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== Before Consulting the List Below - Common Solutions and Diagnostics ==
+
== 🛠️ Section I: Essential Diagnostics (Agnostic) ==
−
Whilst most problems seen here have very specific solutions, there are a few agnostic solutions that tend to work for most issues. Give these a try before proceeding to the list below.
+
Before submitting a ticket to the Official Discord, you must perform these steps to rule out local data corruption.
  
−
=== Verifying Integrity of Game Files ===
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=== 1. Integrity Validation (Steam) ===
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<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" data-expandtext="Show how-to" data-collapsetext="Hide how-to"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
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Asset corruption is the #1 cause of "Pink Textures" (missing materials) and map load crashes.
−
A large portion of crashes and gameplay bugs can be fixed by verifying the integrity of the game files through Steam. This process validates the presence of all game files on-disk, and will prompt Steam to re-acquire any file that fails validation (i.e. is missing). This is especially useful after updates or file changes, where there is a chance that files may be deleted or become corrupt.
 
  
−
To validate your game files:
+
* '''Procedure:''' Right-click '''Holdfast: Nations at War''' in Steam > '''Properties''' > '''Installed Files''' > '''Verify Integrity of Game Files'''.
 +
* '''Note:''' Steam will automatically re-acquire any file that fails the SHA check.
  
−
# Right-click on ''Holdfast: Nations at War'' in your Steam library and select 'Properties'.
+
=== 2. Error Logging & Console Access ===
−
# On the left side of the pop-up, select 'Local Files'
 
−
# At the bottom, click 'Verify Integrity of Game Files'
 
  
−
Steam will perform the validation process. If Steam reports that any files have failed to validate, these files will automatically be re-downloaded again.
+
* '''F2 Console:''' Press <code>F2</code> in-game. '''Red lines''' are fatal errors; '''Yellow lines''' are warnings.
 +
* '''Local Logs:''' Your crash data is stored at <code>%userprofile%\AppData\LocalLow\Anvil Game Studio\Holdfast NaW\Player.log</code>.
 +
* '''Critical:''' You must copy this file '''immediately''' after a crash. Relaunching the game overwrites it.
 +
 
 +
For any queries, please reach out to Tech Support in the official Holdfast Discord: [https://discord.com/invite/holdfastgame discord.gg/holdfastgame].
 +
 
 +
==🚩 Section II: Critical Known Issues (PC & Console)==
 +
 
 +
Here's a list of known issues within the game which we're already aware of. You can rest assured that we're doing our best to solve them and please do get in touch with us if you ever face any issues whilst playing the game!
 +
 
 +
<!-- KI 1 -->
 +
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
 +
Known Issue 1 - Black Screen on Launch (Audio/Music Playing)
 +
<span class="mw-customtoggle-issue1" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
 +
</div>
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<div id="mw-customcollapsible-issue1" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 +
'''Status:''' GPU Scaling & Handshake Conflict
 +
 
 +
'''Affected Platforms:''' PC, Xbox Series X|S , PS5
 +
 
 +
'''The Cause:''' This occurs when the game's internal resolution doesn't match the display's scaling parameters, causing the monitor to receive no signal while the game runs in the background.
 +
 
 +
'''The Fix PC:'''
 +
 
 +
'''NVIDIA Phase 1. NVIDIA GPU Scaling (NVIDIA App / Control Panel''')
 +
 
 +
* '''NVIDIA App Path:''' Open the '''NVIDIA App''' > '''Graphics''' tab > '''Global Settings'''. Ensure '''Image Scaling''' is '''Off'''.
 +
* '''Legacy Control Panel Path:''' Right-click Desktop > '''NVIDIA Control Panel''' > '''Adjust desktop size and position'''. Under "Select a scaling mode," choose '''No Scaling'''. Click '''Apply'''.
 +
 
 +
'''AMD Phase 1. AMD GPU Scaling (AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition)'''
 +
 
 +
* '''The Path:''' Open '''AMD Software''' > '''Gaming''' > '''Games''' > '''Holdfast: Nations At War'''.
 +
* '''The Fix:''' Under the '''Display''' section on the right, set '''Scaling Mode''' to '''Preserve Aspect Ratio'''.
 +
* '''Important:''' Ensure '''Integer Scaling''' is set to '''Disabled''', as this often causes "Out of Range" black screens on 1440p and 4K monitors in the current build.
 +
 
 +
'''Phase 2. Manual Resolution Reset (PC)'''
 +
 
 +
If the scaling fix doesn't work, you must force the game into a Windowed state to reset the engine's display handshake:
 +
 
 +
# Press <code>Win + R</code>, type <code>%localappdata%low</code>, and navigate to <code>Anvil Game Studio > Holdfast NaW</code>.
 +
# Open <code>HoldfastOptions.ini</code> with Notepad.
 +
# Find the line <code>fullscreenMode</code> and change the value to <code>1</code> (Windowed).
 +
# Save the file and relaunch the game. Once the image appears, you can change your resolution in the in-game settings and switch back to Fullscreen.
 +
 
 +
'''Phase 3. The "Alt + Enter" Force-Refresh (PC)'''
 +
 
 +
If the screen is black but you hear music, press '''Alt + Enter''' on your keyboard. This forces the Windows OS to toggle the display mode. This often "wakes up" the GPU driver and forces it to render the frame buffer correctly.
 +
 
 +
* '''The Fix Console:''' This is usually a conflict with '''VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)''' or '''120Hz Output''' handshakes.
 +
* '''Xbox:''' Settings > TV & Display Options > '''Video Modes'''. Uncheck '''Allow Variable Refresh Rate'''.
 +
* '''PS5:''' Settings > Screen and Video > '''Video Output'''. Set '''VRR''' and '''120 Hz Output''' to '''Off'''.
 +
* Launch the game; once the visuals appear, you can safely re-enable these settings in the console menu.
 +
</div></div>
 +
 
 +
<!-- KI 2 -->
 +
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
 +
Known Issue 2 - High Polling Rate Stutter (Mouse Lag)
 +
<span class="mw-customtoggle-issue2" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
 +
</div>
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<div id="mw-customcollapsible-issue2" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 +
=== High Polling Rate Stutter (Mouse Lag) ===
 +
'''Status:''' Unity Engine Constraint (Input Thread Saturation)
 +
 
 +
'''The Issue:''' Your camera "hitches" or FPS drops drastically when moving the mouse, even on high-end PCs.
 +
 
 +
'''The Cause:''' Mouse set to '''4,000Hz or 8,000Hz''' polling rates flood the engine with interrupt requests.
 +
 
 +
'''Affected Platforms:''' PC
 +
 
 +
* '''The Fix:''' Open your mouse software (Razer Synapse, Logitech G Hub) and lower the Polling Rate to '''1,000Hz''' or '''500Hz'''.
 
</div></div>
 
</div></div>
  
−
=== Checking Player log file and F2 Console ===
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<!-- KI 3 -->
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<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" data-expandtext="Show where to find logs" data-collapsetext="Hide details"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
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<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
−
When diagnosing an issue, it is useful to check the game's error logging. Tech Support may also ask for these logs to help diagnose issues too.
+
Known Issue 3 - Cannot Hear Others Or Speak Through VoIP (Opus.dll & Others)
 +
<span class="mw-customtoggle-issue3" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
 +
</div>
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<div id="mw-customcollapsible-issue3" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 +
'''Status:''' Dependency / System Priority Error
 +
 
 +
'''The Issue:''' You cannot hear others, and the F2 console says <code>DllNotFoundException: opus</code>.
 +
 
 +
'''Affected Platforms:''' PC, Xbox Series X|S , PS5
 +
 
 +
* '''The Fix PC:''' Download the latest Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable. Missing <code>Opus.dll</code> files prevent voice initialization
 +
* '''The Fix Console:''' Ensure your console is set to '''Game Chat''', not Party Chat.
 +
* '''The Fix Xbox:''' If VOIP fails on Xbox, go to '''Network Settings > Advanced > Alternate MAC Address > Clear'''. This restarts the console and resets the VOIP handshake.
 +
</div></div>
 +
 
 +
<!-- KI 4 -->
 +
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
 +
Known Issue 4 - Crashing on Launch / Splash Screen Freeze
 +
<span class="mw-customtoggle-issue4" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
 +
</div>
 +
<div id="mw-customcollapsible-issue4" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 +
 +
'''Status:''' Software Conflict / File Corruption
 +
 
 +
'''Affected Platforms:''' PC
  
−
All non-fatal error messages will be written to the in-game F2 console. At any point the game is launched, press '''F2''' to open the console. Any errors are shown in red. Warnings are shown in yellow, but most times these are normal and can be ignored.
+
'''The Issue:''' The 3.X engine is highly sensitive to corrupted shaders and virtual display drivers.
  
−
For game crashes, it is not always possible to access the F2 console. In these cases, the offending error will be logged in the Player.log file. Player logs files can be found by navigating to '''C:\Users\<yourusername>\AppData\LocalLow\Anvil Game Studio\Holdfast NaW''' on Windows. Inside is a file called 'Player', which records logs for the last game session. These logs are overwritten when a new game session is started.
+
'''The Fix:'''
  
−
For any queries, please react out to Tech Support in the official Holdfast Discord: [https://discord.com/invite/holdfastgame discord.gg/holdfastgame].
+
* '''Mono Cleanup:''' Navigate to <code>\Steam\steamapps\common\Holdfast Nations At War</code>. '''Delete''' the <code>MonoBleedingEdge</code> folder. Go to Steam > Right-click Holdfast > '''Properties''' > '''Installed Files''' > '''Verify Integrity of Game Files'''.
 +
* '''Citrix Conflict:''' If you use '''Citrix Workspace''', you must disable the "Citrix Indirect Display Adapter" in your Windows '''Device Manager'''. This driver blocks Unity's GPU initialization.
 +
* '''Hardware Monitoring:''' Close software like '''MSI Afterburner''' or '''RivaTuner'''. These overlays frequently cause "DirectX Device Lost" errors in the 2026 build.
 +
* '''Admin Mode:''' Right-click <code>Holdfast NaW.exe</code> in the installation folder and select '''Run as Administrator'''.
 
</div></div>
 
</div></div>
  
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<div style="font-size:1.1em; margin:.5em 0; font-weight:normal; border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
+
<!-- KI 5 -->
−
Known Issue 1 - Black Screen on Launch (Can Hear Music Playing)
+
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
 +
Known Issue 5 - Cannot See Servers In Lobby (PC & Console)
 +
<span class="mw-customtoggle-issue5" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
 
</div>
 
</div>
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<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" data-expandtext="Show fixes" data-collapsetext="Hide fixes">
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<div id="mw-customcollapsible-issue5" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
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<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
+
'''Status:''' Ongoing (Master Server Congestion / Routing Error)
 +
 
 +
'''The Issue:''' The lobby appears empty, or you are stuck on "Connecting."
 +
 
 +
'''Affected Platforms:''' PC, Xbox Series X|S , PS5
 +
 
 +
* '''The Fix:'''
 +
 
 +
'''Phase 1: The Soft Refresh:'''
  
−
If you launch the game and see a black screen but can still hear the music playing, you should try doing the following.
+
Before checking hardware or network settings, try the internal UI reset.
  
−
We're currently awaiting a permanent fix for this problem.
+
* '''Refresh Loop:''' Click the '''Refresh''' button (bottom left) 3–5 times. In the 2026 build, the Master Server often requires multiple handshakes to authenticate your session.
 +
* '''Filter Check:''' Ensure "Hide Empty" and "Hide Full" are '''Unchecked'''. Set the "Max Ping" slider to the far right.
  
−
==== AMD Graphics Card (GPU) ====
+
'''Phase 2: Network & Security (PC Only):'''
−
'''Follow the below instructions:'''
 
−
# Right click on your desktop and select ‘AMD Radeon Settings’.
 
−
# :[[File:Known Issue 1 AMD 1.png|frameless|thumb|Known Issue 1 AMD 1]]
 
−
# Go to the ‘Display’ tab at the very bottom and underneath your display, locate ‘Scaling Mode’. You should then select ‘Preserve Aspect Ratio’ from the drop-down menu.
 
−
# :[[File:Known Issue 1 AMD 2.jpg|frameless|thumb|Known Issue 1 AMD 2]]
 
−
# After that is done, you need to go to the ‘Gaming’ tab, locate ‘Holdfast: Nations At War’ and click on it.
 
−
# :[[File:Known Issue 1 AMD 3.jpg|frameless|thumb|Known Issue 1 AMD 3]]
 
−
# Then make sure that you turn ‘Display Scaling’ to ‘Off’ from the drop-down menu.
 
−
# :[[File:Known Issue 1 AMD 4.jpg|frameless|thumb|Known Issue 1 AMD 4]]
 
  
−
==== NVIDIA Graphics Card (GPU) ====
+
If the browser is still empty, external software is likely blocking the game's outgoing UDP requests.
−
'''Follow the below instructions:'''
 
−
# Right click on your desktop and select ‘NVIDIA Control Panel’ from the drop-down menu.
 
−
# :[[File:Known Issue 1 NVIDIA 1.png|frameless|thumb|Known Issue 1 NVIDIA 1]]
 
−
# Go to ‘Adjust desktop size and position’ from the menu to the left.
 
−
# :[[File:Known Issue 1 NVIDIA 2.png|frameless|thumb|Known Issue 1 NVIDIA 2]]
 
−
# Select ‘No Scaling’ under ‘2. Apply the following settings:’ then make sure to click on the ‘Apply’ button.
 
−
# :[[File:Known Issue 1 NVIDIA 3.png|frameless|thumb|Known Issue 1 NVIDIA 3]]
 
  
−
[https://steamcommunity.com/discussions/forum/1/1480982971174752598 Thread Reference (Steam Discussion)]
+
* '''Disable Anti-Virus:''' Temporarily disable software like '''AVG, Avast, or McAfee'''.
 +
* '''Disable Firewall:''' Turn off the Windows Defender Firewall specifically for Holdfast.
 +
* '''Disable VPN:''' Applications like '''NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or BullGuard''' often mask your Steam/Console ticket, preventing the lobby from verifying you.
 +
* '''Reset Internet:''' Power cycle your router (unplug for 30 seconds).
  
 +
'''Phase 3: The "Join Custom Server" Bypass (PC & Console):'''
 +
 +
If the standard browser list fails to populate, use this direct handshake method:
 +
 +
# Open the '''Server Browser''' from the main menu.
 +
# Look at the bottom left. If the list is empty, click '''Join Custom Server'''.
 +
# '''On PC:''' A prompt will appear. Instead of typing an IP, look for a '''Dropdown Menu''' or '''Toggle''' that says '''"Official Servers."''' Select an Official Server (e.g., ''Official EU1'') and hit '''Connect'''.
 +
# '''On Console (Xbox/PS5):''' The "Join Custom Server" button opens a simplified menu. Press the '''Y button (Xbox)''' or '''Triangle (PS5)''' to "Fetch Official List." This initiates a direct call to the Anvil Games Server, bypassing the community browser cache that often freezes.
 +
 +
'''Phase 4: Platform-Specific Authentication:'''
 +
 +
* '''PC (Steam):''' Log out of Steam entirely ('''Change Account > Log Out'''), then log back in. This forces a fresh "Steam Ticket" generation.
 +
* '''Console (Xbox/PS5):''' Fully shut down your console (do not use Sleep/Rest mode). This clears the cache and forces a new handshake with the AGS Master Server.
 +
* '''The VPN Flip:''' If your VPN was already disabled, try '''enabling it''' and selecting a different region.
 +
 +
'''Phase 5: Social & Connection Workarounds:'''
 +
 +
* '''The "Friend Join" Trick:''' On both Steam and Console (Xbox/PS Friends), the most reliable 100% workaround is to '''Join Session''' directly through your platform's friend list. This completely bypasses the in-game browser.
 +
* '''Alternative Connection:''' If possible, test your connection using a '''Mobile Hotspot'''. If servers appear on the hotspot but not your Wi-Fi, your ISP is likely blocking the game's port.
 
</div></div>
 
</div></div>
  
−
== Steam Related Issues ==
+
<!-- KI 6 -->
 +
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
 +
Known Issue 6 - Black/Green Screen Artifacts (PS5/Xbox)
 +
<span class="mw-customtoggle-issue6" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
 +
</div>
 +
<div id="mw-customcollapsible-issue6" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 +
'''Status:''' Post-Processing Desync
  
−
===Known Issue 1 - Content File Locked (Corrupted Download)===
+
'''The Issue:''' Flickering colors often occur when switching between 1st and 3rd person or during heavy naval combat.
−
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" data-expandtext="Show fix" data-collapsetext="Hide fix"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 
−
If the below error is being displayed when you launch the game directly through Steam, it is more than likely that Holdfast: NaW was corrupted whilst downloading.
 
  
−
[[File:Steam Issue 1 - 1.png|frameless|thumb|Steam Issue 1 - 1]]
+
'''Affected Platforms:''' PS5, Xbox Series X|S
  
−
'''Follow the below instructions for a fix:'''
+
* '''The Fix:''' Go to '''Settings > Video''' and disable '''Motion Blur''' and '''Depth of Field'''. This stabilizes the rendering stack on console hardware.
−
# Delete Holdfast: NaW manually from its folder (Go to were your Steam games are installed).
+
* '''Xbox Series S Fix:''' If the game crashes specifically on the Series S, disable '''High Quality Textures''' to prevent VRAM overflow.
−
# Uninstall Holdfast: NaW from Steam.
 
−
# Go to your '\AppData\LocalLow\Anvil Game Studio' and delete the 'Anvil Game Studio' folder.
 
−
# Restart your PC.  
 
−
# Install the game again.
 
 
</div></div>
 
</div></div>
  
−
===Known Issue 2 - Game Crashes After Update===
+
<!-- KI 7 -->
−
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" data-expandtext="Show fixes" data-collapsetext="Hide fixes"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
+
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
−
If you have successfully launched the game beforehand but the game is now crashing, this is more than likely being caused by one of the game files getting corrupted after the update.
+
Known Issue 7 - Reload Animation State Lock
 +
<span class="mw-customtoggle-issue7" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
 +
</div>
 +
<div id="mw-customcollapsible-issue7" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 +
'''Status:''' Animation Buffer Error
 +
 
 +
'''The Issue:''' Your character has ammunition but refuses to start the reload animation.
 +
 
 +
'''Affected Platforms:''' PC, Xbox Series X|S , PS5
  
−
'''Follow the below instructions:'''
+
* '''The Fix:''' Quickly open and close the '''Text Chat''' (View Button on Xbox / Touchpad on PS5 / Enter on PC). This forces the character's animation state to "Idle," clearing the reload block.
−
# Disable your anti-virus.
 
−
# Delete Holdfast: NaW manually from its folder (Go to were your Steam games are installed).
 
−
# Uninstall Holdfast: NaW from Steam.
 
−
# Go to your '\AppData\LocalLow\Anvil Game Studio' and delete the 'Anvil Game Studio' folder.
 
−
# Restart your PC.
 
−
# Install the game again and try launching it.
 
−
# If it doesn't work, you can try verifying the integrity of your game files by right clicking on 'Holdfast: Nations At War' in your Steam games library > Select Properties > Go to Local Files > Click on 'Verify Integrity of Game Files...' and after the file integrity check is complete, try relaunching the game again.
 
 
</div></div>
 
</div></div>
  
−
===Known Issue 3 - Black Screen When Launching (Steam Not Initialised)===
+
<!-- KI 8 -->
−
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" data-expandtext="Show fixes" data-collapsetext="Hide fixes"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
+
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
−
If you are seeing a black screen when launching the game, Steam didn't properly initialise. It is a required step for Steam to detect that you’re the owner of the game.
+
Known Issue 8 - Screen Flickering / Unresponsive When Minimizing (Alt-Tab)
 +
<span class="mw-customtoggle-issue8" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
 +
</div>
 +
<div id="mw-customcollapsible-issue8" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 +
'''Status:''' Display Mode Conflict
  
−
Here's a reference of how the black screen looks.
+
'''The Issue:''' This occurs when the game and Windows disagree on how to handle the display buffer during a task switch.
  
−
[[File:Steam Issue 3 - 1.png|frameless|thumb|Steam Issue 3 - 1]]
+
'''Affected Platforms:''' PC
  
−
'''Follow the below instructions:'''
+
* '''The Fix:'''  
−
# Log out from Steam (By clicking on your name to the top right and selecting ‘Change User..’)
+
** Go to '''Settings > Video''' in-game.
−
# Close the Steam application.
+
** Set your '''Window Mode''' to '''Borderless Window'''. This is the most stable setting for 2026; it allows for instant Alt-Tabbing without desyncing the GPU or getting stuck on a black screen.
−
# Open Steam and log in again.
+
** '''Disable Overlays:''' Flickering is frequently caused by the '''Discord Overlay''' or '''Steam Overlay''' fighting for control of the window. Disable these in their respective app settings.
−
# Try launching the game again.
+
** '''Windows 11/12 Fix:''' Ensure "Optimizations for windowed games" is '''Enabled''' in your Windows System Settings (''Settings > System > Display > Graphics > Change default graphics settings'').
 +
</div></div>
  
−
'''If the above doesn't work, try the following:'''
+
<!-- KI 9 -->
−
# Uninstall Holdfast: Nations At War.
+
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
−
# Uninstall then reinstall Steam.
+
Known Issue 9 - Level 1 / Rank Progress Reset
−
# Launch Steam as an Administrator.
+
<span class="mw-customtoggle-issue9" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
−
# Reinstall Holdfast: Nations At War.
+
</div>
−
# Verify the integrity of your game files through Steam for 'Holdfast: Nations At War'.
+
<div id="mw-customcollapsible-issue9" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
−
# Try launching the game again.
+
'''Status:''' Cloud-Sync Dela
 +
 
 +
'''The Issue:''' Your rank appears as Level 1 despite previous progress.
 +
 
 +
'''Affected Platforms:''' PC, Xbox Series X|S , PS5
 +
 
 +
* '''The Fix:''' This is a visual desync where the client fails to fetch your profile. '''Do not reinstall.''' Join an '''Official Server''' and play for one full round. The server will force-fetch your data and restore your rank at the end of the match.
 
</div></div>
 
</div></div>
  
−
=== Known Issue 4 - Loss of class XP and levels ===
+
<!-- KI 10 -->
−
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" data-expandtext="Show fixes" data-collapsetext="Hide fixes"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
+
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
−
Occasionally, players can sometimes lose some of all of their earned XP and levels for any class. This is usually caused by Steam erroring when retrieving player data, and can often be solved by a simple restart.
+
Known Issue 10 - Stuck on Map Loading Screen
 +
<span class="mw-customtoggle-issue10" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
 +
</div>
 +
<div id="mw-customcollapsible-issue10" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 +
'''Status:''' Asset Loading Desync
 +
 
 +
'''The Issue:''' The game reaches 90-100% on the loading bar but never enters the spawn menu.
  
−
'''Follow the below instructions:'''
+
'''Affected Platforms:''' PC, Xbox Series X|S , PS5
−
# Close Holdfast: Nations at War
 
−
# Restart Steam (fully log out and log back in again, re-opening the Steam client)
 
−
# Re-open Holdfast: Nations at War. Class XP and levels should be restored again.
 
  
−
'''If the above doesn't work, try the following:'''
+
* '''The Fix PC:''' This is usually caused by a single corrupted map asset. Go to Steam > Right-click Holdfast > Properties > Installed Files > Verify Integrity of Game Files.
−
If the above has not worked, please reach out to tech support for assistance.
+
* '''The Fix Console:''' On PS5 and Xbox, ensure the game is installed on the Internal SSD. Running Holdfast from an external HDD will cause "Infinite Loading" or "Map Hangs" due to slow read speeds.
 +
* '''The Fix Xbox:''' If stuck on a load screen, go to Network Settings > Advanced Settings > Alternate MAC Address > Clear. This restarts the console and flushes the temporary data that causes map desyncs.
 
</div></div>
 
</div></div>
  
−
=== Known Issue 5 - Permission Denied error in Regiment Registry ===
+
<!-- KI 11 -->
−
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" data-expandtext="Show fixes" data-collapsetext="Hide fixes"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
+
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
−
Users may encounter an error when attempted to modify their regiment in the registry (for example, modifying ranks or accepting/denying members). This is usually caused by Steam auth returning an error, thus a simple restart should work.
+
Known Issue 11 - Fatal Crash on Startup (Citrix Workspace Conflict)
 +
<span class="mw-customtoggle-issue11" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
 +
</div>
 +
<div id="mw-customcollapsible-issue11" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 +
 
 +
 
 +
'''Status:''' Software Conflict (Citrix Indirect Display Adapter)
  
−
'''Follow the below instructions:'''
+
'''The Cause:''' If you use '''Citrix Workspace''' for work, it installs a virtual display driver that frequently causes Unity games to crash immediately upon initialization.
−
# Close ''Holdfast: Nations at War''
 
−
# Restart Steam (fully log out and log back in again, re-opening the Steam client)
 
−
# Re-open ''Holdfast: Nations at War''.
 
  
−
'''If the above doesn't work, try the following:'''
+
'''Affected Platforms:''' PC
−
Keep restarting your game a few times - sometimes more than one restart is needed.
+
 
 +
* '''The Fix:'''
 +
 
 +
'''Phase 1.''' To confirm this is the cause, check your error log:
 +
 
 +
# Press <code>Win + R</code>, type <code>%localappdata%low</code>, and navigate to <code>Anvil Game Studio > Holdfast NaW</code>.
 +
# Open <code>Player.log</code>. If you see '''"GfxDevice: creating device client; threaded=1"''' followed immediately by '''"Crash!!!"''', Citrix is the culprit.
 +
 
 +
'''Phase 2'''. You do not need to uninstall Citrix. Try these steps in order:
 +
 
 +
* '''Option A: Disable the Virtual Adapter (Recommended):'''
 +
*# Right-click the '''Start button''' and select '''Device Manager'''.
 +
*# Expand '''Display adapters'''.
 +
*# Right-click '''Citrix Indirect Display Adapter''' and select '''Disable device'''.
 +
*# You can now launch Holdfast. ''Note: You may need to re-enable this later for your work remote desktop to function.''
 +
* '''Option B: Disable the Bus Enumerator:'''
 +
*# In '''Device Manager''', expand '''System devices'''.
 +
*# Locate '''Citrix Virtual Bus Enumerator'''.
 +
*# Right-click and select '''Disable device'''. This often resolves the crash without needing to touch the display drivers.
 +
* '''Option C: The Windows Store Version:'''
 +
*# Uninstall your current Citrix Workspace app.
 +
*# Download the '''Citrix Workspace''' app directly from the '''Microsoft Store'''.
 +
*# The Store version uses a different driver architecture that does not conflict with the Unity engine in 2026.
  
−
'''If the above doesn't work, try the following:'''
 
−
Very rarely, repeated restarts of Steam and ''Holdfast: Nations at War'' do not resolve this error. However, it can sometimes take minutes, hours, or even days to work, the reason for which is still under investigation. If you are still having issues, reach out to tech support for further assistance. Leave it for a few hours or days and it should eventually fix itself.
 
 
</div></div>
 
</div></div>
  
−
==Game Tips==
+
<!-- KI 12 -->
 +
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
 +
Known Issue 12 - Fatal Crash on Startup (Virtual Desktop & VR Drivers)
 +
<span class="mw-customtoggle-issue12" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
 +
</div>
 +
<div id="mw-customcollapsible-issue12" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 +
'''Status:''' GPU Initialization Conflict
 +
 
 +
'''The Issue:''' Users of Virtual Desktop, Meta Quest Link, or Pico Connect may experience an instant crash upon launching the game.
 +
 
 +
'''The Cause:''' The game engine attempts to initialize on the "Virtual Monitor" created by your VR software rather than your physical GPU.
 +
 
 +
'''Affected Platforms:''' PC
 +
 
 +
* '''The Fix:'''
 +
 
 +
'''Phase 1.''' You do not need to uninstall your VR software. Try these steps in order:
 +
 
 +
* '''Option A: Disable the Virtual Monitor (Recommended):'''
 +
*# Right-click the '''Start button''' and select '''Device Manager'''.
 +
*# Expand '''Display adapters'''.
 +
*# Look for '''Virtual Desktop Monitor''', '''Meta Quest Link Display''', or '''Pico Virtual Display'''.
 +
*# Right-click and select '''Disable device'''.
 +
*# Launch Holdfast. You can safely re-enable the driver once you are done playing.
 +
* '''Option B: Power Cycle the Streamer:'''
 +
** Ensure your VR Streamer app (on your PC) is '''completely closed''' and not just minimized to the system tray before launching Holdfast. If the streamer is active, it "claims" the display buffer, preventing ''Holdfast'' from opening in Fullscreen mode.
 +
* '''Option C: Disable "HAGS" (Windows 11/12):'''
 +
** '''Hardware-Accelerated GPU Scheduling (HAGS)''' is known to cause fatal conflicts between Unity and VR drivers.
 +
** Go to '''Settings > System > Display > Graphics > Change default graphics settings''' and toggle '''Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling''' to '''Off'''. Restart your PC and try launching the game again.
 +
 
 +
'''Phase 2. Identifying the Conflict in Logs'''
  
−
===Game Tip 1 - Orbit Camera (Look Around) Not Working===
+
If you aren't sure if a VR driver is the cause:
−
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" data-expandtext="Show tip" data-collapsetext="Hide tip"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 
−
If the 'Orbit Camera' used to look around your character without moving around is not working, try changing the default key to another from the key settings. The default key for the orbit camera is tilde '~'.
 
  
−
'''Follow the below instructions:'''
+
# Open your <code>Player.log</code> in <code>%localappdata%low\Anvil Game Studio\Holdfast NaW\</code>.
−
# Go to 'Settings' > Then navigate to the 'Keys' tab > Change the key for the 'Orbit Camera' to another one.
+
# Look for the line: <code>GfxDevice: creating device client; threaded=1</code>.
 +
# If the very next line is <code>Crash!!!</code> or <code>Device Lost</code>, an active virtual display driver (VR or Citrix) is almost certainly the cause.
 
</div></div>
 
</div></div>
  
−
===Game Tip 2 - Left Clicking When Using A Musket From Firing Mode Is Going Into Melee Mode===
+
<!-- KI 13 -->
−
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" data-expandtext="Show tip" data-collapsetext="Hide tip"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
+
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
−
Within the game, you right click to aim, left click to fire and press 'R' to reload. If you left click when you're in firing mode with a bayonetted musket, it will go automatically into melee mode. You can disable this through the game options.
+
Known Issue 13 - Cannot Join Modded Server (Connection/Download Error)
 +
<span class="mw-customtoggle-issue13" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
 +
</div>
 +
<div id="mw-customcollapsible-issue13" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 +
'''Status:''' Workshop Handshake & Sync Conflict
 +
 
 +
'''The Cause:''' The client and server cannot synchronize the required modification files.
 +
 
 +
'''Affected Platforms:''' PC
 +
 
 +
* '''The Fix:'''
 +
 
 +
'''Phase 1.''' In Steam, go to '''Settings > Downloads > Clear Download Cache'''. Steam will restart. This forces the client to re-check all <code>modlist.txt</code> requirements for Holdfast.
  
−
'''Follow the below instructions:'''
+
'''Phase 2.''' Close Holdfast and Steam. Navigate to: <code>Steam\userdata\[YourSteamID]\ugc\workshop</code>. Delete the <code>subscriptions.vdf</code> file. Relaunch Steam; this forces a full re-sync of every mod you are subscribed to, fixing 99% of "Version Mismatch" errors.
−
# Go to 'Settings' > Then 'Game' > Look under 'Melee Combat' > And disable 'Auto Bayonet Switch'.
+
 
 +
'''Phase 3.''' If a specific mod is stuck, go to <code>Steam\steamapps\workshop\content\589290</code> and delete the contents. Steam will re-download the clean versions next time you try to join a modded server.
 
</div></div>
 
</div></div>
  
−
===Game Tip 3 - Restrictive Melee Combat When Striking (Turning Rate Too Low)===
+
<!-- KI 14 -->
−
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" data-expandtext="Show tip" data-collapsetext="Hide tip"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
+
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
−
If melee combat feels restrictive when holding a strike and turning, you should try increasing sensitivity of the 'Melee Combat' sensitivity slider.
+
Known Issue 14 - No Main Menu (Camera Stuck on Cannon/Howitzer Background)
 +
<span class="mw-customtoggle-issue14" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
 +
</div>
 +
<div id="mw-customcollapsible-issue14" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 +
'''Status:''' UI Layer Initialization Error
 +
 
 +
'''The Cause:''' The game loads the background scene, but the buttons (Join Game, Armoury, Settings) never appear.
 +
 
 +
'''Affected Platforms:''' PC, Xbox Series X|S , PS5
 +
 
 +
* '''The Fix:'''
 +
 
 +
'''Option A: The Configuration Reset (PC):'''
 +
 
 +
# Close the game.
 +
# Press <code>Win + R</code>, type <code>%localappdata%low</code>, and navigate to <code>Anvil Game Studio > Holdfast NaW</code>.
 +
# '''Delete''' the file named <code>HoldfastOptions.ini</code>.
 +
# Relaunch the game. The engine will generate a fresh, default configuration file, which forces the UI layer to re-anchor to your current resolution.
 +
 
 +
'''Option B: UI Safe-Mode (PC):'''
 +
 
 +
* If the menu is still missing, go to Steam > Right-click Holdfast > '''Properties'''.
 +
* In '''Launch Options''', type: <code>-screen-width 1920 -screen-height 1080</code>.
 +
* This forces a standard aspect ratio that often "pops" the UI back into the visible frame if it was bugged by an ultrawide or custom resolution.
 +
 
 +
'''Option C: Language Sync Fix (Console):'''
  
−
'''Follow the below instructions:'''
+
* On '''Xbox''' and '''PS5''', this is often caused by a mismatch between the console's system language and the game's supported localization. Ensure your console language is set to '''English (US or UK)''' as a test to see if the menu returns.
−
# Go to 'Settings' > Then 'Game' > Look under 'Mouse Sensitivity' > And increase the 'Melee Combat' sensitivity slider.
 
 
</div></div>
 
</div></div>
  
−
===Game Tip 4 - Shadowplay Is Not Working===
+
<!-- KI 15 -->
−
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" data-expandtext="Show tip" data-collapsetext="Hide tip"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
+
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
−
If Nvidia Shadowplay isn't working, you can try pre-launching Holdfast: Nations At War with the below parameter.
+
Known Issue 15 - Microphone Not Working (VOIP / Proximity Chat)
 +
<span class="mw-customtoggle-issue15" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
 +
</div>
 +
<div id="mw-customcollapsible-issue15" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 +
'''Status:''' Audio Device Handshake / OS Privacy Conflict
 +
 
 +
'''The Cause:''' This occurs when the game cannot claim the "Exclusive Mode" of your microphone or is being blocked by system-level privacy settings.
 +
 
 +
'''Affected Platforms:''' PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5
 +
 
 +
* '''The Fix PC:'''
 +
 
 +
'''Privacy Toggle:''' Go to Windows Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone. Ensure "Microphone Access" is ON and specifically that "Let desktop apps access your microphone" is toggled ON for Holdfast.
 +
 
 +
'''The IPv6 Fix''': A specific bug in the 3.X engine's Vivox integration causes VOIP to fail on certain routers using IPv6.
 +
 
 +
# Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings.
 +
# Right-click your connection > Properties.
 +
# Uncheck "Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6)". Click OK and relaunch.
 +
 
 +
'''Exclusive Mode:''' Press <code>Win + R</code>, type <code>mmsys.cpl</code>. Under the Recording tab, right-click your mic > Properties > Advanced. Uncheck "Allow applications to take exclusive control of this device".
 +
 
 +
* '''The Fix Console:'''
 +
 
 +
'''Party Chat Conflict:''' If you are in a PlayStation or Xbox Party, the game’s Push-to-Talk (PTT) will be muted by the OS. You must switch to Game Chat in your console's Quick Menu.
 +
 
 +
'''PTT Indicator:''' On console, Holdfast uses Push-to-Talk only. Hold Y (Xbox) or Triangle (PS5). If the microphone icon does not appear above your health bar, your mic is not being detected at the hardware level.
  
−
'''Follow the below instructions:'''
+
'''Alternate MAC Address (Xbox):''' If your mic works in other games but not Holdfast, go to Settings > Network > Advanced > Alternate MAC Address > Clear. This clears the network cache associated with the VOIP handshake.
−
# Right click on 'Holdfast: Nations At War' in your Steam library > Select 'Properties' from the drop-down menu > Click on 'Set Launch Options' > Insert the following parameter: '''-window-mode exclusive'''
 
−
# Launch Holdfast: NaW and try again.
 
 
</div></div>
 
</div></div>
  
−
===Game Tip 5 - Game Stuttering (V-Sync)===
+
<!-- KI 16 -->
−
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" data-expandtext="Show tip" data-collapsetext="Hide tip"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
+
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
−
If your game is stuttering even with high framerates. We recommend that you try turning on V-Sync from within the game.
+
Known Issue 16 - Game Stuck on Map Load
 +
<span class="mw-customtoggle-issue16" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
 +
</div>
 +
<div id="mw-customcollapsible-issue16" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 +
'''Status:''' Asset Synchronization or Network Timeout
 +
 
 +
'''The Cause:''' This occurs when the client fails to download the final map metadata or cannot handshake with the server's instance after the map has loaded.
 +
 
 +
'''Affected Platforms:''' PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5
 +
 
 +
* '''The Fix PC:'''
 +
 
 +
'''Verify Workshop Integrity:''' Map loading freezes are almost always caused by a corrupted map file (especially on modded servers).
 +
 
 +
# Close Holdfast.
 +
# Go to Steam > Right-click Holdfast > Properties > Installed Files > Verify Integrity of Game Files.
 +
 
 +
'''SSD Requirement:''' If the game is installed on an older HDD, the engine may timeout during asset decryption. Moving the game to an SSD is the primary fix for "Infinite Loading."
 +
 
 +
'''The VPN Toggle:''' While old advice said "Disable it," 2026 routing is complex. If you are stuck on a load screen:
 +
 
 +
# If VPN is OFF: Try turning it ON to a different region to bypass an ISP routing bottleneck.
 +
# If VPN is ON: Turn it OFF, as some VPNs block the specific UDP ports (7777-7780) used for the final server handshake.
 +
 
 +
* '''The Fix Console:'''
 +
 
 +
'''The Quick Resume Bug (Xbox):''' This is the #1 cause of stuck loading screens on Xbox. Never use Quick Resume for Holdfast. Always highlight the game tile > Menu Button > Quit, then relaunch.
 +
 
 +
'''Alternate MAC Address (Xbox):''' If stuck at 99%, go to Settings > Network Settings > Advanced Settings > Alternate MAC Address > Clear. This clears the temporary network cache that often holds a "stale" connection to the previous map.
 +
 
 +
'''Rebuild Database (PS5):''' If certain maps (like ''Palisade'') always freeze, boot your PS5 into Safe Mode (hold power for 2 beeps) and select Option 5: Clear Cache and Rebuild Database.
 +
 
 +
* '''The Fix PC/Console:''' DNS Handshake
  
−
'''Follow the below instructions:'''
+
# If you are stuck on the loading screen only when joining Official Servers, your ISP is likely failing to resolve the AGS API.
−
# Go to 'Settings' > Then 'Video' > And enable 'VSYNC'.
+
# Change your Primary DNS to 8.8.8.8 and Secondary to 1.1.1.1.
 
</div></div>
 
</div></div>
  
−
==Server Side Issues==
+
<!-- KI 17 -->
 +
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
 +
Known Issue 17 - Reginald 'One Eyed' Fitzgerald Head Not Unlocking
 +
<span class="mw-customtoggle-issue17" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
 +
</div>
 +
<div id="mw-customcollapsible-issue17" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 +
'''Status:''' Legacy Method Deprecated (Switch to Code Challenge)
 +
 
 +
'''The Cause:''' As of the 3.X build, rewards are no longer tracked by local Discord app detection. You must now manually link your game profile to your Discord account via the in-game Armoury.
 +
 
 +
'''Affected Platforms:''' PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5
 +
 
 +
* '''The Fix:'''
 +
 
 +
'''Join the Discord''': If you haven't already, join the [[/discord.gg/holdfastgame|Official Holdfast Discord]].
  
−
====Known Issue 1 - Your Server Is Experiencing Latency Issues====
+
'''Generate Your Code:''' Open Holdfast and navigate to Armoury > Social. Click the Link Discord button. The game will provide you with a unique Challenge Code.
−
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" data-expandtext="Show checklist" data-collapsetext="Hide checklist"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 
−
Take note of the following points if the server you are hosting is experiencing latency issues.
 
  
−
The documentation for hosting a server can be found down below.
+
'''Bot Verification:''' Go to the Official Holdfast Discord and find the <code>#link-game-profile</code> channel. Follow the instructions.
  
−
'''[[Server_Hosting|Host Your Own Game Server! - Documentation]]'''
+
'''Claim Reward:''' Once the bot confirms the link, return to the in-game Armoury.
  
−
'''Take note of the following:'''
 
−
# Make sure that your CPU has a core speed of at least 3.6 GHz and that you’re not exceeding your bandwidth. You should also run your game server on a single physical and logical core.
 
−
# Make sure that your server box's 'Power Options' are set to ''''High Performance'''' on Windows. By default, this is set to 'Balanced'. Please change this!
 
−
# Make sure that you have the latest Windows updates installed on your machine. This is very important.
 
−
# Make sure that you follow the folder structure as defined in the documentation. Copy over the ‘holdfast_naw_public_servers’ folder over to your root drive then include the contents of the game from Steam in the ‘holdfast_naw_public_server’ folder.
 
−
# Make sure that you port forward the game ports from your firewall and router, (outbound and inbound), on UDP.
 
−
# Don’t rename the ‘Holdfast NaW.exe’ executable.
 
−
# Don’t switch between Naval and Army based game modes.
 
 
</div></div>
 
</div></div>
  
−
== Platform-Specific Known Issues & Solutions ==
+
== Steam Related Issues ==
−
The following sections expand the existing troubleshooting documentation with solutions specific to PC, Xbox, and PlayStation 5.
+
 
 +
<!-- Steam 1 -->
 +
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
 +
Steam Known Issue 1 - Steam Content File Locked / Write Error
 +
<span class="mw-customtoggle-steam1" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
 +
</div>
 +
<div id="mw-customcollapsible-steam1" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 +
'''Status:''' File Permission Conflict
 +
 
 +
'''The Cause:''' This occurs when Windows or an overzealous Anti-Virus prevents Steam from modifying the game's executable after a patch.
 +
 
 +
'''Affected Platforms:''' PC
 +
 
 +
* '''The Fix:'''
 +
 
 +
'''Phase 1:''' Restart your PC: This is the most effective way to clear a "locked" file state.  
  
−
=== I. PC & Console ===
+
'''Phase 2:''' Clear Download Cache: In Steam, go to Settings > Downloads > Clear Download Cache.  
−
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" data-expandtext="Expand PC & Console" data-collapsetext="Collapse PC & Console"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 
−
This section covers common issues Holdfast players face on both PC and console. Always check for game and system updates first.
 
  
−
==== Common Pre-Checks ====
+
'''Phase 3'''.  Run as Admin: Right-click the Steam Shortcut on your desktop > Properties > Compatibility > Check "Run this program as an administrator".
−
'''PC (Steam): Verify Integrity of Game Files'''
+
</div></div><div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"></div>
−
# Right-click on ''Holdfast: Nations at War'' in your Steam library → **Properties** → **Local Files** → **Verify Integrity of Game Files**.
 
  
−
'''Xbox: Clear Console Cache'''
+
==Game Tips==
−
# With the console on, press and hold the Xbox button on the front ~10 seconds until it shuts down.
+
 
−
# Unplug power for 30 seconds, plug back in, turn on. (Green boot-up animation confirms cache cleared.)
+
<!-- Tip 1 -->
 +
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
 +
Game Tip 1 - Orbit Camera (Look Around) Not Working
 +
<span class="mw-customtoggle-tip1" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
 +
</div>
 +
<div id="mw-customcollapsible-tip1" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 +
'''Status:''' Updated for Cross-Platform
 +
 
 +
'''The Cause:''' If the tilde <code>~</code> key is unresponsive, it is likely due to a regional keyboard conflict (common with UK/EU layouts).
 +
 
 +
'''Affected Platforms:''' PC
 +
 
 +
* '''The Fix:''' Go to Settings > Keys and rebind Orbit Camera to <code>Left Alt</code> or <code>Caps Lock</code>.
 +
</div></div>
  
−
'''PS5: Clear Cache & Rebuild Database'''
+
<!-- Tip 2 -->
−
# Power off completely (not Rest Mode).
+
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
−
# Hold the power button; release after second beep to enter Safe Mode.
+
Game Tip 2 - Auto Bayonet Switch (Melee Conflict)
−
# Connect controller via USB → press **PS** → choose **Option 5: Clear Cache and Rebuild Database** → **Clear System Software Cache**.
+
<span class="mw-customtoggle-tip2" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
 +
</div>
 +
<div id="mw-customcollapsible-tip2" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 +
'''Status:'''  Highly Recommended for Competitive Play
  
−
==== Performance Issues (Low FPS, Stuttering, Lag) ====
+
'''The Cause:''' If you find yourself accidentally stabbing when you meant to fire, the "Auto Bayonet Switch" is likely active.
−
* FPS drops in large battles; stutter/freezes with many players; low FPS even on low settings.
 
  
−
'''Consoles'''
+
* '''The Fix:''' Go to Settings > Game > search for "Auto Switch Bayonet" and set it to OFF.
−
* Switch to **Performance Mode**.
+
</div></div>
−
* Use a **wired** connection.
 
−
* Lower graphics settings.
 
  
−
'''PC'''
+
<!-- Tip 3 -->
−
* Update GPU drivers.
+
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
−
* Disable **V-Sync** (test both on/off).
+
Game Tip 3 - Melee Fluidity & "Smooth" vs. "Raw" Input
−
* Lower graphics settings.
+
<span class="mw-customtoggle-tip3" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
−
* Close background apps/overlays.
+
</div>
−
* Use a **wired** connection.
+
<div id="mw-customcollapsible-tip3" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 +
'''Status:''' Engine Feature
  
−
==== Connectivity Issues (Empty Server Browser, Disconnects, High Ping) ====
+
'''The Cause:''' If melee feels "stiff" or "restrictive," it is often due to the new Melee Sensitivity Type introduced in the 3.X engine.
−
* Restart router/modem.
 
−
* Use wired connection.
 
−
* Close and relaunch the game.
 
−
* On PC: log out/in of Steam, disable VPN, check firewall.
 
  
−
==== Game Crashes or Freezes ====
+
* '''The Fix:'''
−
* Restart game/system.
 
−
* Clear cache (console).
 
−
* Verify file integrity (PC).
 
−
* Reinstall the game (last resort).
 
−
* Disable overlays (PC).
 
  
−
==== VOIP Not Working ====
+
# Go to Settings > Game > Advanced Settings.
−
* Check in-game audio device/settings.
+
# Look for Melee Sensitivity Type.  
−
* Relaunch the game.
+
# Raw: Best for "Spinners" and high-level players. It removes all camera smoothing.  
−
* Check headset mute/console mute/admin mute.
+
# Smooth (Legacy): Better for beginners who find the camera too jittery during 4-directional blocking.
−
* Appeal in Discord if server/admin muted.
 
  
−
==== In-Game Bugs & Glitches (Quick Workarounds) ====
+
'''Sensitivity Tip:''' Set your Melee Combat Sensitivity to at least 2.0 (PC) or 2.2 (Console) to remain competitive in 360-degree combat.
−
* Reload glitch: Open & close text chat.
 
−
* Stuck state: Respawn.
 
−
* Visual artifacts: Update game/drivers.
 
 
</div></div>
 
</div></div>
  
−
=== II. Xbox Series X|S ===
+
<!-- Tip 4 -->
−
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" data-expandtext="Expand Xbox" data-collapsetext="Collapse Xbox"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
+
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
−
* User Privileges issue → Fix via Game Pass subscription/account management.
+
Game Tip 4 - Recording & Shadowplay (NVIDIA App)
−
* Performance → Set to **Performance Mode**.
+
<span class="mw-customtoggle-tip4" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
−
* Crashes/Freezes → Clear cache (see steps above).
+
</div>
−
* Text Chat unavailable → Fix coming soon.
+
<div id="mw-customcollapsible-tip4" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
−
* Connectivity → Restart console/game; check network status.
+
 
−
* Controller sensitivity → Adjust in settings.
+
 
−
* Loading screen stuck → Full restart of console.
+
'''Status:''' Parameter Update Warning
 +
 
 +
'''The Cause:''' Do NOT use <code>-window-mode exclusive</code> This parameter causes the game to crash when Alt-Tabbing and interferes with NVIDIA Reflex.
 +
 
 +
'''Affected Platforms:''' PC
 +
 
 +
* '''The Fix:'''
 +
 
 +
# Set the game to Borderless Window in the video settings.  
 +
# Open the NVIDIA App (formerly Geforce Experience) and ensure "Desktop Capture" is enabled in the Privacy settings.  
 +
# The NVIDIA App recognizes Holdfast’s 3.X engine natively; if it fails to record, simply Verify Integrity of Game Files to refresh the API handshake.
 
</div></div>
 
</div></div>
  
−
=== III. PlayStation 5 ===
+
<!-- Tip 5 -->
−
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" data-expandtext="Expand PS5" data-collapsetext="Collapse PS5"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
+
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
−
* Performance → Performance Mode.
+
Game Tip 5 - Stuttering, G-Sync, and NVIDIA Reflex
−
* Crashes/Freezes → Known bug; devs investigating. Restart and ensure system/game up to date.
+
<span class="mw-customtoggle-tip5" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
−
* Connectivity → Restart console/game.
+
</div>
−
* Controller issues → Adjust sensitivity/dead zones.
+
<div id="mw-customcollapsible-tip5" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
−
* Loading screen stuck → Restart console/game.
+
'''Status:''' Standard V-Sync
−
* AGS API connection issue → Temporary server-side issue; restart console.
+
 
 +
'''The Cause:''' Considered a secondary fix for the smoothest experience
 +
 
 +
'''Affected Platforms:''' PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5
 +
 
 +
* '''The Fix PC (NVIDIA):'''
 +
 
 +
# Enable NVIDIA Reflex (On + Boost) in the Video settings. This automatically caps your FPS and minimizes input lag better than V-Sync.  
 +
# Disable in-game VSYNC.
 +
 
 +
* '''The Fix PC (AMD):''' Enable Radeon Anti-Lag+ and set a frame cap 3 FPS below your monitor's refresh rate.
 +
 
 +
* '''The Fix Console:''' Go to Settings > Video and toggle Performance Mode. This targets 60 FPS (up to 120 FPS on supported displays) by dynamically scaling resolution.
 
</div></div>
 
</div></div>
  
−
=== IV. PC (Steam) ===
+
==Server Side Issues==
−
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" data-expandtext="Expand PC (Steam)" data-collapsetext="Collapse PC (Steam)"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
+
 
−
* Performance → Lower graphics, close background apps, set process priority (test cautiously).
+
<!-- Server 1 -->
−
* Crashes/Freezes → Update GPU drivers; run Steam/Holdfast as admin.
+
<div style="font-size:1.1em;margin:.5em 0;font-weight:normal;border-bottom:1px solid #ccc;">
−
* Connectivity → Disable VPN/antivirus (temporarily), check server browser filters, restart Steam.
+
Known Issue (Server) - Your Server Is Experiencing Latency Issues
−
* Audio stuttering → Adjust Windows sound settings; disable enhancements; update audio drivers.
+
<span class="mw-customtoggle-server1" style="font-size:.9em;margin-left:.5em;">[Show/Hide]</span>
−
* Linux rendering issues → Switch to a different Proton version; ensure appropriate GPU drivers (e.g., Cosmic/mesa).
+
</div>
−
* Low-spec hardware → Consider [https://www.nvidia.com/en-us/geforce-now/ NVIDIA GeForce NOW].
+
<div id="mw-customcollapsible-server1" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 +
Take note of the following points if the server you are hosting is experiencing latency issues.
 +
 
 +
The documentation for hosting a server can be found down below.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Server_Hosting|Host Your Own Game Server! - Documentation]]'''
 +
 
 +
'''Take note of the following:'''
 +
# Make sure that your CPU has a core speed of at least 3.6 GHz and that you’re not exceeding your bandwidth. You should also run your game server on a single physical and logical core.
 +
# Make sure that your server box's 'Power Options' are set to '''High Performance''' on Windows. By default, this is set to 'Balanced'. Please change this!
 +
# Make sure that you have the latest Windows updates installed on your machine. This is very important.
 +
# Make sure that you follow the folder structure as defined in the documentation. Copy over the ‘holdfast_naw_public_servers’ folder over to your root drive then include the contents of the game from Steam in the ‘holdfast_naw_public_server’ folder.
 +
# Make sure that you port forward the game ports from your firewall and router, (outbound and inbound), on UDP.
 +
# Don’t rename the ‘Holdfast NaW.exe’ executable.
 +
# Don’t switch between Naval and Army based game modes.
 
</div></div>
 
</div></div>

Latest revision as of 09:56, 28 January 2026

🛠️ Section I: Essential Diagnostics (Agnostic)

Before submitting a ticket to the Official Discord, you must perform these steps to rule out local data corruption.

1. Integrity Validation (Steam)

Asset corruption is the #1 cause of "Pink Textures" (missing materials) and map load crashes.

  • Procedure: Right-click Holdfast: Nations at War in Steam > Properties > Installed Files > Verify Integrity of Game Files.
  • Note: Steam will automatically re-acquire any file that fails the SHA check.

2. Error Logging & Console Access

  • F2 Console: Press F2 in-game. Red lines are fatal errors; Yellow lines are warnings.
  • Local Logs: Your crash data is stored at %userprofile%\AppData\LocalLow\Anvil Game Studio\Holdfast NaW\Player.log.
  • Critical: You must copy this file immediately after a crash. Relaunching the game overwrites it.

For any queries, please reach out to Tech Support in the official Holdfast Discord: discord.gg/holdfastgame.

🚩 Section II: Critical Known Issues (PC & Console)

Here's a list of known issues within the game which we're already aware of. You can rest assured that we're doing our best to solve them and please do get in touch with us if you ever face any issues whilst playing the game!

Known Issue 1 - Black Screen on Launch (Audio/Music Playing) [Show/Hide]

Status: GPU Scaling & Handshake Conflict

Affected Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X|S , PS5

The Cause: This occurs when the game's internal resolution doesn't match the display's scaling parameters, causing the monitor to receive no signal while the game runs in the background.

The Fix PC:

NVIDIA Phase 1. NVIDIA GPU Scaling (NVIDIA App / Control Panel)

  • NVIDIA App Path: Open the NVIDIA App > Graphics tab > Global Settings. Ensure Image Scaling is Off.
  • Legacy Control Panel Path: Right-click Desktop > NVIDIA Control Panel > Adjust desktop size and position. Under "Select a scaling mode," choose No Scaling. Click Apply.

AMD Phase 1. AMD GPU Scaling (AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition)

  • The Path: Open AMD Software > Gaming > Games > Holdfast: Nations At War.
  • The Fix: Under the Display section on the right, set Scaling Mode to Preserve Aspect Ratio.
  • Important: Ensure Integer Scaling is set to Disabled, as this often causes "Out of Range" black screens on 1440p and 4K monitors in the current build.

Phase 2. Manual Resolution Reset (PC)

If the scaling fix doesn't work, you must force the game into a Windowed state to reset the engine's display handshake:

  1. Press Win + R, type %localappdata%low, and navigate to Anvil Game Studio > Holdfast NaW.
  2. Open HoldfastOptions.ini with Notepad.
  3. Find the line fullscreenMode and change the value to 1 (Windowed).
  4. Save the file and relaunch the game. Once the image appears, you can change your resolution in the in-game settings and switch back to Fullscreen.

Phase 3. The "Alt + Enter" Force-Refresh (PC)

If the screen is black but you hear music, press Alt + Enter on your keyboard. This forces the Windows OS to toggle the display mode. This often "wakes up" the GPU driver and forces it to render the frame buffer correctly.

  • The Fix Console: This is usually a conflict with VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) or 120Hz Output handshakes.
  • Xbox: Settings > TV & Display Options > Video Modes. Uncheck Allow Variable Refresh Rate.
  • PS5: Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output. Set VRR and 120 Hz Output to Off.
  • Launch the game; once the visuals appear, you can safely re-enable these settings in the console menu.

Known Issue 2 - High Polling Rate Stutter (Mouse Lag) [Show/Hide]

High Polling Rate Stutter (Mouse Lag)

Status: Unity Engine Constraint (Input Thread Saturation)

The Issue: Your camera "hitches" or FPS drops drastically when moving the mouse, even on high-end PCs.

The Cause: Mouse set to 4,000Hz or 8,000Hz polling rates flood the engine with interrupt requests.

Affected Platforms: PC

  • The Fix: Open your mouse software (Razer Synapse, Logitech G Hub) and lower the Polling Rate to 1,000Hz or 500Hz.

Known Issue 3 - Cannot Hear Others Or Speak Through VoIP (Opus.dll & Others) [Show/Hide]

Status: Dependency / System Priority Error

The Issue: You cannot hear others, and the F2 console says DllNotFoundException: opus.

Affected Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X|S , PS5

  • The Fix PC: Download the latest Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable. Missing Opus.dll files prevent voice initialization
  • The Fix Console: Ensure your console is set to Game Chat, not Party Chat.
  • The Fix Xbox: If VOIP fails on Xbox, go to Network Settings > Advanced > Alternate MAC Address > Clear. This restarts the console and resets the VOIP handshake.

Known Issue 4 - Crashing on Launch / Splash Screen Freeze [Show/Hide]

Status: Software Conflict / File Corruption

Affected Platforms: PC

The Issue: The 3.X engine is highly sensitive to corrupted shaders and virtual display drivers.

The Fix:

  • Mono Cleanup: Navigate to \Steam\steamapps\common\Holdfast Nations At War. Delete the MonoBleedingEdge folder. Go to Steam > Right-click Holdfast > Properties > Installed Files > Verify Integrity of Game Files.
  • Citrix Conflict: If you use Citrix Workspace, you must disable the "Citrix Indirect Display Adapter" in your Windows Device Manager. This driver blocks Unity's GPU initialization.
  • Hardware Monitoring: Close software like MSI Afterburner or RivaTuner. These overlays frequently cause "DirectX Device Lost" errors in the 2026 build.
  • Admin Mode: Right-click Holdfast NaW.exe in the installation folder and select Run as Administrator.

Known Issue 5 - Cannot See Servers In Lobby (PC & Console) [Show/Hide]

Status: Ongoing (Master Server Congestion / Routing Error)

The Issue: The lobby appears empty, or you are stuck on "Connecting."

Affected Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X|S , PS5

  • The Fix:

Phase 1: The Soft Refresh:

Before checking hardware or network settings, try the internal UI reset.

  • Refresh Loop: Click the Refresh button (bottom left) 3–5 times. In the 2026 build, the Master Server often requires multiple handshakes to authenticate your session.
  • Filter Check: Ensure "Hide Empty" and "Hide Full" are Unchecked. Set the "Max Ping" slider to the far right.

Phase 2: Network & Security (PC Only):

If the browser is still empty, external software is likely blocking the game's outgoing UDP requests.

  • Disable Anti-Virus: Temporarily disable software like AVG, Avast, or McAfee.
  • Disable Firewall: Turn off the Windows Defender Firewall specifically for Holdfast.
  • Disable VPN: Applications like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or BullGuard often mask your Steam/Console ticket, preventing the lobby from verifying you.
  • Reset Internet: Power cycle your router (unplug for 30 seconds).

Phase 3: The "Join Custom Server" Bypass (PC & Console):

If the standard browser list fails to populate, use this direct handshake method:

  1. Open the Server Browser from the main menu.
  2. Look at the bottom left. If the list is empty, click Join Custom Server.
  3. On PC: A prompt will appear. Instead of typing an IP, look for a Dropdown Menu or Toggle that says "Official Servers." Select an Official Server (e.g., Official EU1) and hit Connect.
  4. On Console (Xbox/PS5): The "Join Custom Server" button opens a simplified menu. Press the Y button (Xbox) or Triangle (PS5) to "Fetch Official List." This initiates a direct call to the Anvil Games Server, bypassing the community browser cache that often freezes.

Phase 4: Platform-Specific Authentication:

  • PC (Steam): Log out of Steam entirely (Change Account > Log Out), then log back in. This forces a fresh "Steam Ticket" generation.
  • Console (Xbox/PS5): Fully shut down your console (do not use Sleep/Rest mode). This clears the cache and forces a new handshake with the AGS Master Server.
  • The VPN Flip: If your VPN was already disabled, try enabling it and selecting a different region.

Phase 5: Social & Connection Workarounds:

  • The "Friend Join" Trick: On both Steam and Console (Xbox/PS Friends), the most reliable 100% workaround is to Join Session directly through your platform's friend list. This completely bypasses the in-game browser.
  • Alternative Connection: If possible, test your connection using a Mobile Hotspot. If servers appear on the hotspot but not your Wi-Fi, your ISP is likely blocking the game's port.

Known Issue 6 - Black/Green Screen Artifacts (PS5/Xbox) [Show/Hide]

Status: Post-Processing Desync

The Issue: Flickering colors often occur when switching between 1st and 3rd person or during heavy naval combat.

Affected Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S

  • The Fix: Go to Settings > Video and disable Motion Blur and Depth of Field. This stabilizes the rendering stack on console hardware.
  • Xbox Series S Fix: If the game crashes specifically on the Series S, disable High Quality Textures to prevent VRAM overflow.

Known Issue 7 - Reload Animation State Lock [Show/Hide]

Status: Animation Buffer Error

The Issue: Your character has ammunition but refuses to start the reload animation.

Affected Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X|S , PS5

  • The Fix: Quickly open and close the Text Chat (View Button on Xbox / Touchpad on PS5 / Enter on PC). This forces the character's animation state to "Idle," clearing the reload block.

Known Issue 8 - Screen Flickering / Unresponsive When Minimizing (Alt-Tab) [Show/Hide]

Status: Display Mode Conflict

The Issue: This occurs when the game and Windows disagree on how to handle the display buffer during a task switch.

Affected Platforms: PC

  • The Fix:
    • Go to Settings > Video in-game.
    • Set your Window Mode to Borderless Window. This is the most stable setting for 2026; it allows for instant Alt-Tabbing without desyncing the GPU or getting stuck on a black screen.
    • Disable Overlays: Flickering is frequently caused by the Discord Overlay or Steam Overlay fighting for control of the window. Disable these in their respective app settings.
    • Windows 11/12 Fix: Ensure "Optimizations for windowed games" is Enabled in your Windows System Settings (Settings > System > Display > Graphics > Change default graphics settings).

Known Issue 9 - Level 1 / Rank Progress Reset [Show/Hide]

Status: Cloud-Sync Dela

The Issue: Your rank appears as Level 1 despite previous progress.

Affected Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X|S , PS5

  • The Fix: This is a visual desync where the client fails to fetch your profile. Do not reinstall. Join an Official Server and play for one full round. The server will force-fetch your data and restore your rank at the end of the match.

Known Issue 10 - Stuck on Map Loading Screen [Show/Hide]

Status: Asset Loading Desync

The Issue: The game reaches 90-100% on the loading bar but never enters the spawn menu.

Affected Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X|S , PS5

  • The Fix PC: This is usually caused by a single corrupted map asset. Go to Steam > Right-click Holdfast > Properties > Installed Files > Verify Integrity of Game Files.
  • The Fix Console: On PS5 and Xbox, ensure the game is installed on the Internal SSD. Running Holdfast from an external HDD will cause "Infinite Loading" or "Map Hangs" due to slow read speeds.
  • The Fix Xbox: If stuck on a load screen, go to Network Settings > Advanced Settings > Alternate MAC Address > Clear. This restarts the console and flushes the temporary data that causes map desyncs.

Known Issue 11 - Fatal Crash on Startup (Citrix Workspace Conflict) [Show/Hide]


Status: Software Conflict (Citrix Indirect Display Adapter)

The Cause: If you use Citrix Workspace for work, it installs a virtual display driver that frequently causes Unity games to crash immediately upon initialization.

Affected Platforms: PC

  • The Fix:

Phase 1. To confirm this is the cause, check your error log:

  1. Press Win + R, type %localappdata%low, and navigate to Anvil Game Studio > Holdfast NaW.
  2. Open Player.log. If you see "GfxDevice: creating device client; threaded=1" followed immediately by "Crash!!!", Citrix is the culprit.

Phase 2. You do not need to uninstall Citrix. Try these steps in order:

  • Option A: Disable the Virtual Adapter (Recommended):
    1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
    2. Expand Display adapters.
    3. Right-click Citrix Indirect Display Adapter and select Disable device.
    4. You can now launch Holdfast. Note: You may need to re-enable this later for your work remote desktop to function.
  • Option B: Disable the Bus Enumerator:
    1. In Device Manager, expand System devices.
    2. Locate Citrix Virtual Bus Enumerator.
    3. Right-click and select Disable device. This often resolves the crash without needing to touch the display drivers.
  • Option C: The Windows Store Version:
    1. Uninstall your current Citrix Workspace app.
    2. Download the Citrix Workspace app directly from the Microsoft Store.
    3. The Store version uses a different driver architecture that does not conflict with the Unity engine in 2026.

Known Issue 12 - Fatal Crash on Startup (Virtual Desktop & VR Drivers) [Show/Hide]

Status: GPU Initialization Conflict

The Issue: Users of Virtual Desktop, Meta Quest Link, or Pico Connect may experience an instant crash upon launching the game.

The Cause: The game engine attempts to initialize on the "Virtual Monitor" created by your VR software rather than your physical GPU.

Affected Platforms: PC

  • The Fix:

Phase 1. You do not need to uninstall your VR software. Try these steps in order:

  • Option A: Disable the Virtual Monitor (Recommended):
    1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
    2. Expand Display adapters.
    3. Look for Virtual Desktop Monitor, Meta Quest Link Display, or Pico Virtual Display.
    4. Right-click and select Disable device.
    5. Launch Holdfast. You can safely re-enable the driver once you are done playing.
  • Option B: Power Cycle the Streamer:
    • Ensure your VR Streamer app (on your PC) is completely closed and not just minimized to the system tray before launching Holdfast. If the streamer is active, it "claims" the display buffer, preventing Holdfast from opening in Fullscreen mode.
  • Option C: Disable "HAGS" (Windows 11/12):
    • Hardware-Accelerated GPU Scheduling (HAGS) is known to cause fatal conflicts between Unity and VR drivers.
    • Go to Settings > System > Display > Graphics > Change default graphics settings and toggle Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling to Off. Restart your PC and try launching the game again.

Phase 2. Identifying the Conflict in Logs

If you aren't sure if a VR driver is the cause:

  1. Open your Player.log in %localappdata%low\Anvil Game Studio\Holdfast NaW\.
  2. Look for the line: GfxDevice: creating device client; threaded=1.
  3. If the very next line is Crash!!! or Device Lost, an active virtual display driver (VR or Citrix) is almost certainly the cause.

Known Issue 13 - Cannot Join Modded Server (Connection/Download Error) [Show/Hide]

Status: Workshop Handshake & Sync Conflict

The Cause: The client and server cannot synchronize the required modification files.

Affected Platforms: PC

  • The Fix:

Phase 1. In Steam, go to Settings > Downloads > Clear Download Cache. Steam will restart. This forces the client to re-check all modlist.txt requirements for Holdfast.

Phase 2. Close Holdfast and Steam. Navigate to: Steam\userdata\[YourSteamID]\ugc\workshop. Delete the subscriptions.vdf file. Relaunch Steam; this forces a full re-sync of every mod you are subscribed to, fixing 99% of "Version Mismatch" errors.

Phase 3. If a specific mod is stuck, go to Steam\steamapps\workshop\content\589290 and delete the contents. Steam will re-download the clean versions next time you try to join a modded server.

Known Issue 14 - No Main Menu (Camera Stuck on Cannon/Howitzer Background) [Show/Hide]

Status: UI Layer Initialization Error

The Cause: The game loads the background scene, but the buttons (Join Game, Armoury, Settings) never appear.

Affected Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X|S , PS5

  • The Fix:

Option A: The Configuration Reset (PC):

  1. Close the game.
  2. Press Win + R, type %localappdata%low, and navigate to Anvil Game Studio > Holdfast NaW.
  3. Delete the file named HoldfastOptions.ini.
  4. Relaunch the game. The engine will generate a fresh, default configuration file, which forces the UI layer to re-anchor to your current resolution.

Option B: UI Safe-Mode (PC):

  • If the menu is still missing, go to Steam > Right-click Holdfast > Properties.
  • In Launch Options, type: -screen-width 1920 -screen-height 1080.
  • This forces a standard aspect ratio that often "pops" the UI back into the visible frame if it was bugged by an ultrawide or custom resolution.

Option C: Language Sync Fix (Console):

  • On Xbox and PS5, this is often caused by a mismatch between the console's system language and the game's supported localization. Ensure your console language is set to English (US or UK) as a test to see if the menu returns.

Known Issue 15 - Microphone Not Working (VOIP / Proximity Chat) [Show/Hide]

Status: Audio Device Handshake / OS Privacy Conflict

The Cause: This occurs when the game cannot claim the "Exclusive Mode" of your microphone or is being blocked by system-level privacy settings.

Affected Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5

  • The Fix PC:

Privacy Toggle: Go to Windows Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone. Ensure "Microphone Access" is ON and specifically that "Let desktop apps access your microphone" is toggled ON for Holdfast.

The IPv6 Fix: A specific bug in the 3.X engine's Vivox integration causes VOIP to fail on certain routers using IPv6.

  1. Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings.
  2. Right-click your connection > Properties.
  3. Uncheck "Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6)". Click OK and relaunch.

Exclusive Mode: Press Win + R, type mmsys.cpl. Under the Recording tab, right-click your mic > Properties > Advanced. Uncheck "Allow applications to take exclusive control of this device".

  • The Fix Console:

Party Chat Conflict: If you are in a PlayStation or Xbox Party, the game’s Push-to-Talk (PTT) will be muted by the OS. You must switch to Game Chat in your console's Quick Menu.

PTT Indicator: On console, Holdfast uses Push-to-Talk only. Hold Y (Xbox) or Triangle (PS5). If the microphone icon does not appear above your health bar, your mic is not being detected at the hardware level.

Alternate MAC Address (Xbox): If your mic works in other games but not Holdfast, go to Settings > Network > Advanced > Alternate MAC Address > Clear. This clears the network cache associated with the VOIP handshake.

Known Issue 16 - Game Stuck on Map Load [Show/Hide]

Status: Asset Synchronization or Network Timeout

The Cause: This occurs when the client fails to download the final map metadata or cannot handshake with the server's instance after the map has loaded.

Affected Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5

  • The Fix PC:

Verify Workshop Integrity: Map loading freezes are almost always caused by a corrupted map file (especially on modded servers).

  1. Close Holdfast.
  2. Go to Steam > Right-click Holdfast > Properties > Installed Files > Verify Integrity of Game Files.

SSD Requirement: If the game is installed on an older HDD, the engine may timeout during asset decryption. Moving the game to an SSD is the primary fix for "Infinite Loading."

The VPN Toggle: While old advice said "Disable it," 2026 routing is complex. If you are stuck on a load screen:

  1. If VPN is OFF: Try turning it ON to a different region to bypass an ISP routing bottleneck.
  2. If VPN is ON: Turn it OFF, as some VPNs block the specific UDP ports (7777-7780) used for the final server handshake.
  • The Fix Console:

The Quick Resume Bug (Xbox): This is the #1 cause of stuck loading screens on Xbox. Never use Quick Resume for Holdfast. Always highlight the game tile > Menu Button > Quit, then relaunch.

Alternate MAC Address (Xbox): If stuck at 99%, go to Settings > Network Settings > Advanced Settings > Alternate MAC Address > Clear. This clears the temporary network cache that often holds a "stale" connection to the previous map.

Rebuild Database (PS5): If certain maps (like Palisade) always freeze, boot your PS5 into Safe Mode (hold power for 2 beeps) and select Option 5: Clear Cache and Rebuild Database.

  • The Fix PC/Console: DNS Handshake
  1. If you are stuck on the loading screen only when joining Official Servers, your ISP is likely failing to resolve the AGS API.
  2. Change your Primary DNS to 8.8.8.8 and Secondary to 1.1.1.1.

Known Issue 17 - Reginald 'One Eyed' Fitzgerald Head Not Unlocking [Show/Hide]

Status: Legacy Method Deprecated (Switch to Code Challenge)

The Cause: As of the 3.X build, rewards are no longer tracked by local Discord app detection. You must now manually link your game profile to your Discord account via the in-game Armoury.

Affected Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5

  • The Fix:

Join the Discord: If you haven't already, join the Official Holdfast Discord.

Generate Your Code: Open Holdfast and navigate to Armoury > Social. Click the Link Discord button. The game will provide you with a unique Challenge Code.

Bot Verification: Go to the Official Holdfast Discord and find the #link-game-profile channel. Follow the instructions.

Claim Reward: Once the bot confirms the link, return to the in-game Armoury.

Steam Related Issues

Steam Known Issue 1 - Steam Content File Locked / Write Error [Show/Hide]

Status: File Permission Conflict

The Cause: This occurs when Windows or an overzealous Anti-Virus prevents Steam from modifying the game's executable after a patch.

Affected Platforms: PC

  • The Fix:

Phase 1: Restart your PC: This is the most effective way to clear a "locked" file state.

Phase 2: Clear Download Cache: In Steam, go to Settings > Downloads > Clear Download Cache.

Phase 3. Run as Admin: Right-click the Steam Shortcut on your desktop > Properties > Compatibility > Check "Run this program as an administrator".

Game Tips

Game Tip 1 - Orbit Camera (Look Around) Not Working [Show/Hide]

Status: Updated for Cross-Platform

The Cause: If the tilde ~ key is unresponsive, it is likely due to a regional keyboard conflict (common with UK/EU layouts).

Affected Platforms: PC

  • The Fix: Go to Settings > Keys and rebind Orbit Camera to Left Alt or Caps Lock.

Game Tip 2 - Auto Bayonet Switch (Melee Conflict) [Show/Hide]

Status: Highly Recommended for Competitive Play

The Cause: If you find yourself accidentally stabbing when you meant to fire, the "Auto Bayonet Switch" is likely active.

  • The Fix: Go to Settings > Game > search for "Auto Switch Bayonet" and set it to OFF.

Game Tip 3 - Melee Fluidity & "Smooth" vs. "Raw" Input [Show/Hide]

Status: Engine Feature

The Cause: If melee feels "stiff" or "restrictive," it is often due to the new Melee Sensitivity Type introduced in the 3.X engine.

  • The Fix:
  1. Go to Settings > Game > Advanced Settings.
  2. Look for Melee Sensitivity Type.
  3. Raw: Best for "Spinners" and high-level players. It removes all camera smoothing.
  4. Smooth (Legacy): Better for beginners who find the camera too jittery during 4-directional blocking.

Sensitivity Tip: Set your Melee Combat Sensitivity to at least 2.0 (PC) or 2.2 (Console) to remain competitive in 360-degree combat.

Game Tip 4 - Recording & Shadowplay (NVIDIA App) [Show/Hide]


Status: Parameter Update Warning

The Cause: Do NOT use -window-mode exclusive This parameter causes the game to crash when Alt-Tabbing and interferes with NVIDIA Reflex.

Affected Platforms: PC

  • The Fix:
  1. Set the game to Borderless Window in the video settings.
  2. Open the NVIDIA App (formerly Geforce Experience) and ensure "Desktop Capture" is enabled in the Privacy settings.
  3. The NVIDIA App recognizes Holdfast’s 3.X engine natively; if it fails to record, simply Verify Integrity of Game Files to refresh the API handshake.

Game Tip 5 - Stuttering, G-Sync, and NVIDIA Reflex [Show/Hide]

Status: Standard V-Sync

The Cause: Considered a secondary fix for the smoothest experience

Affected Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5

  • The Fix PC (NVIDIA):
  1. Enable NVIDIA Reflex (On + Boost) in the Video settings. This automatically caps your FPS and minimizes input lag better than V-Sync.
  2. Disable in-game VSYNC.
  • The Fix PC (AMD): Enable Radeon Anti-Lag+ and set a frame cap 3 FPS below your monitor's refresh rate.
  • The Fix Console: Go to Settings > Video and toggle Performance Mode. This targets 60 FPS (up to 120 FPS on supported displays) by dynamically scaling resolution.

Server Side Issues

Known Issue (Server) - Your Server Is Experiencing Latency Issues [Show/Hide]

Take note of the following points if the server you are hosting is experiencing latency issues.

The documentation for hosting a server can be found down below.

Host Your Own Game Server! - Documentation

Take note of the following:

  1. Make sure that your CPU has a core speed of at least 3.6 GHz and that you’re not exceeding your bandwidth. You should also run your game server on a single physical and logical core.
  2. Make sure that your server box's 'Power Options' are set to High Performance on Windows. By default, this is set to 'Balanced'. Please change this!
  3. Make sure that you have the latest Windows updates installed on your machine. This is very important.
  4. Make sure that you follow the folder structure as defined in the documentation. Copy over the ‘holdfast_naw_public_servers’ folder over to your root drive then include the contents of the game from Steam in the ‘holdfast_naw_public_server’ folder.
  5. Make sure that you port forward the game ports from your firewall and router, (outbound and inbound), on UDP.
  6. Don’t rename the ‘Holdfast NaW.exe’ executable.
  7. Don’t switch between Naval and Army based game modes.
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