📖 GOG DST Survival: Crossplay, Mods & Why You Won't Starve
Don't Starve Together on GOG: The Complete Survival Toolbox
Your comprehensive guide to playing DST via GOG – from multiplayer and mods to technical tips and server setup.
Don't Starve Together (DST) is fully playable in a DRM-free format for those who prefer the GOG platform. While DST isn't sold as a standalone product on GOG's store, owners of Don't Starve on GOG receive access to DST's standalone client (downloadable via Klei) with GOG Galaxy support. This guide serves as a comprehensive toolbox for playing DST via GOG – covering quick fixes for common issues, deep-dive explanations of multiplayer and mods on GOG, and must-have tools for an optimal experience.
Quick Fixes (TL;DR)
Crossplay with Steam Friends
Yes – GOG players can join the same servers as Steam players on PC. To play together, host an online server (set it to Friends Only or Password protected) and have your friends search the server name in the Play Online lobby. Since Steam invites won't work for GOG users, coordinate via chat to share the server name/password or server ID.
LAN Play and Offline Mode
The DST standalone supports offline LAN play. If you and friends are on the same network (or using a VPN to simulate one), one can host a LAN server in offline mode and others can connect via the Host IP. Launching DST without an internet connection will present an offline LAN option.
Installing Mods on GOG
Without Steam Workshop integration, GOG users install mods manually. Quick method: Find the mod's files (from Klei's official forums or via a workshop downloader) and drop them into your DST mods folder. Most mods are compatible across Steam/GOG as long as versions align.
Dedicated Server Fast Setup
Want a 24/7 server for friends? Use the DST Dedicated Server tool (bundled with the game files on the standalone). Generate a server cluster_token on Klei's site (linking your Klei account), configure the cluster.ini and world settings, then launch the dontstarve_dedicated_server_nullrenderer executables.
Controller Support Issues
DST natively supports controllers on PC. On GOG, simply plug in your controller before launching the game for it to be recognized. If you encounter mapping issues, ensure your controller is XInput-compatible. Tools like DS4Windows can help with DualShock controllers.
Version Mismatch or Update Delays
If you get an error joining servers ("Server out of date" or incompatible version), it likely means your GOG DST hasn't updated yet. Quick fix: Use GOG Galaxy to update, or run the Klei Updater. Updates usually hit GOG within hours of Steam releases.
Multiplayer on GOG: LAN, Online Servers, and Crossplay Details
Playing DST on GOG offers the same core multiplayer modes as the Steam edition – with a few quirks. Online play uses Klei's servers and matchmaking, which means GOG and Steam players populate one unified server list.
GOG Player Connection Methods
- Browsing Servers: Use Filters to find your friend's server by name. If it's a friends-only server, the host can set a unique name and share it.
- Direct Connection: Use the console with c_connect(\"IP\", PORT, \"password\") to join a server by IP address.
- LAN Mode: Launch the game offline to host LAN sessions. Great for local co-op without internet.
Crossplay Status
PC crossplay is fully supported – GOG, Steam (and Epic Games Store) all play together. Only consoles remain isolated to their own ecosystems. Klei hasn't implemented PC-console crossplay due to patch parity and mod differences.
DST Crossplay: GOG and Steam players share the same servers, while console players are separated
Mod Support on GOG: Compatibility and Installation
Mods open up DST's gameplay – from new characters to useful UI tweaks – and GOG players can absolutely enjoy mods, albeit with manual management.
Installing Mods on GOG
Find the Mod Files
Many mod creators upload their mods on Klei's Official Forums or provide direct links. You can also use third-party tools like Steam Workshop Downloader sites to fetch the mod by its Workshop ID.
Install to Mods Folder
Locate your DST mods directory. By default, for the standalone version, this is under the game's installation folder. Simply extract the mod files into this folder.
Enable the Mod in-game
Launch DST and go to Mods on the main menu. Your manually installed mod should appear in the list. Enable it and start a server.
Maintain & Update
Keep an eye on mod updates. Steam users get updates automatically; on GOG you'll need to re-download newer versions periodically.
Important Note about Mods
If a mod is marked as "Server Only" on workshop, every player (even Steam users) must manually install it when playing on a GOG-hosted server since there's no workshop sync – coordinate with friends to distribute the mod zip if needed.
Tools and Workarounds
To simplify mod management, consider these options:
- Vortex mod manager (by Nexus Mods) now supports DST, allowing you to manage mods through an easy UI.
- SteamCMD (Steam's command-line tool) to download workshop mods if you know the app ID and mod ID.
- Workshop downloaders like steamworkshopdownloader.io to grab individual mods.
Example of the Vortex mod manager interface for organizing DST mods
Patch Parity and Version Updates
One concern for GOG players in any live-service game is "Will we get updates as fast as Steam?". Klei has mostly delivered timely updates to the DST standalone (GOG) version.
Update Delivery
Klei uses an internal patcher for the standalone; if you launch DST via GOG Galaxy, it will auto-update when an update is available (just like Steam). If you use the offline installer, you'll need to download the latest patch installer from GOG's website when an update drops.
Beta Branches
Steam often gets beta branches (for testing new content). GOG Galaxy technically supports beta channels, but Klei rarely uses this for DST standalone. This means GOG players usually wait for the official release of content.
Potential Delays
On rare occasions, an update might hit Steam first and GOG a bit later the same day. If your Steam friends updated and you haven't got it yet, you'll temporarily be unable to join each other. Patience is key – delays are typically resolved within hours.
Recent Update Timeline
May 2025
v670774 - Bug fixes and small tweaks as Klei works on bigger upcoming content.
February 2025
Walter, Wendy & Wortox Skill Tree Update - Added skill trees for those characters and QoL improvements.
September 2024
"Depths of Duplicity" Update - Major content update expanding caves with new biomes and bosses.
Hosting Servers: Local vs. Cloud
Whether you want a private world for just friends or a public dedicated server running 24/7, DST allows it on GOG. You have two main approaches:
In-Game Listen Server
The simplest method: Host a game directly from the main menu. Your game instance acts as the server while you're playing.
Pros:
- Easy to set up
- No additional software needed
- Works with GOG Galaxy
Cons:
- Only runs while you're playing
- Uses your PC resources
- May require port forwarding
Dedicated Server
Running a dedicated server means the server runs independently of the game client.
Pros:
- Runs 24/7 without you playing
- Better performance for all players
- More configurable
Cons:
- More complex setup
- Requires extra hardware or hosting
- Needs manual configuration
Setting Up a Dedicated Server
Generate a Cluster Token
Go to accounts.klei.com, log in with your Klei account, and create a Server Token. Copy that string into a file named cluster_token.txt.
Create Server Files
On first run, the dedicated server will create a DoNotStarveTogether\MyDediServer folder. Edit the cluster.ini and world settings files to configure server options.
Run the Servers
Launch the dedicated server exe – it will start the Master shard and you'll see a console window running. For caves, you'll need two processes.
Cloud-Hosted Servers
If self-hosting sounds too complex, numerous providers offer DST server hosting:
- Nodecraft
- Don't Starve Together Server by GTX
- Citadel Servers
These servers are platform-agnostic – GOG players can join them just as easily as Steam players.
DST dedicated server console running on a local machine
Technical Differences: GOG vs Steam Builds
For the most part, DST on GOG plays exactly the same as on Steam, but here are a few technical nuances and tips:
| Feature/Aspect | Steam Version | GOG Version |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Separate DST product on Steam store | Free for GOG Don't Starve owners via Klei |
| Crossplay (PC) | Yes (with GOG/Epic on PC) | Yes (plays on same servers as Steam) |
| Mod Support | Steam Workshop integration | Manual mod installation |
| Updates | Via Steam (often immediate) | Via GOG Galaxy or standalone patcher |
| Beta Branches | Frequently available | Rarely available |
| Achievements | None (DST has no achievements) | None |
| Controller Support | Steam Input + native support | Native support (use XInput controllers) |
| Offline Capability | Steam offline mode with some hassle | Fully offline capable for solo/LAN |
File Structure & Saves
The GOG version stores save data in your Documents folder under Klei\DoNotStarveTogether\ just like the Steam version. The only difference is the installation path.
Cloud Sync
Neither version uses cloud saves for DST. Back up manually if you care about your worlds.
Offline Mode Reliability
The GOG edition shines for offline play. You can launch DST without any internet and still play alone or on LAN.
Toolbox: Recommended Tools, Mods, and Resources
This section highlights some popular tools and community-driven mods/tweaks especially useful for GOG players:
Steam Workshop Downloader
Websites like steamworkshopdownloader.io allow you to input a DST mod's Workshop URL or ID and download it as a zip. This saves you from hunting down mirrors.
Vortex Mod Manager
Nexus Mods' Vortex now supports DST. This tool can organize your mods, keep track of what you've installed, and enable/disable mods without messing with folders.
Geometric Placement (Mod)
A hugely popular client-side mod that lets you place structures on a grid. It's a must-have for base builders.
Combined Status
UI mod that shows hunger/health/sanity in a single meter, making survival monitoring easier.
Global Positions (Mod)
If you play with friends and want to see each other on the map (without using the in-game compass item), this mod is popular.
DST Server Scripts
If you plan to run a dedicated server on a Linux machine or always-on PC, check out dstserver scripts on GitHub.
Community Resources
For troubleshooting or tips, check these resources:
- Klei Forums (DST section) - Devs and experienced players often respond
- /r/dontstarvetogether - Active subreddit for game discussion
- Don't Starve Wiki - Comprehensive information about game mechanics
Patch History Summary (Last 18 Months)
Staying updated on DST's development is crucial, especially since knowing patch content helps mod users anticipate breaks or new features. Here's a summary of major updates in the past year and a half:
May 2025 – Interval and Tweaks
v670774 - Bug fixes and small tweaks as Klei works on bigger things. The mod scene remains active, and all signs point to continued parity between Steam and GOG releases moving forward.
Early 2025 – Walter/Wendy/Wortox Skill Update
In February 2025, the Walter, Wendy & Wortox Skill Tree Update was released, adding skill trees for those characters and various Quality of Life improvements. GOG players needed to update to version 657284 to play online.
September 2024 – "Depths of Duplicity" Update
A major free content update that expanded caves with new biomes, added several new bosses (e.g. the Depths Worm), new items like the Gloomerang, and more. It was a hefty patch that hit GOG the same day as Steam.
Summer 2024 – Interval and Tweaks
Smaller patches addressed bug fixes and balance (e.g. Brightsmore's rebalance of shadow magic). Mods like Insight had minor breakages due to code changes but were quickly fixed.
Spring 2024 – From Beyond Finale
Around April 2024, Klei wrapped up the From Beyond story arc with a major boss update. This update also integrated previous beta feedback and rolled all pending character skill trees into the main branch.
Early 2024 – Year of the Dragonfly & New Content
In February 2024, the annual Lunar New Year event, Year of the Dragonfly, launched. Shortly after, the March 2024 QoL Update introduced improvements to inventory management and world settings.
Fall 2023 – QoL and New Characters
By late 2023, updates like "Vitality QOL" improved game performance and balance. The Halloween event (Hallowed Nights) and Winter's Feast 2023 ran with festive changes. Wilson's Rework introduced the first skill tree.
Checking Your Version
If you ever want to check your version on GOG, you can see it in the bottom-left of the main menu. It should match the latest Steam version. As of this writing, the latest release is v670774 (May 22, 2025) – if your GOG game shows that or higher, you're up to date.
Ready to Survive!
With this toolbox of knowledge, you're now prepared to survive and thrive in Don't Starve Together on the GOG platform. Whether you're fending off hounds alongside your Steam friends, customizing your world with mods, or tweaking your dedicated server, the DST experience is fully at your fingertips – no matter where you bought the game.
Now grab that Thulecite Club and show the Constant that GOG players are every bit as resilient. Good luck, and don't starve!