For those following the recent development of Version 1.1 update (recently moved to the default branch) is the most significant milestone for the title in 2026. This update introduces full cross-play support, allowing players on different platforms to sail together seamlessly. Key Update Highlights: Version 1.1 Cross-play Integration
Choose your desired branch from the dropdown menu and restart Steam. Patch Notes for Raft - PatchBot
Great question. It's a "beta" because it's a separate, optional branch where players can test features that aren't yet fully stable. The developers themselves describe it as a place where "there could be a few issues". Once the features are confirmed stable, they get merged into the main game branch. Raft v1.1.01 Beta
It is easy to overlook performance patches in favor of flashy content updates, but versions like Raft v1.1.01 Beta are the unsung heroes of survival game longevity. By fixing engine strain, tightening multiplayer synchronization, and cleaning up asset rendering, the developers ensure that your endgame experience remains playable. If you have been struggling with late-game stuttering or multiplayer lag, switching to this build offers a noticeably smoother voyage. To help tailor future survival guides, let me know:
: The development team overhauled how the game handles temporary memory assets. This change significantly reduces the random frame drops and micro-stutters that occur during long play sessions. For those following the recent development of Version 1
The Raft is not a boat. It is a four-meter square of lashed-together plastic barrels and decaying plywood, crowned with a single, rain-fouled solar panel. In the center, bolted to the floorboards, is the Terminal—a waterlogged tablet encased in a salvaged lunchbox. It runs the Beta.
Close the window and wait for Steam to download the update files. Patch Notes for Raft - PatchBot Great question
I press Y.
to see how early beta fixes (like the "ESC" key binding) laid the groundwork for today's release. Check out the Reddit community's "Final Chapter" retrospective