Is Project Zomboid multiplayer?

Last checked: October 24, 2026

Yes. Project Zomboid has online co-op and PvP on servers, and Build 42, the current build, has multiplayer on the public branch. You can play with friends in three ways: host from the game menu, join someone else's server, or run a dedicated server that stays online.

Start a Project Zomboid server

Build 42 multiplayer: where it stands

Build 41 was the long-running multiplayer build.
Build 42 multiplayer arrived on the unstable branch in December 2025 (42.13).
On 29 July 2026, Build 42.20 went stable and multiplayer came with it.
Patches have kept coming since then (42.21 went stable in late September 2026).

Everyone on a server has to run the same build. A Build 41 player can't join a Build 42 server. In Steam you switch builds under Project Zomboid → Properties → Betas.

Three ways to play with friends

Host from the game. Main menu → Host. The server runs on your PC while you play, and it stops when you quit, so friends can only play while you're on.
Join a server. Main menu → Join, then enter the address and port, or accept a Steam invite.
Run a dedicated server. A separate server program keeps the world running whether or not you're playing. You can run it on your own PC (our how-to guide walks through it) or rent one.

There's also local split-screen on one PC with controllers.

Why can't my friend connect?

Build mismatch: check that both of you are on the same build in Properties → Betas.
Mods: the server and every player need the same mods.
Ports: a self-hosted server needs UDP 16261–16262 forwarded on your router.
Password or whitelist: check that your friend's account is allowed in.

A Build 42 server your group can always join

A Packyard Project Zomboid server is a password-protected Build 42 server for PC on Steam. It stays online when you log off and runs on the same panel and backups as our Minecraft servers. Players join a permanent address with a name and port that stays the same, and there's no port forwarding on your side. The first start takes 30 to 60 minutes because the game files download. Servers run in Seattle (US West).

Size: 5 GB is our pick for 2–5 players ($7.50/month). 4 GB is $6. That's $1.50 per GB per month, $5 minimum, in USD plus applicable taxes.
First-payment refund if something on our side doesn't work (see Refunds). Cancel any time in the panel. Available in the US and Canada (not Quebec).

Project Zomboid admin commands · How to make a Project Zomboid server · Project Zomboid hosting