If ARC Raiders suddenly blocks you with an “Outdated Game Client” message, you’re dealing with a version mismatch. The game client installed on your device doesn’t match what the servers expect. This often happens right as a new patch or hotfix goes live, during staggered rollouts, or if a tiny server-side update ships while you’re already in a session.
Why you’re seeing “Outdated Game Client”
The error appears when the game’s version on your console or PC is older than the version the servers require. Common triggers include:
- A new patch or hotfix just went live and your device hasn’t pulled it yet.
- You stayed in-game while a background update deployed, pushing your session out of sync.
- Rollout timing differences across platforms. One platform might receive the update later, temporarily locking players out until it lands.
In many cases, this resolves on its own once the update finishes rolling out or after a simple restart that forces the client to fetch the latest patch. Occasionally, the message can still appear even when you’ve updated—typically a sign of a server-side issue or propagation lag that needs a backend fix.
Fix the ARC Raiders “Outdated Game Client” error
Start by forcing an update, then verify files (PC) if needed. Use the exact steps below for your platform.
| Platform | Force the update | Verify/repair game files |
|---|---|---|
| Steam (PC) and Steam Deck | In your Library, select ARC Raiders, then open Properties and check for updates (restarting Steam can help trigger downloads). | Properties → Installed Files → Verify Integrity of Game Files. This will fetch any missing or corrupted files and pull the newest build. |
| PlayStation 5 | Highlight ARC Raiders on your dashboard, press Options, then choose Check for Update. | Not applicable. If issues persist after updating, fully restart the console. As a last resort, reinstall. |
| Xbox Series X|S | Open Manage game and add-ons for ARC Raiders, then select the Updates tab. | Not applicable. If issues persist after updating, fully restart the console. As a last resort, reinstall. |
Tip: Fully quit the game before checking for updates. If a hotfix landed while you were playing, a simple relaunch often pulls it in.
If the update isn’t available on your platform yet
Sometimes an update appears on one platform before others. If you don’t see a patch where you play, the update may still be rolling out. In that window, you won’t be able to matchmake with players who already updated. Keep checking the update menu periodically; once the patch is live for your platform, installing it should clear the error.
When everything looks current but the error won’t clear
If you’ve installed the latest patch and still see “Outdated Game Client,” you’re likely bumping into server-side timing or a brief backend issue.
- Restart the game and your system or launcher to force a fresh handshake with the servers.
- On Steam/Steam Deck, run a file verification again to ensure no files are missing after the patch.
- Try again after a short wait. As servers finish syncing versions for all regions and platforms, the error usually disappears.
- Reinstall only as a last resort. It’s a big download, but it guarantees a clean, current build.
Note: Players on different platforms may both be fully updated and still see the error during rollout. That points to a server alignment issue rather than something on your device.
Playing with friends without hitting the version wall
Everyone in your squad must be on the same game version. If someone updates ahead of the rest, party up only after each player has installed the new patch. If your platform’s update isn’t available yet, there’s no client-side workaround—wait until the rollout hits your store and install it before regrouping.
Quick checklist
- Close ARC Raiders completely, then relaunch to pick up any hotfix.
- Manually check for an update on your platform.
- On Steam/Steam Deck: verify game files to fetch missing data.
- If your platform shows no update while others have it, wait for the rollout to reach you.
- If fully updated but still blocked, restart your device and try again later; reinstall only if nothing else works.
The “Outdated Game Client” message is frustrating because it often shows up right when you want to play with a squad. The good news: it’s usually temporary. Force an update, verify on PC if needed, and give the rollout a little time to settle. Once your client version matches the servers, you’ll be back in the Rust Belt.
