How to fix stuck on Authorizing with Steam errors in Project Zomboid

Learn how to troubleshoot and fix being stuck on Authorizing with Steam errors in Project Zomboid with our comprehensive guide.

Project Zomboid is a popular post-apocalyptic survival game that has gained a dedicated fan base over the years. However, like any game, it is not immune to technical issues. One of the most common problems faced by players is being stuck on the 'Authorizing with Steam' screen. This can be frustrating, especially when all you want to do is jump into the game and start surviving the zombie apocalypse. But fear not, there are some steps you can take to fix this issue and get back to playing.

1. Restart Steam

The first and simplest step to try is restarting Steam. Sometimes, the game can get stuck on the 'Authorizing with Steam' screen due to a glitch or a temporary connection issue. By restarting Steam, you are essentially refreshing the connection and giving it a chance to fix itself.

2. Check your internet connection

Another common reason for getting stuck on the 'Authorizing with Steam' screen is a poor internet connection. Make sure your internet is stable and that there are no outages in your area. You can also try restarting your router to see if that helps.

3. Verify the integrity of game files

Corrupted game files can also cause issues with launching the game. To check if this is the case, right-click on Project Zomboid in your Steam library and select 'Properties.' Then go to the 'Local Files' tab and click on 'Verify Integrity of Game Files.' This will scan your game files and replace any corrupted ones.

4. Run Steam as administrator

Sometimes, Steam needs administrative privileges to function properly. To do this, right-click on the Steam icon and select 'Run as administrator.' Then try launching the game again.

5. Update Steam and Project Zomboid

Make sure both Steam and Project Zomboid are up to date. Outdated software can lead to compatibility issues and cause the game to get stuck on the 'Authorizing with Steam' screen. Check for updates in your Steam library and make sure you have the latest version of Project Zomboid installed.

6. Temporarily disable firewall and antivirus software

Firewalls and antivirus software can sometimes block Steam from connecting to the internet or launching the game. Temporarily disable them and try launching the game again. If it works, make sure to add an exception for Steam and Project Zomboid in your settings before re-enabling your firewall and antivirus.

7. Reinstall the game

If none of the above steps work, you may need to reinstall the game. This will ensure that all game files are fresh and not corrupted. To do this, go to your Steam library, right-click on Project Zomboid, and select 'Uninstall.' Then reinstall the game and try launching it again.

If the issue persists, it's best to contact Steam Support or The Indie Stone (developers of Project Zomboid) for further assistance. They may be able to provide more specific solutions to your problem.

For more Steam-specific fixes, you can also try clearing the Steam Download Cache, refreshing Steam files, and logging in to Steam again. These can sometimes help resolve issues with launching games.

Getting stuck on the 'Authorizing with Steam' screen in Project Zomboid can be frustrating, but it's not an insurmountable problem. By following the steps mentioned above, you should be able to get back to playing the game in no time. And if all else fails, don't hesitate to reach out to Steam Support or The Indie Stone for help. Happy surviving!