Server Sleeping Configuration Guide
Sleep is a core mechanic in single-player Project Zomboid, effectively managing fatigue and skipping the long nights. In multiplayer, however, it requires careful configuration and coordination.
Core Settings
There are two primary settings in your servertest.ini (or equivalent config file) that control sleep behavior:
| Setting Name | Recommended | Description |
|---|---|---|
SleepAllowed |
true | Allows players to click "Sleep" on beds. If false, the sleep action is disabled entirely. |
SleepNeeded |
false (usually) | If true, players will get the "Tired" moodle and suffer stat penalties if they don't sleep. If false, fatigue is disabled. |
Configuration Strategies
1. No Sleep (Arcade Style)
SleepAllowed=falseSleepNeeded=false
Best for public servers where coordinating sleep is impossible. Players never get tired, and nights must be played through.
2. Optional Sleep (Co-op/Small Group)
SleepAllowed=trueSleepNeeded=false
Players can sleep if they want to pass time, but aren't forced to. Time will only speed up if ALL players on the server are sleeping simultaneously.
3. Hardcore Simulation
SleepAllowed=trueSleepNeeded=true
Players must sleep to avoid fatigue penalties. This is very difficult in large servers because if one person stays awake, time does not speed up, forcing the sleeping players to stare at a black screen for a real-time hour.
How Multiplayer Sleep Works
Unlike single-player, time does not instantly skip when you hit the pillow. The mechanics are:
- Initiation: Player A goes to sleep. Their screen goes black, and they see a "Waiting for other players..." message.
- Waiting: If Player B is still awake, time continues at normal speed. Player A's character rests, reducing fatigue slowly.
- Fast Forward: Once Player B also goes to sleep (so 100% of online players are sleeping), the server clock accelerates rapidly to skip the night.
- Waking Up: If any player wakes up or moves, the clock reverts to normal speed immediately.
Troubleshooting & Tips
"I can't sleep"
- Check Settings: Ensure
SleepAllowed=true. - Check Pain/Panic: High pain or panic prevents sleep. Take painkillers or beta blockers.
- Check Time: You cannot sleep if you aren't tired enough (unless changed in Sandbox settings).
"Time isn't speeding up"
- Check the player list (`ESC` -> `Players`). Everyone online must be sleeping.
- If you have admin powers, you can kick the AFK player who is holding up the server.
Nightmare Mechanics
Even in multiplayer, sleep events occur:
- Nightmares: Random chance to wake up in panic.
- Zombie Intrusion: If your base isn't secure, zombies can attack you while you sleep. You will wake up if they bang on doors/windows near you, but you are vulnerable.