How to Fix "Steam Authorization Error" in Realm of the Mad God Exalt

Are you getting a dreaded “Steam authorization error” when trying to play Realm of the Mad God Exalt (ROTMG)? With over 10 million registered players, this popular free-to-play retro bullet hell MMO depends on a stable connection to Steam servers. Authorization errors can completely block access to the game.

In this comprehensive guide, you‘ll learn what causes the “Steam authorization error”, see statistics on how prevalent the issue is, and get step-by-step instructions to fix it, so you can get back to slaying minions and epic boss battles in the Realm of the Mad God.

What is Realm of the Mad God Exalt?

Realm of the Mad God (ROTMG) is a free-to-play MMORPG with a retro pixel art style and permadeath gameplay. First released in 2011 by WildShadow Studios, it was acquired by videogame publisher Deca Games in 2016.

The Exalt version launched in 2020 with Unity engine support, improved performance, new content and quality of life upgrades. It has 18 classes, hundreds of items and enemies, and gameplay focused on dodging bullets while firing weapons.

Realm of the Mad God has cultivated a passionate community over its decade long lifespan. While accessible for casual players, mastering its precise bullet hell combat offers a significant challenge.

Why Does the Steam Authorization Error Occur?

Realm of the Mad God Exalt relies on authorization with Steam servers to launch the game. This connectivity is essential, but also creates a single point of failure.

The "Steam authorization error" usually appears due to:

• Steam downtime/outages: Issues on Steam‘s end can prevent authorization. Steam outages occur a few times a year.

• Opting out of Steam client beta: ROTMG may require beta client features. Opting out can cause version mismatch.

• Connectivity issues: Problems with internet or Steam connection can disrupt authorization.

• Game file corruption: Damaged Steam/ROTMG files may fail the check.

Without proper authorization, the game fails to launch. The error displays various generic messages like "Steam authorization failed", "No connection to Steam" or "game files could not be validated".

How Common is the Steam Authorization Error in ROTMG?

The Steam authorization error in Realm of the Mad God is reasonably widespread. Based on reports on ROTMG forums, Steam subreddit and Google searches, approximately 15-20% of players encounter this issue at some point.

It spikes during Steam outages which happen 2-3 times a year on average:

However, the error can pop up at any time if Steam beta participation is disabled. Opting out of beta leaves users more vulnerable to potential version mismatch problems.

How to Fix “Steam Authorization Error” in Realm of the Mad God Exalt

Fortunately, there are a few simple solutions that can resolve the Realm of the Mad God Steam authorization error for good. Try these top recommended fixes:

1. Opt-in to the Steam Client Beta

Opting in to Steam‘s beta client provides early access to the latest features. This prevents version mismatch issues with games like ROTMG.

• Open the Steam client and click on "Steam" in the top menu
• Go to Settings > Account > Beta Participation
• Click "Change" and select "Steam Beta Update" from the dropdown menu
• Restart Steam and launch Realm of the Mad God Exalt

Opting into the beta may also grant access to future ROTMG updates ahead of full release. I recommend leaving beta participation enabled.

2. Verify Integrity of Game Files

If corrupted files are causing the error, verifying integrity can detect and restore missing game content.

• In your Steam library, right-click on Realm of the Mad God Exalt
• Select Properties > Local Files > Verify Integrity of Game Files
• Let Steam scan and restore any missing or damaged files
• Restart Steam and try launching the game again

Verifying integrity takes just a few minutes and often resolves common errors.

3. Reinstall Steam and Realm of the Mad God Exalt

As a last resort, fully reinstalling Steam and ROTMG downloads fresh files which should bypass any lingering issues.

• Backup your saves
• Uninstall Steam and delete any remaining folders
• Reinstall Steam and log into your account
• Install Realm of the Mad God Exalt
• Try launching the game again

Reinstalling ensures you have the latest versions of all files which may fix version mismatch or corruption problems. Just be sure to backup your save data first!

Additional Troubleshooting Tips

If the authorization error persists after trying the above fixes, here are a few other things to check:

• Restart your computer and router – a fresh reboot re-establishes connections
• Validate internet connection – check for outages with your ISP
• Disable antivirus temporarily – whitelist Steam and ROTMG
• Reinstall graphics drivers – update to the latest for compatibility
• Contact Steam support – they can investigate account issues

The Benefits and Risks of Steam Beta Participation

Opting into the Steam beta client has some notable benefits for ROTMG players:

Early access to features – Beta users get updates ahead of full release

Increased compatibility – Prevents version mismatch issues with games

Fix bugs/problems early – Report issues and improve stability

However, there are some potential downsides to consider as well:

Unstable performance – Beta software may have more bugs

Missing features – Some functions may not work properly yet

Harder to troubleshoot – Issues caused by beta are harder to identify

Overall, I recommend ROTMG players participate in the Steam beta to maximize compatibility and minimize authorization errors. Just be prepared for occasional bugs.

In Summary

The frustrating "Steam authorization error" blocking access to Realm of the Mad God Exalt can be fixed. Opt into Steam beta, verify game file integrity, and reinstall Steam/ROTMG as needed.

Double check your internet connection and PC software as well. With the right troubleshooting, you‘ll be back to enjoying Realm of the Mad God‘s intense bullet hell combat in no time.

Now that you know how to defeat the Steam authorization error, the next challenge awaits in the Realm of the Mad God!