Project Zomboid enthusiasts, rejoice! The highly anticipated Build 42 Unstable is now live and ready for play! However, bear in mind that this version is a work in progress, aimed at gathering player feedback to enhance the overall gaming experience. Several key features, including multiplayer gameplay, are temporarily disabled but will be re-enabled soon.
Build 41 saves and mods are not compatible with Build 42, so prepare accordingly. Expect some bugs, annoyances, and potential game balance issues, particularly in zombie distribution and combat mechanics. Your saves may break after future updates, so proceed with caution.
The development team at Zomboid.net understands the high expectations surrounding the first unstable release and is dedicated to addressing issues promptly. Your understanding and constructive feedback are invaluable as they continue to refine the game.
How to Access the Unstable Branch?
To access the Unstable branch, simply right-click on Project Zomboid in your Steam library, go to "Properties," navigate to the betas tab, and select the "Unstable" branch from the dropdown menu.
Reporting Bugs
If you encounter any bugs, check out the bug reporting guide before posting on the forums. Avoid posting on Discord or other platforms to ensure your reports are received.
What's New and What's Coming?
While Mac users may experience a delay in receiving the unstable 42 update, the team is actively working on resolving compatibility issues. Additionally, SteamDeck/controller support is still a work in progress and not recommended for play at this time.
Multiplayer functionality will be enabled during the Unstable beta phase, with plans to extend access to GOG users soon. Stay tuned for updates!
Improvements in crafting and building UIs, ingredients tuning, XP gain adjustments, enhanced icons and tooltips, and collision issue fixes are among the key focus areas. Your feedback on these aspects will help prioritize upcoming patches.
During the Unstable phase, the team will emphasize hunting mechanics, enhancing the realism and immersion of tracking wildlife in the game. Expect significant updates to animal behavior and interactions.
Current Known Issues
Ballistics System: Addressing aiming issues with crawlers and stairs, along with a rare game crash during M16 usage, are top priorities for the team.
Crafting: Known issues include search bar inconsistencies, recipe inaccuracies, and peculiar battery behavior.
Build Menu: Players may encounter challenges with new constructions and movable objects, which are being actively worked on.
GrappleTech: Various animation and clipping issues are being improved, particularly related to corpse handling and dragging mechanics.
General: Several general issues, such as missing models and icons, pathfinding bugs, UI enhancements, and balancing tweaks, are on the team's radar for future updates.