Large modpacks require massive amounts of data exchange during the "Joining" phase. If your connection or the server's connection dips, the handshake times out silently.
: Even small differences in mod versions or the tModLoader build itself can prevent the final "Joining" phase from succeeding. Troubleshooting the "Stuck" Screen
If you are perpetually stuck on this screen, the community recommends the following fixes: Stuck on Syncing Mods Screen when joining friends
A: Yes. tModLoader will try to auto-sync, but to avoid the "Reload Complete" freeze, everyone should manually install the exact same mods and versions before hitting "Join." reload complete joining tmodloader
These errors will often name the specific mod causing the crash. Once identified, disable that mod and report the issue to the mod author.
: Some users report that joining through the Steam Friends List bypasses the "reload loop" that occurs when joining via IP.
Terraria is a 32-bit application by default. Even with tModLoader’s 64-bit branch, mods like Calamity , Thorium , Spirit , Star above , and large texture packs can consume 8GB+ of RAM. When the game says "reload complete," it has filled your RAM. The "joining" step requires a burst of memory to spawn entities and generate world assets. If there’s no room, the game freezes. Large modpacks require massive amounts of data exchange
Right-click in your Steam Library and select Properties . Under the General tab, find the Launch Options text box. Type -high to force your CPU to prioritize the game.
: Instead of joining through the in-game "Join via IP" or server list, exit the game completely. Have your friend invite you via the Steam Friends List or right-click their name and select Join Game while tModLoader is closed.
I exhaled—a breath I didn’t know I’d been holding. Troubleshooting the "Stuck" Screen If you are perpetually
If a mod failed to download properly, it might be corrupted. Go to Documents\My Games\Terraria\tModLoader\Mods .
Alternative Steam path: ...\Steam\steamapps\common\tModLoader\ModLoader\Mods Open the Mods folder.