Aliens vs Predator 2
MASTER SERVER PATCH — FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Aliens vs. Predator 2 Master Server Patch (MSP)?
The MSP is an unofficial patch created by the AvP2 community (not Monolith) that restores online multiplayer by replacing the original master server functionality.
Q: Who hosts the Aliens vs. Predator 2 master server?
We do! AVPUNKNOWN is the current provider of the Aliens vs. Predator 2 master server for the foreseeable future. If you’d like to contribute to server costs, we gratefully accept donations.
Q: What is the history of the Master Server Patch (MSP)?
The original multiplayer master server was shut down by Activision during the purchase of Sierra. The MSP was first created by Herr Alien and The One of LithFAQ around 2008. At the time it was called the “Savior Mod,” intended to keep AvP2 online. After LithFAQ closed, AVPUNKNOWN hosted the download (circa 2009), and the master server used GameSpy for matchmaking until GameSpy shut down in 2014.

After a brief period without a master server, development transitioned to TBBC, and the Savior Mod was renamed the Master Server Patch. TBBC hosted the master server and the MSP until transferring them to Rommie in 2018. Following community concerns, hosting and stewardship moved to the AvP2MSP team (Smith, DT, and Ayleia), with Smith hosting the master server from 2018–2019. AVPUNKNOWN promoted the effort and later became the current hosting solution. The MSP remains under active development; current developers include TBBC, Ayleia, and The One.
Q: Where is the official Master Server Patch site?
Here: AVPUNKNOWN’s Official MSP Site. It was originally cleared by Herr Alien and The One and remains the most recognized hub for AvP2 online information and files.
Q: Does Primal Hunt have a Master Server Patch?
Yes. Visit the Downloads page and grab the Primal Hunt Master Server Patch.
Q: What is the error “world version is different from the server”?
This can be caused by the server using a map pack (e.g., UMP2/3) or mods.
Q: I’m having lots of problems with AvP2 — is there tech support or a guide?
Yes. Start with the KingKenny's Ultimate Guide for Getting AvP2 and Primal Hunt Working on Your Computer! — it covers common errors, crashes, and fixes. You can also ask for help in the community’s AvP2 Discord.
Q: Why can I host a server but not join my own server?
This is usually caused by having different REZ files specified on the command lines for the game server and game client. The client command line is visible via AvP2.exe → Options. The server’s REZ files are specified in customrez.txt. Make sure both match.
Q: Any news on Linux support for this patch?
Unfortunately, we did not succeed in building the required binaries for Linux. (but you can host servers via wine)
Q: How about Mac support?
Mac support is unlikely at this time due to missing tools (compiler) and lack of hardware. (But via wine is possible)
Q: I get the error “could not write avp2p5.rez” when installing the patch. How do I fix this?
Run the installer as an administrator.
Q: Is the MSP compatible with the Bunny Server Mod?
Yes. Install the Bunny Mod first, then install the MSP (including the dedicated server from the patch). Add avp2p5.rez to customrez.txt and you’re good to go.
Q: Is the MSP compatible with the TBBC/SGB Server App?
Yes. Our own servers (e.g., WWW.AVPUNKNOWN.COM - TDM) use it—it provides excellent security.
Q: I’m experiencing strange crashes or black screens why?
Several users have reported this issue in the past, and it can still occur today. A proven solution is to download the dlinput file and place it in your AVP2 directory/folder. After doing so, launch the game and check if the issue is resolved. This method has consistently worked as a reliable fix in the past. dlinput Download.
Q: I’m experiencing a bug or have a question not covered here. Where can I report it or ask?
You can post in the AVPUNKNOWN MSP Thread on our forums, or ask directly in the official Aliens vs. Predator 2 Community Discord.