WheelMates Online Desync Split-Screen Workaround
Built-in online co-op can desync the two RC cars. Local split-screen never has this issue. The workaround players discuss is treating the session like local split-screen even when you are remote, using Steam Remote Play Together.
Built-in online co-op can desync the two RC cars (wrong positions on each other's screen, puzzle states firing out of order). That makes progress impossible on a physics-heavy co-op game. Local split-screen never has this issue because both cars run on one machine. The workaround is treating the session like local split-screen even when you are remote.
1Decision Point (choose first)
2Remote Play Together (the online workaround)
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1
The owner launches WheelMates on their PC and reaches the main menu
Enable Steam Overlay if it is not already (Steam, Settings, In-Game, Enable the Steam Overlay).
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2
Plug in a controller for the host. The remote player also needs a controller or Steam-recognized input
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3
Host opens overlay with Shift+Tab, finds the friend, right-clicks them, and chooses Remote Play Together
You can also use Invite Anyone or guest link if they do not need a Steam account for this session.
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4
Friend accepts. They will see the host's screen and their controller becomes Player 2 on the host machine
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5
In-game, start a local or split-screen session, not the built-in online lobby
Both cars now run on the host PC exactly like couch co-op. The remote player just sees the streamed split or shared view.
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6
If input does not register, host uses the overlay Remote Play panel to enable the friend's controller and disable any unwanted mouse or keyboard bleed
3If You Still Want to Try Built-in Online
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1
Launch after the latest hotfix, both players on the same game version, wired connections if possible
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2
Check Steam discussions first
Launch-day reports were still coming in and Online Co-op doesn't work threads already exist.
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3
Reset the session immediately if cars appear in different places
Do not keep playing a desynced puzzle. It usually cannot be recovered without a restart.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Starting the game's own online lobby when Remote Play Together is available. This is what produced the demo desync reports.
- Host on Wi-Fi or a weak upload. Remote Play needs stable bandwidth from the host.
- Expecting keyboard plus mouse for both players over Remote Play. Steam treats extra keyboard input as shared. Use controllers.
- Assuming local split-screen needs internet. It does not.
- Ignoring Friend Pass invite steps. There is a pinned Steam thread for that.