How to Fix Borderlands 4 Incompatible Version Error

Borderlands 4 got absolutely hammered at release, and honestly, it deserved some of that criticism. But if you’ve moved past the drama and recently grabbed the game on discount, only to run into the dreaded “Incompatible Version” error, you’re not alone. The message says, “The session you are trying to join is running an incompatible version of the game.” Basically, it means there’s a version mismatch that’s blocking you from joining co-op sessions because you have an incompatible version of the game.

What Causes the “Incompatible Version” Error in Borderlands 4?

Borderlands 4 uses the SHiFT system to deliver hotfixes dynamically. Instead of relying solely on full platform updates through Steam or Epic Games, SHiFT pushes smaller updates or patches while you are in the game. This system can sometimes fail, leading the game to appear fully updated but still mismatched in version. These files are saved in the PersistentDownloadDir folder. If the game fails to download a hotfix correctly (for example, if the download gets stuck at 0%), the update does not complete. This incomplete patch results in a version mismatch error when trying to play co-op.

How to Fix Borderlands 4 Incompatible Version Error

• Make sure all players fully close and restart the game. Do not just return to the main menu.
• Have the host wait at the main menu for 30 to 60 seconds to allow SHiFT hotfixes to download and apply.
• Confirm all players are signed in to their accounts and appear online, not offline or invisible.
• If playing on console, restart the system and check for updates manually again.

Clear the Cache Folder

• Exit the game completely. Also, make sure Steam or other platforms are not running in the background.
• Open File Explorer and navigate to:

• Delete the folders named cache and patch.
• Restart the game and wait a moment on the main menu for the hotfixes to download.
• Try joining or hosting a co-op session again.

Unlink and Relink Your SHiFT Account from Steam

• Visit the official SHiFT website and sign in.
• Go to the Gaming Platforms section.
• Locate Steam and click Unlink.
• Close the game if it’s running.
• Relaunch the game and reconnect your SHiFT account.
• Test co-op connectivity again.

Verify Integrity of Game Files

• Open Steam and navigate to your Library.
• Right-click Borderlands 4 and select Properties.
• Go to the Installed Files tab.
• Click Verify integrity of game files.
• Wait for the process to complete.
• Relaunch the game and try joining co-op.

Reinstall the Game

If all else fails, reinstalling the game can solve persistent configuration or update issues. This process removes all local game files and downloads a fresh installation. Most cloud save systems will preserve your progress, but it’s a good idea to verify that cloud saves are enabled before uninstalling.

• Open Steam and go to your Library.
• Right-click Borderlands 4 and select Manage, then Uninstall.
• After the uninstall finishes, reinstall the game from your library.
• Launch the game, wait briefly at the main menu, then try co-op.