Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 requires players to update their game every so often, but sometimes it’s not so simple. If you’re not sure how to update MW2, then keep reading.

Modern Warfare 2 is finally out, and players have been enjoying it endlessly since day one. However, with a number of bugs arising, Infinity Ward has been hard at work trying to update it.

This means that every so often, you’ll need to install an update so you can get back to playing the game. However, sometimes these don’t download automatically, and you’ll need to do it yourself.

Don’t panic, as if you’re struggling to figure out how, you’re not alone. Fortunately, we’ve got you covered with how to update MW2 on every platform.

How to Update MW2 PS4 & PS5

To update MW2 on PS4 & PS5, just follow these simple instructions:

  • On the homepage, select MW2
  • Press the Options button (Start button)
  • On the drop-down menu, choose Check for Update
  • Wait a short while
  • You will either be given an update to install or be told you have the latest version
PS5 home screen with drop down menu showing how to update games Modern Warfare 2

How to Update MW2 Xbox One & Xbox Series X/S

To update MW2 on Xbox One & Xbox Series X/S, just follow these simple instructions:

  • Find MW2 either on your home screen or under My Games & Apps
  • Press the Menu button (Start button)
  • On the drop-down menu, select Manage Game and Add-Ons
  • In this menu, head to Updates
  • If you can update MW2, an update will be available here
the Xbox Series S update screen

How to Update MW2 Steam

To update MW2 on Steam, just follow these simple instructions:

  • Open your Steam library
  • Right-click on MW2
  • Select Properties…
  • In Properties, go to Local Files
  • Select Verify Integrity of Game Files
  • Wait for the process to be completed
  • If you’re missing any files, they will be added

Outside of this, you can also set updates to be automatic, so you don’t encounter this issue in the future. Here is how you do that:

  • Open your Steam library
  • Right-click on MW2
  • Select Properties…
  • In Properties, go to Updates
  • Under Automatic Updates make sure Always Keep This Game Updated is selected
the Steam updates menu

How to Update MW2 Battle.net

To update MW2 on Battle.net, just follow these simple instructions:

  • Open the Battle.net launcher
  • Select MW2 in your library
  • Click on the cogwheel found next to the “Play” button
  • Select Check for Updates
  • Wait for that process to be completed
Battle.net displaying how to update CoD

How to Fix “Join Failed Because You Are On a Different Version” MW2

To fix the “Join failed because you are on a different version (status: SAVANNAH)” error in MW2, you need to make sure that you and whoever you are trying to play with have updated Modern Warfare 2 to the latest version.

Either you or your friend(s) have an outdated version of MW2, which is why it isn’t letting you play together.

Fortunately, all you need to do is check for updates on whatever platform you’re on. So, just follow the instructions above and you and your friends will be back to playing MW2 together in no time.

the Join Failed Because You Are On a Different Version error in Modern Warfare 2

What Is the “Join Failed Because You Are On a Different Version” Error in MW2?

The “Join failed because you are on a different version” issue in Modern Warfare 2 appears when you are trying to play with another user and one of your games is not updated to the latest version.

You won’t be able to play online without a fully updated copy of MW2 because it’s essentially like trying to play two entirely different games together.

The game treats the updated copy and the not updated copy as two separate versions, hence the “different version” part of the issue.

author
Former Staff Writer
Whether it's an indie platformer or a 100-hour JRPG, Tom loves talking about games. So much so, he made it his career. Since starting in 2020, he's covered a wide range of topics at sites including TheGamer and The Game Crater.