).
• Check the host’s firewall: allow the game and the dedicated server through Windows Firewall.
• If the host is on a VPN, disable it temporarily.

Lag or rubber-banding

• This is usually a host-side performance issue. Close other heavy programs on the host PC.
• Reduce the game’s graphics settings, especially draw distance and shadows.
• All players should have a stable internet connection; use a wired connection if possible.

Dedicated server not showing up in the list

• Try connecting directly via IP instead of browsing.
• Make sure the server is fully started (check the console).
• If the server is on a different network, ensure port forwarding is set up correctly.

Game says “Incompatible version”

• Update the game on all clients and the server.
• If the server is modded, all clients must have the same mods installed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I play with friends if I bought the game on Epic and they bought it on Steam?

Yes, crossplay is supported. You can invite friends from either platform as long as you’re friends in the respective launcher.

How many players can play together?

The game supports up to 4 players in a single session.

Does the host need to be online for others to play?

For friend invites, yes. The world is hosted on the host’s PC, so if they quit, the session ends. A dedicated server allows the world to run 24/7.

Can I transfer my single-player save to a dedicated server?

Yes. You can upload your save file to the server’s save folder. The server will then use that world.

Do all players need the DLC or expansions?

No, Satisfactory doesn’t have paid expansions that affect multiplayer. Everyone just needs the base game.

Can I set a password for my dedicated server?

Yes, you can set a password in the server configuration file (Game.ini). Players will be prompted to enter it when joining.

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