> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.sfsolidsystems.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.sfsolidsystems.com/sf-steam-online-sessions/troubleshooting.md).

# Troubleshooting

Common issues and solutions when working with Unreal Engine Online Subsystem & Steam.

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### ❓ Steam Overlay is not appearing in Play in Editor (PIE)

**Solution:**

* Steam Overlay requires a standalone build or launching via **Play > Standalone Game**.
* Ensure the official desktop Steam client is running on your machine before launching the project.

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### ❓ `CreateSession` or `JoinGameSession` fails silently

**Solution:**

* Always ensure any previous session is cleanly destroyed before creating or joining a new one. Call `DestroySession()` and wait for `OnDestroySessionCompleteEvent` before initiating a new session.
* Ensure the GameMode has `bUseSeamlessTravel = true` and that maps specify `?listen` when hosting.

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### ❓ Sessions cannot be found between two different PCs

**Solution:**

1. If using default `SteamDevAppId=480` (Spacewar), both players **must be in the same download region** in Steam Settings (`Settings > Downloads > Download Region`).
2. Verify both builds share the exact same `ProjectID` parameter in `FSFSteamSessionSettings` and `FSFSteamSearchSettings`.
3. Check Windows Firewall to ensure UDP port 27015 / P2P traffic is not blocked.

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### ❓ `GetSteamAvatar` returns null

**Solution:**

* Ensure the target `PlayerState` has connected via Steam (has a valid `UniqueNetId`).
* Avatars are fetched asynchronously from Steam API servers; the subsystem automatically caches loaded textures to protect against Garbage Collector destruction.