Direct answer

Prove server and client use the same build. Then test a clean vanilla connection, read both logs at the stall, and add the save and mods back one layer at a time. A spinner alone does not identify the cause.

Do this first

  1. Confirm exact client/server versions.
  2. Restart and attempt one vanilla connection.
  3. Record where the server log stops.
  4. Test without mods on a disposable world.
  5. Restore the real world and mod set only after the clean path works.

Joining Game and Loading Map are not identical

42.20.3 fixed one cause of clients hanging on Loading Map, but a post-hotfix Joining Game stall can still be an outdated server, Workshop mismatch, world problem, or host condition. Record the exact screen and log timestamp instead of merging every spinner into one diagnosis.

Use a diagnostic ladder

Change one layer at a time so a working step proves something.

  • Client and server both on 42.20.4
  • Vanilla server
  • New disposable world
  • One client
  • One compatible mod
  • Existing Workshop set
  • Existing world

Read both sides

The client log shows what it waits for; the server log shows whether the player reached authentication, Workshop checks, world loading, or a later stage. Record timestamps and the first relevant error.

Escalate with evidence

If a fresh vanilla world hangs with matching versions, preserve logs, operating system, play mode, exact steps, and whether local hosting works. That is useful evidence for official support.

FAQ

Quick answers

Does Joining Game forever always mean mods?

No. Reports include version, server, world, and vanilla cases. Establish the clean baseline first.

Should I wipe the main server immediately?

No. Back it up and test a separate disposable world.

Evidence log

Sources checked

Official sources establish universal facts; forum and specialist sources are used for symptoms, vocabulary, and cross-checking.

Official forumUnable to Join Server: Stuck at Loading

Current Steam support-language evidence for 42.20.x dedicated servers that remain on an older build after a client update.

Official forum42.20 Multiplayer Stuck on Loading the World

Recent support-language evidence for remote clients hanging during world loading, including vanilla tests.

Official42.20.4 Stable Security Hotfix

Official 26 August security hotfix for Stable 42.20.4, beta 42.19.2, and legacy41 41.78.21, including removal of loadstring and loadstream.

Official forumBuild 42 File Does Not Match Report

Support report showing version mismatch as one reproducible cause of multiplayer file errors; replies remain community advice.