StarRupture Multiplayer Guide: Co-op Factory Survival
Master the StarRupture multiplayer experience with comprehensive guides on hosting, joining, team coordination, and SaveSync host migration. Build efficient factories and survive alien threats together with up to 3 friends in this unique factory-survival hybrid.
🎮 Multiplayer Overview
StarRupture supports 4-player cooperative multiplayer with persistent worlds, shared progression, and SaveSync technology for seamless host migration. Perfect for small groups who enjoy both factory automation and survival challenges.
Multiplayer Setup Methods
Option 1: Dedicated Server (Recommended)
🌐 24/7 Availability
Persistent world runs continuously, allowing players to join anytime without host being online.
⚡ Better Performance
Offloads processing to dedicated hardware, reducing lag during factory operations and combat.
🔒 SaveSync Integration
Automatic save management with backup systems and easy host migration capabilities.
Option 2: Listen Server (Host & Play)
💻 Simple Setup
Host plays and runs server simultaneously. Easy for quick sessions with friends.
📡 Port Forwarding
Requires opening port 27015 UDP on host's router for friends to connect.
⚖️ Performance Trade-off
Host's computer handles both gameplay and server duties, may cause lag with complex factories.
Joining a StarRupture Server
Direct Connect Method
- Launch StarRupture and select "Multiplayer" from main menu
- Click "Join Game" or "Direct Connect" option
- Enter the server's IP address (e.g., 123.456.789.012)
- If using non-standard port, add :portnumber (e.g., :27016)
- Click "Connect" and wait for world loading
Steam Server Browser
- In Steam client, go to View → Servers (or Steam → Settings → In-Game → Server Browser)
- Set Game filter to "StarRupture"
- Browse available servers or add favorite server using IP:port
- Double-click server to join (will launch StarRupture if not already running)
LAN Connection
Note: For local network play, ensure all players are on same network subnet. Server should appear automatically in LAN tab.
SaveSync Host Migration System
SaveSync is StarRupture's innovative technology that allows seamless transfer of world ownership between players without losing progress.
How SaveSync Works
| Step | Process | Player Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Save Export | Current host exports world save to cloud or local file | Host: Open menu → SaveSync → Export Save |
| 2. Save Transfer | Save file shared with new host via Steam Cloud or file transfer | Share file/cloud link with new host |
| 3. Save Import | New host imports save file into their game | New host: SaveSync → Import Save |
| 4. Server Launch | New host starts server with imported world | New host: Host Game → Use Imported World |
| 5. Player Reconnect | All players reconnect to new host's server | Players: Join new host's game |
SaveSync Best Practices
- Regular Exports: Export saves after major milestones or factory expansions
- Cloud Backup: Use Steam Cloud for automatic save synchronization
- Version Control: Keep multiple save versions in case of corruption
- Communication: Coordinate host migration during low-activity periods
Team Coordination & Role Specialization
Recommended Team Roles
🏗️ Factory Architect
Designs production layouts, optimizes automation, manages resource flow between factories.
⚙️ Production Manager
Oversees factory operations, maintains equipment, manages workforce allocation.
🛡️ Security Specialist
Handles base defense, alien threat management, exploration security, and combat operations.
🌿 Resource Scout
Explores alien world, locates resource nodes, maps dangerous areas, and gathers exotic materials.
Communication Strategies
| Tool | Best For | Setup Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| In-Game Voice | Basic communication, proximity chat | Easy (built-in) |
| Discord/Teamspeak | Reliable voice, separate channels, screen sharing | Easy |
| Steam Chat | Quick text messages, invites, overlay | Easy |
| Shared Maps/Notes | Factory planning, resource tracking, task lists | Medium |
Shared Base & Factory Management
Building Permissions System
👑 Host Permissions
Full control: Building, demolition, item spawning, world settings, player management.
👥 Co-op Permissions
Standard building: Construct, modify, use factories, access shared storage.
🔒 Visitor Permissions
Limited access: Use existing facilities, but cannot modify structures or take key items.
Shared Resource Management
- Central Storage: Designate specific containers for common resources
- Labeling System: Use signs or color-coding for different material types
- Resource Quotas: Establish fair usage rules for rare materials
- Production Goals: Set collective targets for factory output
Multiplayer-Specific Challenges & Solutions
Common Multiplayer Issues
🌐 Connection Problems
Verify port forwarding, check firewall settings, ensure correct IP address, test network connectivity.
⚡ Performance Lag
Reduce factory complexity, limit active machines, optimize network settings, upgrade host hardware.
🔄 Save Sync Errors
Verify file integrity, check cloud sync status, use manual backup before migration, coordinate timing.
👥 Team Coordination Issues
Establish clear roles, use communication tools, set shared goals, implement regular check-ins.
Conflict Resolution Strategies
| Issue | Prevention | Resolution |
|---|---|---|
| Resource Hoarding | Shared storage rules, resource quotas | Resource redistribution, production planning |
| Building Conflicts | Zoning system, planning sessions | Demolition/rebuild, compromise designs |
| Play Style Differences | Role specialization, scheduled activities | Separate projects, alternating focus |
| Schedule Conflicts | Regular session times, async activities | SaveSync rotation, catch-up sessions |
Advanced Multiplayer Features
Cross-Platform Compatibility
💻 PC Platforms
Full compatibility between Steam, Epic Games Store, and direct purchase versions.
📱 Cloud Gaming
Experimental support for GeForce Now, Steam Remote Play Together.
🔀 Mod Compatibility
Shared mod requirements: All players must have same mods installed and enabled.
Streaming & Content Creation
- Spectator Mode: Observe factory operations without joining game
- Camera Controls: Free camera for cinematic shots of factory complexes
- UI Customization: Hide HUD elements for cleaner streaming overlay
- Replay System: Record and playback factory construction timelines
Seasonal & Event Multiplayer
Holiday Events
| Event | Special Features | Multiplayer Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Winter Festival | Snowy biomes, holiday decorations, gift exchange | Co-op gift hunting, shared decoration projects |
| Alien Migration | Increased alien activity, rare spawns, migration patterns | Coordinated defense, shared hunting parties |
| Factory Competition | Production challenges, efficiency rankings, rewards | Team vs team competitions, shared goals |
Security & Server Administration
Player Management Tools
- Whitelist System: Control who can join your server
- Ban Management: Temporary/permanent bans for problematic players
- Admin Commands: In-game tools for server moderation
- Activity Logs: Track player actions and server events
Grief Prevention
Important: Implement regular backups, use building permission tiers, and establish server rules to prevent destructive behavior.
Optimizing Multiplayer Experience
Session Planning
| Session Type | Duration | Focus Areas | Preparation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quick Build | 1-2 hours | Specific factory section, resource gathering | Pre-gathered materials, clear blueprints |
| Exploration Run | 2-3 hours | New biome discovery, resource scouting | Combat gear, transportation, mapping tools |
| Factory Overhaul | 3-4+ hours | Major redesign, optimization, expansion | Planning session, role assignments, backup saves |
Performance Optimization
- Pre-session Restart: Restart server before major multiplayer sessions
- Factory Pausing: Temporarily idle non-essential production during peak player activity
- Chunk Management: Limit active factory areas to reduce server load
- Network Prioritization: QoS settings to prioritize StarRupture traffic
Pro Tip: Start with small, focused multiplayer sessions to establish team dynamics before attempting massive factory projects. Use SaveSync to rotate hosting duties and give everyone experience with server management.