Project Zomboid adds climbable ladders and crowbars
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Build 42.22 enters Pre-Release with usable ladders and forced entry; Stable remains on 42.21 while the studio tests the update for at least a week.
Project Zomboid Build 42.22 entered the new Pre-Release branch on October 28, adding climbable ladders placed around the map and a new use for crowbars: attempting to force open locked windows, doors, and gates. The Indie Stone replaced the former Unstable branch with Pre-Release, while the Stable version remains 42.21. The studio plans to keep each build in testing for at least one week before deciding whether it is ready for a wider release.
Ladders become usable parts of the map
Until now, a ladder placed in the environment was not necessarily a route players could use. In 42.22, players can interact with placed ladders by pressing E. The developers point to the Rosewood Fire Station and note that ladders are spread throughout Knox Country. The feature can open routes to upper floors and change how players explore buildings.
The studio calls this the first “rung” of the implementation and has asked Pre-Release players to test structures across the map. Because the build is still being vetted, ladder behavior may be adjusted. Climbing does not make an area automatically safe: players still need to watch for nearby zombies and plan how they will get back down.
Crowbars can force open some locked entrances
A right-click context menu now lets players use a crowbar to force open locked windows, doors, garage doors, and gates. The tool is no longer limited to combat and dismantling certain objects; it becomes another way to enter a building when the key is missing. The feature does not work on every barrier: security doors and jail-cell doors are excluded.
Success also depends on the character. The Burglar profession gets an advantage and works more efficiently and quietly, while Strength affects the attempt as well. Each failed effort to force a door raises the chance of damaging the crowbar. The feature is not a guaranteed, cost-free way inside: repeated attempts can wear out a useful tool and add risk in an area with zombies.
“For the average player, absolutely nothing.”
How to try Build 42.22 on Steam
To try the new features, open Project Zomboid’s properties in the Steam library and choose “Pre-Release” under “Game Versions & Betas.” The official recommendation is to back up saves before switching branches. The studio does not guarantee that a save started in the test branch will keep working or remain compatible with the eventual Stable release.
- In the Steam library, right-click the game and open “Properties.”
- Under “Game Versions & Betas,” select “Pre-Release.”
- Use a separate save or copy any file you want to preserve.
Players who want to protect a long-running campaign can stay on Stable 42.21, which remains the default option. Build 42.22 has not been announced as a Stable update; it is available to players willing to test a build that may still change. Follow the games news section at O Santuário Geek for further coverage.
At least one week of testing, with no guaranteed date
The move from Unstable to Pre-Release is intended to reduce confusion caused by the old name and make the release path clearer. The announced plan is to publish each update in Pre-Release first, gather feedback from players, modders, and server administrators, and then move it to Stable. The studio intends to keep a build in testing for at least one week.
That minimum is not a confirmed release date for Stable. If testing uncovers problems that need another revision, the team may adjust the update and extend the test period. The Indie Stone also says urgent fixes may go directly to Stable. The schedule therefore depends on the outcome of testing, not only on the minimum time announced.
The change gives server administrators and mod creators a chance to assess new features before wider distribution, but it also means paying attention to studio announcements. Bug reports may lead to revised builds. Players can choose between testing with a protected save or waiting until the process is complete on the default version.
Fixes also cover animals and multiplayer
Build 42.22’s notes include changes beyond ladders and crowbars. Rendering for very large trees has been refined while driving and aiming. Characters can now push while carrying items in both hands, but must drop the items that prevent the action. Sleeping is blocked when the Bad Smell moodle is present, and ammunition boxes can be opened while walking.
The team fixed issues that could kill animals when an area unloaded, leave rabbit kits without food because of milk-production problems, or make chickens disappear from full hutches. Multiplayer highlights include fixes for character duplication, PvP damage being calculated server-side, and crashes related to moving between areas. Trailers, map-item notes, and the “All Known on Start” option also received adjustments.
The developers describe these as highlights from a larger list that also includes other improvements and anti-cheat changes. Build 42.22 can be tested now, but remains in Pre-Release; it will reach Stable only after testing and any necessary revisions. See the portal’s games analysis and explainers as well.
Details on features, save compatibility, and the schedule are in The Indie Stone’s official announcement.
