Project Zomboid build 42.21 tackles disappearing hordes and multiplayer bugs
The Indie Stone has released Project Zomboid build 42.21 as an unstable update following the launch of build 42. It fixes zombie hordes vanishing after chunk reloads, duplicate zombies in multiplayer, and visibility problems caused by large trees. The patch also expands anti-cheat, closes safehouse exploits, and addresses Steam authentication and high-ping driving issues, while the developer aims to speed up stable releases.
Build 42.21 follows two months after Project Zomboid’s major build 42 launch and arrives on the unstable branch. It targets post-overhaul issues: hordes vanishing after chunk reloads, duplicate multiplayer zombies, and large trees blocking sightlines. Multiplayer safeguards now cover new cheats, safehouse exploits, Steam authentication, and high-ping driving.
Other changes make 86 more containers usable for water purification, give Welders correct starting recipes, let washing machines clean rags and bandages, fix bag refrigeration, and improve split-screen sharing, fishing, and vehicle crashes. Existing 42.20.4 saves should work, though backups are advised. The studio intends unstable testing to precede stable releases.
For Project Zomboid’s player base, build 42.21 may restore confidence after a major overhaul, especially for multiplayer groups and server operators dealing with cheats, exploits, and sync problems. Smoother split-screen and high-ping driving could make co-op sessions less frustrating, while the promised faster stable cadence may shape expectations for other early-access titles. The impact is likely limited to the game’s community, but it could influence how players judge the reliability of long-running indie updates.