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Contents hide Tip What is the ‘join failed because you are on a different version’ error in MW3? Fixes for MW3 join failed error on all platforms Steam Battle.net PS4 and PS5 Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S What should you do if MW3 crossplay is not working MW3 ‘join failed because you are on a different version’ FAQ

Sometimes, you’ll see the MW3 ‘join failed because you are on a different version’ error. Many players have faced this message, particularly those looking to play with friends on other platforms. Read on to learn how you can resolve this issue quickly.

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Tip

Be sure to check your game’s version. If you’re not on the right version, i.e. the latest update, you can’t play the game properly. This is the root of this issue more often than not, so be sure to check your update status and install to prevent this error.

What is the ‘join failed because you are on a different version’ error in MW3?

Ensuring that your device has the latest version of MW3 installed can help fix the ‘join failed because you are on a different version’ problem. This can resolve the issue of MW3 crossplay not working for some players. It’s also known as the 14515 error. This usually happens only if a new patch is out on all platforms.

Players on Reddit believed this issue was due to some crossplay issues, forcing them to play against those only on the same platform. A CODUpdates post on X (formerly Twitter) notes a similar issue in the past.

These are the causes for this error in MW3:

  • Your device copy of MW3 does not have the latest patch.
  • You are launching an outdated game copy compared to your friends, especially if they’re on other platforms.
  • Background updates stalled due to an iffy internet connection, leaving files mismatched.

Fixes for MW3 join failed error on all platforms

Download the latest update for your platform and you should be able to resolve this error. Also try relaunching MW3 first and restart your launcher before searching for updates as this may trigger the process automatically. Use Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, head to the Processes tab, and select ‘End task’ for Steam or Battle.net.

Otherwise, you’ll have to force refresh the game to get updates. We’ve listed down how to rejoin your squad by doing a manual update to fix game version inconsistencies across all platforms.

Steam

Here’s how you can look for the latest PC update on Steam:

  • Open Steam on your PC and head to the Steam library in your profile.
  • Right-click the game and head to its properties. Then, select ‘Local Files.’
  • Next, click the ‘verify integrity of game files’ option. This will take a few minutes and download any extra files if needed to fix this version error for Steam users.

Battle.net

And here’s what Battle.net players can do for the latest patch update in MW3:

  • Go to the games tab and select Modern Warfare 3.
  • Press the gear (or cogwheel) icon near the play button and select ‘check for updates.’
  • This will download any extra files if you’re on an outdated version.

PS4 and PS5

PlayStation players can use this to update MW3:

  • Press the options button while having the game selected on the home screen.
  • Then select ‘check for update.’ This will let you update Modern Warfare 3.

Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S

As for team Xbox, here’s how to get an MW3 update:

  • Head to your home screen and select MW3.
  • Now press the menu button on your Xbox controller. It’s the three-bar button.
  • Select ‘manage game and add-ons.’ This will take you to another menu where you should select ‘Updates.’
  • You’ll have an option to update here by selecting ‘Update All > Update.’

What should you do if MW3 crossplay is not working

Players on Battle.net were only been able to play with other Battle.net gamers when this issue was rampant. The developers had advised sticking to the same platform without switching. Doing so reset some customizations in gear and settings for some players. There’s a good chance it’s a server-side issue so waiting for a fix is your best bet.

MW3 ‘join failed because you are on a different version’ FAQ

Can you play other modes if crossplay is turned off in MW3?

Yes, multiplayer is functional among players of the same platform.

Will crossplay lead to a disadvantage in MW3?

No, console players and controller users are great at the game thanks to aim assist.

About the Author

Antony Terence

Antony Terence is a Guides Writer for VideoGamer. While he is particularly fond of city-builders, shooters, and strategy titles, he won’t turn down a good JRPG or a turn-based roguelike.

Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 (2023)

  • Platform(s): PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series S/X, Xbox Series X
  • Genre(s): Action, Shooter

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