Are you running into the “Outdated Game Client” error in Arc Raiders? This issue can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to queue up with friends or jump into a match.
Here’s an expanded, in-depth guide that explains why this error occurs and all the effective methods you can use to fix it.
What Is the “Outdated Game Client” Error in Arc Raiders?
The “Outdated Game Client” message appears when your version of Arc Raiders doesn’t match the live version used by the game servers or other players. This typically happens right after a patch, hotfix, or server-side update is deployed by Embark Studios.
Because Arc Raiders is an online extraction shooter, all players in a session must be running the same build of the game. When there’s a mismatch—such as your client being one version behind—you’ll be prevented from joining sessions and will see this error.
This issue has previously occurred in Embark’s other multiplayer title, The Finals, and is common in online games that receive frequent patches.
How to Fix the “Outdated Game Client” Error in Arc Raiders
Below are the most reliable and detailed solutions for resolving this issue on Steam, Epic Games Store, console, and other supported platforms.
1. Verify Game Files
If you’re playing on Steam or the Epic Games Launcher, corrupted or missing files can prevent your game from updating correctly. Verifying your files ensures that the launcher checks every installed file and replaces any broken or outdated ones.
How to Verify Game Files on Steam
- Open Steam and go to your Library.
- Right-click Arc Raiders and select Properties.
- Navigate to Installed Files.
- Click Verify Integrity of Game Files.
Steam will scan your installation. If any files are damaged or outdated, they will be automatically repaired or replaced.
How to Verify Game Files on Epic Games
- Open the Epic Games Launcher.
- Go to the Library and locate Arc Raiders.
- Click the three-dot menu (…) under the game.
- Select Manage → Verify.
After verification is complete, restart the launcher and open the game again. This alone resolves the issue for many players.
2. Check for Pending Updates
The most common cause of this error is that the game simply hasn’t finished installing the latest patch.
- Close Arc Raiders completely.
- Restart your launcher (Steam/Epic/consoles).
- Check your Downloads or Updates section.
- If an update is visible, let it finish before launching the game.
- On consoles, also check for system updates, as some games won’t update until the system firmware is up to date.
Even a small hotfix can cause version mismatches, so always ensure you’re on the latest build.
3. Restart Your System and Network Equipment
Occasionally, launchers store incorrect update data in memory. Restarting can refresh the cached version information.
Try the following:
- Fully close the launcher (not just minimise).
- Restart your PC or console.
- Power-cycle your modem/router for 20–30 seconds.
- Relaunch the platform and check for any updates again.
A fresh restart also forces the launcher to resync with Embark’s servers.
4. Clear Download Cache (PC Launchers Only)
If updates are not appearing, the download cache may be holding outdated data.
- Open Steam Settings.
- Go to Downloads.
- Click Clear Download Cache.
- Restart Steam and log in again.
Clear Cache on Epic Games
- Quit Epic completely.
- Navigate to:
Windows:C:\Users\<YourName>\AppData\Local\EpicGamesLauncher\Saved - Delete the webcache folder.
- Restart Epic Games Launcher.
This often forces the platform to detect new patches instantly.
5. Check Arc Raiders Server Status
Sometimes the issue isn’t on your end—servers may be in maintenance mode or rolling out partial updates.
Check:
- Arc Raiders official Discord
- Embark Studios’ official X (Twitter) account
- Server status trackers (if available)
If servers are applying a patch, clients might update at different times across regions, temporarily triggering the “outdated client” message.
6. Reinstall the Game (Last Resort)
If the problem persists after trying everything above:
- Uninstall Arc Raiders.
- Restart your system.
- Reinstall the game fresh from your platform.
This ensures that every file is rebuilt with the latest version, although it requires more time and storage.
Still Getting the Error? Contact Support
If none of the fixes work, the issue may be:
- A server-side bug
- A region-based version rollout delay
- A corrupted patch on your platform
Reach out directly to:
- Embark Studios Support
- The official Arc Raiders Discord (active dev responses)
- Their official X/Twitter account
Developers often release quick hotfixes when widespread update mismatches occur.
