BeamNG.drive is a soft-body physics driving simulator primarily designed for single-player and local multiplayer modded experiences. This paper examines the official multiplayer capabilities, community-driven online solutions, technical limitations, legal and safety considerations, and recommendations for players and developers wanting online play. Conclusions: official persistent online multiplayer is not supported natively; usable online experiences depend on third-party mods and tools that vary in stability, legality, and user experience.
A stable, open-source multiplayer mod that lets you join servers with dozens of players.
Features:
How to set up BeamMP:
Requirements:
Tip: Start on a low-population server to test performance.
The developers of BeamNG (BeamNG GmbH) have stated clearly for years:
"Multiplayer is not a priority. The core physics engine is deterministic but incredibly complex to network without massive performance costs or loss of fidelity."
They are working on a Career Mode (single-player only, as of April 2026) and vehicle customization. There is no official timeline or even a confirmed plan for native multiplayer. The official forums explicitly say "do not buy BeamNG expecting multiplayer." can you play beamng drive online
The most popular server type. Players drive on the East Coast USA or American Road maps. One group cruises; another acts as police with light bars and pit maneuvers. It is part racing sim, part improv theatre.
Since its initial early access release, BeamNG.drive has carved a unique niche in the driving simulation genre. Unlike traditional racing games that utilize rigid-body physics, BeamNG.drive employs a real-time soft-body physics simulation. Every vehicle consists of a network of interconnected nodes and beams; when stress is applied, these structures bend, deform, and break realistically.
While this technology provides a superior single-player experience, it presents significant hurdles for multiplayer integration. As of the current stable build, the developers have not implemented a native multiplayer mode. Consequently, players seeking an online experience must rely on third-party solutions. This paper aims to answer the user query—"Can you play BeamNG.drive online?"—by analyzing the available workarounds and the underlying technology that makes them possible.
If you are reading this, you have probably spent hours sending cars flying off cliffs, crushing them with monster trucks, or perfecting your drifts in BeamNG.drive. It is arguably the best soft-body physics simulator on the market. BeamNG
But there is one thing the game is famous for lacking: a built-in "Play Online" button on the main menu.
So, can you play BeamNG.drive online? The short answer is yes. However, it isn't as simple as clicking a button.
Here is everything you need to know about taking your driving chaos online.