Deep Rock Galactic is a favourite among fans of cooperative first-person shooters. But if you’re wondering about Deep Rock Galactic crossplay and whether you can team up with friends across different platforms, we’ve got you covered! This guide explores crossplay, how it works, and answers all your questions so you can jump into the action with your crew.
What Is Crossplay and Why Is It Important for Deep Rock Galactic?
Crossplay allows players on different gaming platforms to play together seamlessly. For a game like Deep Rock Galactic, which thrives on cooperative gameplay, crossplay is crucial. It ensures that no matter what device your friends use—be it Xbox, PlayStation, or PC—you can still dive into the alien-infested caves together.
In multiplayer games, crossplay breaks down barriers, creating a larger and more diverse player base. This is especially important for games with unique roles like Deep Rock Galactic, where teamwork and coordination are essential.
Does Deep Rock Galactic Support Crossplay?
Yes, Deep Rock Galactic crossplay is available—but with certain limitations. Let’s break it down by platform:
- Xbox and Windows PC (Microsoft Store):
- Crossplay is supported between Xbox consoles (Xbox Series X/S and Xbox One) and PC, but only if the PC version was purchased via the Microsoft Store. Players using Steam cannot join this pool.
- PlayStation Consoles (PS4 and PS5):
- While crossplay is unavailable between PlayStation and other platforms, cross-generational play is supported. This means PS4 and PS5 players can team up without issues.
- Steam:
- Steam players are isolated from Xbox and PlayStation players. There’s no crossplay option here, though future updates could change this.
These limitations can be frustrating for some, but they don’t diminish the fantastic co-op experience Deep Rock Galactic offers.
How to Enable Crossplay in Deep Rock Galactic
If you’re playing on Xbox or Windows PC (Microsoft Store version), enabling Deep Rock Galactic crossplay is straightforward. Here’s how you can do it:
- Ensure You’re on a Supported Platform:
- Crossplay works only between Xbox and PC players using the Microsoft Store version of the game.
- Log in to Your Microsoft Account:
- Xbox players already have a linked Microsoft account. PC players should ensure they’re logged in with the same account to access crossplay features.
- Invite Friends Across Platforms:
- Use the in-game friend system to invite players from Xbox or PC. Once connected, you can form a squad and start mining.
- Check Your Internet Connection:
- Smooth crossplay requires a stable internet connection. Lag or connectivity issues may disrupt the experience.
Unfortunately, if you’re on Steam or PlayStation, there’s no crossplay to enable at this time.
Crossplay Limitations in Deep Rock Galactic
While Deep Rock Galactic crossplay exists, it’s not universal. Here’s a summary of its limitations:
- No Crossplay Between PlayStation and Xbox/PC: PlayStation players cannot team up with friends on Xbox or PC, which limits the cross-platform potential.
- Steam Version Excluded: PC players using Steam cannot play with those on Xbox or PlayStation, as crossplay is tied to the Microsoft ecosystem.
- Platform-Restricted Progression: Progression sync is tied to platforms, meaning you cannot transfer progress between Xbox and Steam, for example.
Does Deep Rock Galactic Have Cross-Progression?
Yes! Deep Rock Galactic supports cross-progression across platforms. This means you can pick up where you left off, regardless of whether you switch between Xbox consoles or from Xbox to Windows PC.
For players who want to maintain their hard-earned progress—like levelling up characters or unlocking perks—cross-progression is a major plus.
However, there’s a caveat: cross-progression works only within the same ecosystem. So, if you switch from Steam to Xbox, your progress won’t carry over.
Challenges and Future of Crossplay in Deep Rock Galactic
Crossplay development is tricky, and Deep Rock Galactic is no exception. Here are some challenges:
- Platform Ecosystem Restrictions:
- Platforms like PlayStation and Steam have different online infrastructures, making crossplay integration complex.
- Community Feedback:
- Players often voice concerns about balancing crossplay matches, especially when one platform has technical advantages (e.g., mouse and keyboard vs. controller).
- Developer Resources:
- Expanding crossplay requires significant effort from developers. Ghost Ship Games has hinted at future updates, but no timeline has been confirmed.
Future Possibilities
While crossplay is currently limited, Ghost Ship Games has shown interest in enhancing the feature. If crossplay expands to include Steam and PlayStation, it could bring even more players together.
FAQs About Deep Rock Galactic Crossplay
Q1: Can Steam players join Xbox players in Deep Rock Galactic?
No, crossplay between Steam and Xbox is not supported at this time. Only Xbox and Windows PC (Microsoft Store) players can team up.
Q2: Will PlayStation players get crossplay with Xbox or PC?
As of now, there’s no crossplay between PlayStation and other platforms. However, cross-generational play is available for PS4 and PS5 users.
Q3: How does cross-progression work?
Cross-progression allows you to carry your progress between platforms within the same ecosystem, such as Xbox and PC via Microsoft Store.
Q4: Is Ghost Ship Games planning to expand crossplay?
There’s no official announcement, but the developers have acknowledged community demand for expanded crossplay options.
Conclusion
While Deep Rock Galactic crossplay has its limitations, it still offers a way for Xbox and Windows PC players to connect and enjoy the game together. The support for cross-progression adds value, making it easier to switch devices without losing progress. However, the absence of universal crossplay—especially for PlayStation and Steam players—is a missed opportunity.
If you’re looking for a thrilling cooperative experience, Deep Rock Galactic delivers, even with its crossplay restrictions. Keep an eye out for updates as Ghost Ship Games continues to refine the multiplayer experience. Happy mining!
