Crossplay means players on different platforms, such as PC, PlayStation and Xbox, can join the same match or lobby of a game and play together.
It is also written cross-play or called cross-platform play. Without crossplay, a game keeps each platform in its own player pool, so a friend on a different system cannot join you.
How players use it
- "Does this game have crossplay? My friend is on PlayStation."
- "Crossplay is on, we can squad up."
- "Turning crossplay off in ranked, I want PC lobbies only."
- "LFG, any platform, crossplay on."
How it works
Crossplay is usually a setting. Many games let you turn it on or off, and some separate the pools by input type, so controller players and mouse and keyboard players get different queues. The exact options vary by game and change over time, so check the in-game settings and the official site before you plan a session with friends.
Most crossplay games also need a shared account or friend system, often from the publisher, to invite someone on another platform. For example, Fortnite and Rocket League use an Epic Games account, and Call of Duty uses an Activision account.
Pros and cons
- More players: bigger pools mean shorter queues, particularly for smaller platforms or less popular modes.
- Play with friends anywhere: nobody has to buy a different system.
- Input differences: mouse and keyboard can have an aiming advantage over a controller, which is why some games offer a toggle.
- Cheating concerns: some players avoid crossplay on PC-heavy games because of cheaters, which is one more reason to check the options.
Crossplay is not cross-progression
Crossplay is about who you can play with. Progress, items and unlocks are a different feature. See cross-progression for how that works.
Looking for teammates on any platform? Apps like GameVerse show players online now for the same game and region, so you can write to them before you queue.
Related terms
FAQ
Is crossplay the same as cross-platform?
In everyday use, yes. "Cross-platform" can sometimes also describe a game that is simply available on several platforms, even if those players cannot play together, so "crossplay" is the clearer word.
Does crossplay make ping worse?
It does not by itself. Your connection to the game's servers matters more. Playing with someone far away can still raise your ping.
Can I turn crossplay off?
In many games, yes. Look in the settings or matchmaking options. Not every game allows it, and some modes require it.