How to Fix Project Zomboid Lag

Project ZomboidProject Zomboid was initially released in 2013 into early access. The developers, The Indie Stone, have continued working on the game ever since. It is a post-apocalyptic zombie survival game. It features a large map that has many in depth mechanics to make the survival feel more realistic. This includes a day and night cycle, resource management, weapon and defense creation, and more. Project Zomboid has online multiplayer servers that are run by players. It also supports local 4 player co-op. Many people like playing with friends on PvP and PvE friendly servers. However, issues arise from problems with lag. Sometimes the game is laggy due to the server failing, but most of the time it is due to your own connection.  In this post we will teach you how to fix lag with a VPN.

How to Fix Lag Spikes in Project Zomboid

Here is the quickest way to improve Project Zomboid lag on PC with a VPN.

  1. Sign up for ExpressVPN (includes a 30-day money back guarantee)
  2. Download the ExpressVPN app and connect to a server in the region you wish to play in.
  3. Test to see if your ping has lowered from your normal response time.
  4. Launch Project Zomboid and enjoy!

You can also use ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer service for a faster experience.

  1. Sign up for ExpressVPN (includes a 30-day money back guarantee)
  2. Log into Expressvpn.com and go to the “DNS Settings” tab.
  3. Click the button to register your IP address.
  4. You can also set dynamic DNS (more technical users)
  5. Click on the “Dashboard” tab
  6. Look for the “Set up on all your devices” section and click on the “see all devices” link.
  7. Click on the set up guide for your system.
  8. Make note of the IP address given in the set up box to the right of the screen.
  9. Set the DNS on your system to the IP given on the ExpressVPN site.

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Why Does Project Zomboid Lag?

The popularity of Project Zomboid is both a blessing and a curse. As we mentioned, you will playing with users with differing Internet connection speeds. If you have performance issues when using the Internet in general then you can expect lag spikes when playing Project Zomboid. The two main considerations for lag are your Internet speed and hardware. PC gamers will want to focus on CPU, memory, and graphics card. Everyone needs a fast Internet connection.

More Tips to Fix Lag Spikes in Project Zomboid

One of the best ways to decrease laggy gameplay is to increase internet speed. The best way to do this for PC players is to switch to a LAN connection if available. It will typically provide faster and more stable speeds than WiFi. Another suggestion we have for increasing speed involves the amount of applications you have open. There are many programs your computer may be running in the background that are unnecessary. Minimizing the amount of things open on your computer will help it focus more processing power towards your game. Often your slow speeds are due to having too many applications open. You can also try switching the time you get on certain servers. Some games do have server issues especially during prime times. Changing up when you play could improve your experience and reduce lag.

We recommend testing a VPN to improve ping and reduce your lag. The key is to find a better route between your system and the game server. Your ISP isn’t focused on this issue as much as VPN providers. They know that it’s a competitive advantage if they can offer you a faster router to key locations. Most of the game developers host regional game servers in the same locations. This allows VPNs to offer better routes and will give you a boost in performance.

Project Zomboid Server Locations

The Indie Stone allows players to manage and run servers. Based on this there is an opportunity to get on a server located anywhere in the world. The key when selecting where to connect to is choosing a location close to where your server is hosted. Those playing the co-op version will want to choose a region close to the host. ExpressVPN has servers located throughout the world. We have made recommendations based on where you want to play.

Here are some fast VPN server locations to choose when playing Project Zomboid.

  • United States- Washington DC and Los Angeles
  • Europe- Frankfurt, Amsterdam, and London
  • South America- Brazil
  • Asia Pacific- Sydney and Singapore

System Requirements and Recommendations

This section is mainly for PC gamers. You will want to make sure you have the proper system specs for Project Zomboid. The minimum requirements are often not enough to enjoy the game.

You will want to come above these minimum system specs.

  • Operating system – Windows 10 (64-bit)
  • Processor – Intel 2.77GHz Quad-core or better
  • Video card – 2 GB or better
  • Memory – 8 GB RAM

Here is a little more information on using a VPN for gaming.


How to Play Project Zomboid with ExpressVPN

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ExpressVPN is our pick for best VPN to reduce lag. It will allow you to improve your gaming experience on a variety of devices. You will be able to install an easy to use app for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. PS4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch users can enhance their game play by using the ExpressVPN app on compatible routers or taking advantage of MediaStreamer. The MediaStreamer service is available for all ExpressVPN users and it works on many devices. It allows you to increase your speed even further. However, it does not give you the extra privacy protection a VPN will offer you. ExpressVPN will allow you to make your game faster on many devices.

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We’re excited to share an exclusive discount on ExpressVPN for our readers. You can save up to 49% off a year of VPN and receive an extra 3 months of free VPN. Enjoy unlimited access to both their VPN network and MediaStreamer service. Save on your favorite games and reduce lag. Protect against DDoS attacks and unblock restrictions at school or work. ExpressVPN offers a 30 day money back guarantee so you will have a month to test their VPN and experience all the benefits of the service.

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