Start here
For complete control descriptions and sequence instructions, read the Woodpecker Manual.
Launch through Steam
The release build expects a running Steam client and a valid Woodpecker license.
Test one control at a time
Disable sequences and guards temporarily when narrowing down an unexpected stop.
Troubleshooting
Woodpecker does not start or Steam opens instead
Start Woodpecker from its Steam Library page. Fully exit and restart Steam after a fresh installation if the client has not refreshed the application license yet.
The global hotkey does not trigger
Open Settings, focus the shortcut field, and press the desired key combination. Check that another application has not registered the same system-wide shortcut. Turn on Exact modifiers if extra held modifiers should prevent activation.
A run stops immediately
Read the engine-event rail first. Then check corner and edge guards, the custom stop zone, task-switcher protection, process rules, and click or time limits. The rail reports which observer ended the run.
The click lands in the wrong place
Re-enter sequence pick mode and replace the affected point. Display scaling, monitor arrangement, and moving the target window can change screen coordinates.
The window opens minimized or stays above other windows
Both behaviours are saved settings. Open the Settings tab and change Start Minimized or Always on Top. The PIN control in the title bar also toggles topmost state.
Diagnostics
Open Settings → Data → Details to inspect run totals and engine information. When reporting a problem, include:
- Woodpecker version and Steam BuildID.
- The active input, cadence, limit, and safety controls.
- The engine stop reason shown in the bottom rail.
- Whether the behaviour also occurs with a fresh preset.
- Windows version, display scaling, and number of monitors when coordinates are involved.
Review exported diagnostics before sending them. Do not include personal data or unrelated process information.
Steam Cloud
Woodpecker stores its Steam-synced state in woodpecker-cloud-v1.json. Settings, presets, and run statistics are synchronized through Steam when Cloud is enabled.
Resolve a sync conflict
- Close Woodpecker on every computer.
- Allow Steam to finish synchronizing.
- Keep the copy with the most recent changes when Steam asks.
- Launch Woodpecker again and confirm the active preset.
Contact
For support, email woodpecker@ujjwalvivek.com. Include “Woodpecker” in the subject and attach diagnostics only when they are relevant.
You can also use the Woodpecker Steam Discussions for questions that may help other users.
Email support