Video games are a passion for so many people. These days, video games are extremely immersive, realistic, and graphically impressive. But modern technology now allows us to play these games with our friends no matter which console or platform they are playing on!
Video gaming is a lucrative business and as a result, many games are exclusive to certain platforms. However, there are still huge numbers of games available that are cross-platform as well as crossplay compatible. And trust us when we say that some of these games are gems that you’ll definitely want to check out!
But which cross-platform games are the best? And which cross-platform games allow for crossplay? Well, we’ve created this handy guide for you to know the best cross-platform and crossplay games out there, along with other handy tips and tricks.
So, let’s get into it!
Table of Contents
Already know the difference between cross-platform and crossplay? Click a header to jump to the section of your choosing:
- List of Games with Crossplay Compatibility
- List of Cross-Platform Games
- Top 8 Cross-Platform & Crossplay Games
- Buyer’s Guide
- Cross-Platform FAQ
Cross-Platform VS Crossplay (What’s the Difference?)
Cross-platform refers to games available across multiple platforms, rather than being exclusive to just one.
In addition to being cross-platform, some of these games also allow for crossplay (also known as “cross-play”, or sometimes “cross-platform-play”).
Crossplay is when someone playing an online game on one platform can join the same game as someone else using a different platform or console.
As an example of cross-play, if you own a game on Steam and your friend owns it on Playstation 5, Playstation 4, Xbox Series X and Series S, or Xbox One, you could play it together. Hop into the same game or match, despite being on different consoles or platforms!
It’s important to note here that some games may be cross-platform for some platforms, but not all. Additionally, it should be noted that some games are even backward compatible. This type of crossplay allows for older-gen consoles to crossplay with newer-gen consoles, such as PS4 to PS5 crossplay.
Which Games have Crossplay available?
This list highlights the absolute best crossplay experiences available to date.
Crossplay Supported Games
A – D Games
- Battlefield 2042 (PS4, PS5, PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S)
- Borderlands 3 (Steam, Epic)
- Chess Ultra (Xbox One, Switch, PC)
- DC Universe Online (PC, Playstation 3, Playstation 4)
- Dead by Daylight (PC, PS5, Switch, Xbox)
- Diablo: Immortal (PC, mobile)
- Dragon Quest Builders 2 (Switch, PS4)
E – P Games
- Elden Ring (available for families of systems: Xbox One, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, etc.)
- Fortnite (PC, Switch, mobile, Playstation, and Xbox)
- Forza Horizon 5 (PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S)
- Final Fantasy XV (PC, Xbox One)
- Guilty Gear: Strive (PC, PS4, PS5)
- Halo Infinite (PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S)
- Hearthstone (PC, Mac, iOS, Android)
- Mortal Kombat 11 (PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S)
- NBA 2K Playgrounds 2 (PC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One)
- Phantasy Star Online (PC, Xbox One)
- PlayUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S)
- Pure Chess (Wii U, 3DS, Android, iOS)
Q – Z Games
- Roblox (PC, Xbox One, Mac, mobile)
- Rocket League (Xbox, Playstation, & Nintendo consoles. For PC, Steam and Epic)
- Street Fighter 5 (PC, PS4)
- Tetris Effect: Connected (PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S)
- Trailblazers (PC, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One)
- World of Tanks (PS4, Xbox One)
Which Games Are Cross-Platform?
Whilst it would be nearly impossible to give you a complete list of cross-platform games, we’ve got a few listed below that are very popular. We’ll start with games that have full cross-platform support.
Full Cross-Platform
- Call Of Duty: Black Ops Cold War
- Fortnite
- Minecraft
- Dead By Daylight
- Destiny 2
- Apex Legends
- Overwatch
Partial Cross-Platform
- Ark: Survival Evolved
- Battlefield 2042
- Borderlands 3
- Final Fantasy 15
- Forza Horizon 5
- Mortal Kombat 11
- Hex
Top 8 Cross-Platform and Crossplay Games
Let’s kick off our list of the best cross-platform games now, along with their pros and cons!
Disclaimer before we begin though – our choices include both crossplay compatible games and games that are simply cross-platform. Each option will clearly show whether crossplay is also available!
Okay, now we’ve got that out of the way – let us begin.
Halo: Infinite
Fans of Halo will absolutely love the latest installment of the series. Follow Master Chief’s story as the fate of all humanity is in the balance, and he must face the most dangerous foe he has ever had to.
With the most expansive campaign to date and free-to-play multiplayer mode, not only can you enjoy this game in its base form, but also through cross-platform on Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC!
Does Halo Infinite have Multiplayer Online Crossplay?
Yes, the co-op campaign mode of Halo Infinite is crossplay compatible. You can play through the multiplayer campaign mode with your friends across platforms including Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC.
Pros
- Crossplay compatibility
- Huge, expansive gameplay
- Amazing storyline
- The sound design is impeccable
- Fluid gameplay
Cons
- Not available on PlayStation platforms
- Some reload animations can cut in and out
Rocket League
Let us ask you something – are you a fan of soccer? How about cars? Now, imagine those things were a package! Boom, you’ve got Rocket League.
Rocket League is one of the best games you can play with your friends or strangers alike. Whilst there is some skill involved in the game, a lot of your success will come from tactics and a heck of a lot of luck!
Available on Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and PC, you’ll have hours of fun trying to be the motorized version of Ronaldo!
Is Rocket League Crossplay Compatible?
Yes, Rocket League allows for crossplay on Nintendo, Playstation, and Xbox gaming consoles. On PC, crossplay is available between Steam and Epic Games. No matter what gear you have, you’ll be able to play with your friends.
Pros
- Available on pretty much all platforms
- Lots of fun to play with friends, family, or strangers
- Game for all ages
Cons
- If you don’t like soccer or cars, you’ll probably avoid this!
Fortnite: Battle Royale
How can we have a list of popular cross-platform games without mentioning Fortnite (see also ‘How To Win A Game Of Fortnite‘)? Fortnite shot to prominence with its now popular – but at the time quite unique – gameplay.
Battle royale games are now quite commonplace, but arguably Fortnite made them popular.
As the name might suggest, Fortnite is a battle royale game, meaning it’s a “last man standing” type of game. Keep yourself alive and get rid of the other players to win – whilst enjoying the hilariously designed world and ridiculous dancing!
Fortnite Cross-Platform Crossplay
Yes, Fortnite does have crossplay compatibility. Cross-platform play in Fortnite is supported on Android, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and Windows. Whatever differences you and your friends have when it comes to gaming preferences, you will be able to play Fortnite together.
Pros
- Lots of fun
- Popular among many ages
- Pretty easy game to master
Cons
- Can become a little bit repetitive
Red Dead Redemption 2
Whilst Red Dead Redemption 2 does not offer crossplay, it is a cross-platform game available on both Xbox One and PlayStation 5.
Later editions will be available on other platforms too, including the Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC.
Red Dead Redemption 2 is the prequel of the ground-breaking RockStar game Red Dead Redemption.
You play as outlaw Arthur Morgan as part of the larger Van Der Linde gang run by Dutch Van Der Linde – who our previous protagonist John Marston was sent to capture or kill.
You’ll follow the glories and the horrors that face this outlaw gang as they try to evade the Pinkerton Agency in an ever-changing America.
In the wake of the Civil War, gangs like this were dying out due to civilization and gentrification, as laws cleaned up the “Wild West”.
It’s a truly beautiful story with a fantastic payoff. If you’ve never played the first installment of the series, you should definitely give this prequel a try first! Trust us when we say you’ll thank us later!
Does Red Dead Redemption 2 Online have Cross-Platform Compatibility?
No, cross-platform crossplay is not available for Red Dead Redemption 2. If you want to play with your friends online, you will need to seek out friends who are playing on the same platform or console as you.
Pros
- Highly rated, highly reviewed game series (see also ‘Stray Review – A Straight Forward Game Review‘)
- Amazing story
- Online mode available
- Immersive
- Beautiful graphics
- Some of the best motion capture acting in the video game world
Cons
- Can be a slow-burner
- No cross-play available yet
Dead By Daylight
Dead By Daylight is truly a unique game whereby one player must take on the role of a savage killer, and other players must struggle to survive attempting to outwit their opponents, whilst dealing with the trials of life.
It’s one of the best crossplay games available on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, and PC – so it pretty much caters to all types of gamers.
You will put your wits against real people and have to use your skills to ensure your own survival – or take the role of the killer and ensure their demise!
If you’re a survival game fan or a “hunter” type gamer – you’ll seriously enjoy this title.
The Crossplay Compatibility of Dead By Daylight
Yes, Dead by Daylight is Cross-Platform and Crossplay is available. Any console or PC set up you prefer will allow for you to play with your friends online, so long as you both own a copy of the game.
Pros
- One of the best crossplay games
- Unique style
- Fun for many types of gamers
Cons
- Not a choice for everybody or young players
- Can get a little “samey”
Grand Theft Auto: 5
Another RockStar title on our list now and available on many platforms, GTA V offers players the chance to either play the story mode or play GTA: Online – which has taken off with its unique style and gameplay.
The story follows three main protagonists; Franklin, Michael, and Trevor – all of which have their own storylines and interesting characteristics and development.
Franklin is a young man trying to escape the “gangsta” lifestyle that he has found himself in within the local neighborhood. He works dead-end jobs with questionable legalities until he comes across Michael.
Michael is a retired bank robber who is in Witness Protection from events that happened a decade prior. He tries teaching Franklin a thing or two, until eventually coming across an old associate Trevor.
Trevor is a Canadian former bank robber and sociopath who believed Michael to be dead – until events bring him back together with his former partner in crime.
Together, the three protagonists deal with personal and business troubles whilst trying to better themselves and escape their own problems.
The online mode allows players to join crews and put together their own heists to make in-game money for further player development. It’s also pretty hilarious with some of the things that can happen!
If you’re a fan of open-world games, you’ll love this game!
GTA 5 Online Crossplay is not Available
GTA 5 Online does not currently allow for cross-platform play. Crossplay features are not available, so if you would like to play with your friends online you must both be on the same platform.
Pros
- Won multiple awards for both Online and Story modes
- Still going strong with a huge presence of developer expansion
- Fun for so many players
Cons
- Crossplay isn’t stable and often cannot be performed
- Many things in the game require real cash payments in the form of “Shark Cards”
Elden Ring
Elden Ring is a fantasy game with influences by George RR Martin (Game Of Thrones) and Dark Souls creator Hidetaka Miyazaki. If you’re a fan of fantasy open-world games, you’ll be pleased with this one!
Whilst it does not yet offer crossplay for different platforms, it will have cross-gen co-op for Playstation 4 and Playstation 5 – so you can rest easy there! It is however available on multiple platforms including Xbox One.
It’s a truly fascinating world where you find danger and trouble around every corner, whilst learning the ropes and exploring everything around you.
Elden Ring’s Cross-Platform Play Compatibility
Yes, Elden Ring does allow for cross-platform multiplayer online. However, this is only true for systems within the same family. For example, Xbox One plays can play only with other Xbox players including the Xbox Series X|S.
Pros
- Open-world created by huge names in the business of fantasy
- Partial crossplay
- High-quality graphic design
Cons
- Full cross-play capabilities are not supported
Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt
Witcher 3 has no crossplay capabilities due to being solely a story mode game, but it is available on multiple platforms – most recently released on Nintendo Switch.
It’s also available on Xbox One, PC, and PlayStation 5. Released by CD Projekt Red who are now becoming big names in the gaming world with their new title “CyberPunk”, the Witcher 3 is the third installment in the story of Geralt of Rivia.
If you’re a fan of Netflix, you may have heard of the Witcher. It began as a series of novels by Andrej Sapkowski and has flourished on both the gaming scene and now the small screen.
There are plans for a new installment of the game and even an updated version for next-gen consoles including the Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5 – with some new features being added.
This game follows Geralt of Rivia, a Witcher (or monster hunter for hire). You search for your adopted daughter Ciri, as the Wild Hunt – a gang of dangerous Elven riders – attempt to find and take her, whilst the end of days looms large.
This game has won multiple awards over the years and continues to remain relevant in today’s market. It has to be played to be understood and it is really well worth it!
Pros
- Multi award-winning game
- Amazing storyline
- Available on multiple platforms
Cons
- No online mode or multiplayer with crossplay
- It May not be for gamers who aren’t fans of fantasy games
Buyers’ Guide
Before you go out and buy some of these choices on our list, there are some things you should consider and understand first.
Crossplay And Cross-Platform Explained
You may have read some of the information above and been wondering what the difference is between cross-play and cross-platform. These terms are often used interchangeably, so it’s a good idea that we clear this up.
Crossplay games refer to games that can be used on different platforms. So, you could be playing a version of a game online against a player using a different console for example.
Cross-platform games however as a generic term referring to games being released on different platforms (for example, Xbox, PlayStation PC). The key thing to note here is that whilst a game might be cross-platform, it may not support cross-play and vice versa.
Cross Gen
To add a little more confusion to the mix, there are also cross-gen games. Some cross-gen games support crossplay too and some are even cross-platform!
To make it easier and to put it in its most simple terms, cross-gen games refer to games that have been released on different generations of their platform. For example, Grand Theft Auto 5 was initially released in 2013 on the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.
Later, however, next-generation consoles were able to purchase an updated version of the game specifically for their platforms (Xbox One and PlayStation 4). Later, the PC version, Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5 received their versions.
Not All Games Are Made Equal
You may have noticed that not all games are crossplay or cross-platform. Generally speaking, this is because there are limitations to the software or hardware capabilities of the platforms themselves.
However, it can also be down to business decisions. Sony, for example, releases some Sony exclusive games – meaning games only available on the Sony PlayStation. Spiderman is a perfect example of this.
As a result, you will not be able to purchase titles like this on the Xbox. When we move this to multiplayer games, crossplay becomes impossible too.
Is Cross-Platform Capability Worth It?
This is a fair question when you’re thinking of purchasing some games. Many players argue that cross-platform support doesn’t always work and can make games unplayable at times when trying to crossplay.
When trying to weigh up whether it is better to simply purchase other platforms, you’d need to consider what games you’d be looking to play and if the exclusive titles are worth the purchase.
Developers have noticed a shift pattern with modern players though. The popularity of crossplay has shot through the roof. In previous years, playing a game against your friends would be largely determined by the hardware.
However, as technology has advanced and developers have moved along with the times, players are now enjoying the benefits of cross-platform capabilities, even for AAA games.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most asked questions when it comes to cross-platform gaming.
Is God Of War: Ragnarok Cross-Platform?
Whilst previously it was thought to be a PlayStation 5 exclusive, it seems that God Of War: Ragnarok will be cross-platform, being released on both PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. However, it is only available on Sony – sorry Xbox users!
Does Battlefield 5 Feature Cross-Platform Play?
Developers are still not talking about a possible change here – unfortunately, despite being available for a number of years, Battlefield 5 is still not cross-platform. It is, however, cross-gen and available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S.
Is Terraria Cross-Platform?
Whilst you cannot play the PC version against players using the PlayStation or Xbox version, mobile gamers can play cross-platform in terms of Android and iOS.
Does Minecraft have Crossplay?
Yes, Minecraft does allow for crossplay. You can connect with your friends and play online no matter which platform each of you is on. Cross-platform play availability begins with Minecraft: Bedrock Edition.
The Bottom Line
Cross-platform games are fantastic, especially when they have crossplay compatibility. Unfortunately for us, not all of them do!
That doesn’t mean to say they’re no good though – as we’ve seen on this list, some of the best games out there are cross-platform but have no crossplay compatibility. However, some may in the future.
We hope this list has been useful to you. Good luck with your search for the best games out there!
