Fallout 76, Bethesda's popular multiplayer survival RPG, regularly undergoes maintenance to improve performance, fix bugs, and introduce new content. These updates often require taking the servers offline temporarily, which can lead to downtime for players. Understanding the maintenance schedule is crucial for planning gaming sessions and minimizing frustration.
Why Does Fallout 76 Go Down?
Scheduled Maintenance: Bethesda frequently updates the game to enhance gameplay, fix issues, and add new features. These updates typically require server downtime, which is usually announced in advance through Bethesda's official channels.
Technical Issues: Unexpected problems like hardware failures or software bugs can cause temporary disruptions. These issues are typically resolved quickly but can still affect gameplay.
High Player Traffic: During major events or updates, high player traffic can strain the servers, leading to slowdowns or outages.
Historical Maintenance Patterns
Start Time: Most maintenance windows begin at 10:00 am ET, accounting for about 69.7% of previous maintenance sessions.
Duration: For numbered updates, the average downtime is approximately 3 hours and 18 minutes. The shortest recorded maintenance was 1 hour and 34 minutes, while the longest was 6 hours and 42 minutes.
One of the most significant in-game resources in Fallout 76 is Fallout 76 caps, which allow players to purchase essential items, settle debts, or even participate in trading with other players. During periods of maintenance, players have time to plan their in-game finances, including managing their Fallout 76 caps, and strategizing how to spend them effectively once the game is back online. This strategic planning can enhance gameplay by ensuring that players make the most of their resources when the servers are available.
How to Check Server Status
Official Sources: Bethesda's website and social media channels provide real-time updates on server status and maintenance schedules.
Third-Party Tools: Platforms like Downdetector or Outage.Report aggregate user reports to give insights into server status.
Tips for Players
Stay Informed: Follow Bethesda's official announcements to plan your gaming sessions around maintenance windows.
Troubleshoot: Ensure your internet connection and game version are up-to-date before concluding that the game is down.
By understanding the maintenance schedule and staying informed, players can enjoy a smoother Fallout 76 experience and avoid unnecessary downtime.
U4GM - The Ultimate Guide to Co-Op Gameplay in Elden Ring
Jumping into Elden Ring with a friend is one of the most rewarding and chaotic experiences you can have in the Lands Between. From vanquishing towering bosses together to helping each other navigate hidden catacombs, co-op play adds a dynamic and deeply satisfying layer to the already rich solo adventure. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about co-op in Elden Ring, based on both practical tips and personal experience from dozens of hours of multiplayer exploration.
How Co-Op Works in Elden Ring
Co-op in Elden Ring revolves around summoning and being summoned using specific multiplayer items. To start a session, the host uses the Furlcalling Finger Remedy to reveal summon signs. A friend, using the Tarnished’s Furled Finger, can then leave their sign on the ground. Once the sign appears, the host can summon them into their world.
From experience, this system may seem obtuse at first, but it becomes second nature quickly. I vividly remember my first successful summon at Stormveil Castle—we both charged into the courtyard like seasoned warriors, only to be ambushed by birds wielding barrels. We laughed, regrouped, and eventually triumphed. That’s the magic of Elden Ring’s co-op: unexpected chaos followed by triumphant teamwork.
Gear and Preparation Before Joining Co-Op
Before joining your friend’s world, it’s crucial to gear up properly. Equip versatile weapons that can handle both mobs and bosses, and bring healing items. Note that flasks are shared differently in co-op: the host gets full use of their flasks, while summoned players have reduced uses. Communication is key here—coordinate when to fall back and heal.
Having a balanced build is also important. One time, I joined as a sorcerer in a melee-heavy team and found myself cornered too often. Since then, I make sure to carry at least one backup weapon and a decent shield.
Why Elden Ring Runes Matter in Co-Op
Progress in co-op isn’t just about taking down bosses—it’s about collecting resources, and none are more important than Elden Ring Runes. When you help another player defeat a boss, you’re rewarded with a generous sum of runes, which can be used to level up or buy gear. This makes co-op not only fun but a highly effective method for farming.
If you’re looking to accelerate your progress or need a boost after a tough loss, you can also consider using cheap elden ring runes to give yourself a financial cushion. I’ve used this approach myself after losing over 100,000 runes to a misstep in Nokron. While not necessary for everyone, it can save time and reduce frustration.
Co-Op Etiquette: Tips for Being a Good Teammate
To get the most out of co-op, follow some basic etiquette:
Don’t rush ahead: The host may want to explore or farm.
Use gestures: A simple wave or pointing gesture helps with communication when voice chat isn’t available.
Be patient: Some players are still learning or trying to test builds. Helping them improve makes the community stronger.
In one session, I summoned a stranger for the Red Wolf of Radagon fight. They waited silently at the fog gate, buffed both of us before entry, and dodged like a pro. I messaged them after the fight just to say thanks—it’s those small acts of teamwork that make co-op truly shine.
PvP and Invasions During Co-Op
One caveat to co-op is the risk of invasions. If you summon allies, there’s a chance an invader will enter your world. This adds a thrilling layer to co-op, turning your exploration into a battleground. When it happens, stick together, use choke points, and never underestimate a well-timed parry.
One of my most memorable moments came when our group of three was invaded in Caelid. We used the ruins to split and confuse the invader, eventually cornering them near a cliff. Victory felt even sweeter with the added danger.
Final Thoughts: The Heart of Co-Op in Elden Ring
Co-op in Elden Ring isn’t just a feature—it’s an experience. It transforms difficult fights into shared stories, and it fosters a real sense of camaraderie in a world otherwise filled with isolation and dread. Whether you’re farming Elden Ring Runes, experimenting with builds, or using cheap elden ring runes to try out new strategies, co-op offers something for everyone.
From my journey across the Lands Between, I can say with confidence: the path is always better when walked with others. So grab your summoning sign and dive in—your next legendary encounter is just a finger remedy away.