Use a build with the offline update
Update the game while connected before relying on offline play. May discussions saying Epic online services are always required predate the September feature and do not describe the updated mode.
| Way to play | Internet requirement | What the evidence establishes |
|---|---|---|
| Installed updated game, offline mode | Game update allows play without reaching online services. | Official September feature; installed copy and store access still matter. |
| Invite-only or one-player online lobby | Still an online session. | Community hosting method for playing alone. |
| Xbox Cloud Gaming | Requires the streaming service connection. | An Xbox cloud listing is not a downloadable offline copy. |
| Local split-screen | A separate local-multiplayer question. | Offline mode does not announce split-screen support. |
On a small screen, scroll the table sideways to see every column.
For supported installations and services, check the platform guide and split-screen status.
Sources: September 21 official update · Official Steam listing · Official Xbox Cloud listing
Prepare the Steam copy before disconnecting
Update and launch while online
Valve recommends signing in with stored credentials, completing updates and launching the game once to finish any first-run installation. Close the game normally afterward.
Set the Steam client offline
Use Steam’s menu and choose Go Offline. The client must already have the information it needs; this cannot bypass a fresh sign-in requirement.
Launch the updated installed game
The game update allows play when its online services are unavailable. The notes do not document a particular offline button label, so follow the current game prompt rather than looking for an invented menu path.
Check the activity in that local session
Use a short sled run to check entry into gameplay. The announcement does not give an offline-by-activity unlock or minigame matrix; it does not establish that every multiplayer-dependent reward can be earned alone.
When internet is available and you simply want privacy, original players suggest hosting invite-only or limiting the player count to one. Follow the lobby guide for that online method.
Sources: Valve: configuring Steam Offline Mode · September 21 official update · Invite-only hosting discussion
Keep local progress separate from cloud sync
Steam Auto-Cloud synchronises matching local files before launch and after exit when the service can be reached. An offline session cannot upload a cloud copy while disconnected. The game’s retail Windows cloud configuration identifies a local data folder; keep a manual backup before moving between machines.
When reconnecting, inspect Steam’s sync state before starting a second device. If a conflict appears, compare it with your actual last good session instead of choosing a version solely because its timestamp is newer.
The game’s September save-slot picker is separate from Steam’s sync conflict. The offline announcement does not specify a different set of save filenames or promise that every platform achievement tracks offline. Record retained progress in the game before relying on an achievement popup as the only check. For a missing save, use lost-progress recovery.
Sources: Valve: Auto-Cloud paths and synchronisation · Valve: Steam Cloud · Retail App 3438850: Steam Cloud configuration · September 21 official update