Join Code Troubleshooting
A Join Code is the official fallback when a friend's hosted game does not appear automatically. Start with the current code and the simplest checks before rebuilding the whole session.
Where the host finds the code
- Before starting, the host can read the unique code in the corner of the host menu.
- After the session begins, the host can open the in-game menu and choose Session Details to find it again.
- The official FAQ says a new short, unique code is generated each time the host starts a session, so share the code for the session that is actually running.
How a friend joins
- If both players are friends on the same platform service, the hosted game should normally appear in the active friend-games list.
- If the session is missing, ask the host for the current Join Code and use the code path instead.
- The Mac App Store version does not use Game Center for the friend-games list, so the official FAQ directs those players to Join Codes.
If the code does not work
- Confirm the host is still in the session that generated the code and resend it without extra spaces.
- Check that both players are on the current game version and that the joining player has working online access.
- If the friend list is the only part failing, use the Join Code before recreating the session.
- If a fresh host session also fails, record the platforms, exact message, and time, then contact official support instead of repeatedly guessing.
Keep private sessions private
Treat a Join Code like a temporary invitation. Share it only with the intended group. Password behavior and moderation controls are separate from the Join Code itself and should be checked in Session Details and the current official FAQ.
Sources and evidence boundary
- official Big Walk FAQJoin Code generation, menu locations, friend-list behavior, and the Mac App Store exception are stated in the official FAQ; the ordered diagnostic checklist is editorial.
Last verified: 2026-08-06