GUI Version Mismatch Error

[Bullitt]

Hey guys,
I'm getting this error that's preventing me to join (but I can join other servers):
"Failed launching URL Package 'GUI' version mismatch"
Now, I've had this game since it came out and have run across just about every error/fix with this game. I may have come across this before but can't remember.
Here's where I'm at:
Googled the error and only something similar came up which prompted me to do the following...
I cleared the cache. Didn't work
I replaced the system folder with a virgin copy. (I keep one on hand for troubleshooting) Also didn't work.
I deleted the game and redownloaded from Steam. Still can't get on.
My PC is fairly new with Windows 11.
Did you guys make a change to the server settings?

[Bullitt]

I found out that when you uninstall through steam it doesn't get rid of settings or previous downloaded stuff. Just reinstalls the game parts. Deleted the game off my computer and started from scratch. I'm good now.

[Piglet]

You shouldn't get this kind of error unless you installed gui.u into your system directory (or just leave ut2004 running and have not restarted over a time the package on the server changed)

The general advice is to let the cache manager deal with packages. Don't install anything into your system directory.

If you get this, delete gui.u from system and restart.

I'm not sure what steam can have been doing to get you into this problem.

[Grim_Fandango]

Hope you don't mind me jumping in.

Regarding playing over Steam (or similar) and a good old fashioned CD install.
If both were fully patched and up to date...are there be any drawbacks or benefits of playing one over the other?

I've always pondered this but kept forgetting to ask. 

[Piglet]

No. No difference, though you're more in control in a stand-alone install.

[Grim_Fandango]

Hadn't thought of that, thanks!

[Piglet]

@Grim_Fandango ... thank you! That will really help.

[Grim_Fandango]

Happy to chip in, it'd be rude not to

[Piglet]

You'd be amazed how few do!

[holyspam]

Hope you don't mind me jumping in.

Regarding playing over Steam (or similar) and a good old fashioned CD install.
If both were fully patched and up to date...are there be any drawbacks or benefits of playing one over the other?

I've always pondered this but kept forgetting to ask. 

Steam might inject some crap on UT, like overlays etc...and this is an old game so it can create lags.

[Gil-galad]

In Linux, Steam overlay can make the game crash. I just disabled it entirely.
Using Steam+Luxtorpeda has given me better handling of peripherals in-game, but in Windows I suppose you wouldn't have those issues since manufacturers usually provide a Windows driver for their hardware.