Kelvin in Multiplayer: Your Ultimate Sons of the Forest Companion Guide

Yes, you can use Kelvin in multiplayer in Sons of the Forest, but with a major caveat. Currently, multiplayer sessions are limited to having only one Kelvin present, regardless of the number of players. This means only one player gets to experience the joy of commanding Kelvin to build bases, gather resources, and generally be the best (mute) friend a survivor could ask for. This guide dives deep into everything you need to know about Kelvin in multiplayer, including how to revive him, manage him, and understand his role in your survival adventure.

Kelvin: Your Silent Partner in Survival

Kelvin is an invaluable asset in Sons of the Forest, acting as a workhorse for resource gathering and construction. His deafness and muteness, a result of the helicopter crash that starts the game, force you to communicate via a notepad, adding a unique dynamic to your relationship. While other players might be envious that only one of you gets Kelvin, you can leverage him to greatly benefit the entire team’s survival efforts.

How to Maximize Kelvin’s Utility in Multiplayer

Even though only one Kelvin is available, strategic cooperation can make him benefit all players in a multiplayer game. Here’s how:

• Base Building: Task Kelvin with gathering logs to build the core structures while other players focus on defense or exploration.
• Resource Gathering: Assign Kelvin to collect specific resources (like rocks or sticks) that everyone needs.
• Strategic Placement: Position Kelvin near critical resource nodes or build sites to streamline production.
• Shared Command: The player who “owns” Kelvin can communicate the needs of the group to Kelvin to ensure the whole party benefits.

What to do if you can’t get Kelvin on Multiplayer

Currently, only one Kelvin can exist on the island in a multiplayer world. There is no official way to spawn more. However, if your team’s Kelvin has died, here’s how you bring him back!

Reviving Kelvin: A Step-by-Step Guide

Officially, there’s no in-game way to revive Kelvin. Once he’s dead, he’s dead (or at least, he should be). However, Sons of the Forest allows players to manipulate save files, giving you the power to resurrect your fallen companion. Be warned, that save file manipulation can be glitchy and can corrupt your save file if done improperly. Here’s how:

1. Close the Game: Make sure Sons of the Forest is completely closed.
2. Access Save Files: Navigate to the game’s save files. The default location is AppDataLocalLowEndnightSonsOfTheForestSaves. You might need to enable “show hidden items” in Windows Explorer to see the AppData folder.
3. Identify Your Save: Find the folder corresponding to your multiplayer save game (usually named with a long string of numbers and letters). Then, identify the most recent directory, as it contains the most recent save.
4. Edit GameStateSaveData.json: Open the GameStateSaveData.json file using a text editor like Notepad or Wordpad. Search for the line "IsRobbyDead":true (Robby is Kelvin’s real name). Change true to false. Save the file.
5. Edit SaveData.json: Open the SaveData.json file in the same directory. Search for "TypeId":9. This section contains Kelvin’s data.
6. Change Kelvin’s State: Within the "TypeId":9 section, look for the line "State":6. Change 6 to 2. This tells the game Kelvin is alive and conscious.
7. Adjust Kelvin’s Health (Optional): You can also modify Kelvin’s health within the same "TypeId":9 section. Look for "Health": and change the value to a higher number (e.g., 100) to ensure he’s fully healed upon revival.
8. Save Changes: Save both GameStateSaveData.json and SaveData.json.
9. Reload the Game: Launch Sons of the Forest and load your save. Kelvin should be back in action.

Important Considerations

• Back Up Your Saves: Before making any changes to your save files, create a backup. This will allow you to restore your game to its previous state if anything goes wrong.
• File Editors: Avoid using advanced text editors like Microsoft Word as they can introduce formatting changes that corrupt the JSON files. Plain text editors like Notepad or Wordpad are recommended.
• Save Locations: The save file location may vary depending on your operating system and game installation. Make sure to double-check the correct path.

How to Keep Kelvin Happy and Productive

Kelvin doesn’t need food or water, but his effectiveness is tied to how well you manage him. Always be mindful of his well-being and give him clear instructions. Here are some tips:

• Clear Communication: Use the notepad effectively to give him specific tasks.
• Safety First: Keep him away from dangerous areas, especially early in the game.
• Don’t Overwork Him: Give him breaks by telling him to rest or stay put.
• Avoid Friendly Fire: Be careful not to accidentally hit him during combat.

FAQs About Using Kelvin in Sons of the Forest Multiplayer

1. Can multiple players command Kelvin in multiplayer?

No, only the player who initially gives Kelvin commands can interact with him. Other players cannot directly issue commands. You’ll have to coordinate.

2. What happens if the player controlling Kelvin disconnects in multiplayer?

If the player controlling Kelvin disconnects, Kelvin will usually stay put or continue his last assigned task. When the player rejoins the game, they regain control of Kelvin.

3. Can I trade Kelvin to another player in multiplayer?

There’s no official mechanic to transfer ownership of Kelvin to another player. The player who interacted with him first retains control.

4. Can Virginia and Kelvin both be in the same multiplayer game?

Yes, Virginia and Kelvin can both be present in the same multiplayer game. However, the one-Kelvin limit still applies.

5. Does Kelvin need to eat or drink in Sons of the Forest?

No, Kelvin does not need to eat or drink in Sons of the Forest. He is self-sufficient in that regard.

6. Can Kelvin die permanently in multiplayer?

Yes, if Kelvin dies in multiplayer, he is permanently dead unless you use the save file editing method mentioned above.

7. Can cannibals kill Kelvin in Sons of the Forest?

Yes, cannibals can attack and kill Kelvin. Be sure to protect him during raids.

8. How do I protect Kelvin from cannibals?

Order Kelvin to stay inside a fortified structure, or tell him to hide when you anticipate an attack.

9. What should I do if Kelvin gets stuck?

Sometimes Kelvin gets stuck in the environment. Try issuing a new command to move him, or save and reload the game.

10. Can Kelvin build everything in the game?

No, Kelvin can only build structures and gather resources that are assigned to him through the notepad. He cannot build everything in the game.

11. How do I tell Kelvin to get fish?

Approach Kelvin and select the “get fish” command from the notepad. He will go to the nearest body of water.

12. Can I give Kelvin weapons?

No, you cannot give Kelvin weapons. He will defend himself by running or hiding.

13. What happens if I don’t revive Kelvin?

If you don’t revive Kelvin, he will be gone from your game permanently.

14. Is Kelvin deaf?

Yes, Kelvin is deaf due to brain damage suffered in the helicopter crash. He relies on written communication through the notepad.

15. Can you use Kelvin in the forest?

Yes, of course. But for a deeper dive into how games like Sons of the Forest can be educational, and used to develop problem-solving and decision-making skills, visit the Games Learning Society website: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.

Final Thoughts

While the one-Kelvin limit in multiplayer might seem restrictive, strategic coordination and resource management can still make him an incredibly valuable asset. Learning how to use Kelvin effectively, including the potential to revive him through save file manipulation, can significantly enhance your survival experience in Sons of the Forest.