Introduction
deep rock galactic crossplay (DRG) is a cooperative first-person shooter developed by Ghost Ship Games. Released in 2020, it has become immensely popular due to its engaging co-op gameplay, procedurally generated caves, and destructible environments. However, one of the most frequently asked questions by new and returning players is about crossplay compatibility.
Can you team up with friends on different platforms? How does crossplay work in DRG? This article will break down everything you need to know about deep rock galactic crossplay’s crossplay system, platform compatibility, benefits, limitations, and what the future may hold for cross-platform play.
What Is Crossplay?
Crossplay, or cross-platform play, is a feature that allows players on different gaming platforms to play together. In recent years, more multiplayer games have started to support this functionality to create a more unified player base.
Crossplay is especially beneficial in cooperative games like DRG, where teamwork is a core mechanic. Without crossplay, players are restricted to only playing with others on the same platform, which can fragment the player base and limit multiplayer options.
Deep Rock Galactic Crossplay: Platform Compatibility
deep rock galactic crossplay does not support full crossplay across all platforms. However, there is partial cross-platform compatibility between some versions of the game. Let’s break it down:
- Xbox & Microsoft Store (PC Windows 10/11): Yes, Crossplay!
- Players using Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and the Microsoft Store (Windows 10/11) version of the game can play together seamlessly.
- This is because both versions run on the same Microsoft ecosystem and use Xbox Play Anywhere, allowing cross-progression and crossplay.
- Steam & PlayStation (PS4/PS5): No Crossplay!
- If you purchased deep rock galactic crossplay on Steam (PC), you cannot play with Xbox or Microsoft Store users.
- Similarly, PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 players can only play with others on the same PlayStation platform.
This means that if you and your friends are on different platforms (e.g., one on Steam, one on Xbox), you will not be able to play together.
Why Doesn’t deep rock galactic crossplay Have Full Crossplay?
There are several reasons why DRG does not currently support full deep rock galactic crossplay across Steam, PlayStation, and Xbox:
- Different Game Versions
- The Steam version and Xbox/Microsoft Store versions are not identical in how they handle updates, multiplayer matchmaking, and progression. Merging them would require significant technical adjustments.
- Dedicated Servers and Matchmaking Differences
- Steam and PlayStation use different matchmaking systems compared to the Xbox/Microsoft Store. This makes cross-platform integration more complex.
- Sony’s Restrictive Crossplay Policies
- PlayStation has historically been hesitant about allowing deep rock galactic crossplay with Xbox and PC. While some games have managed to implement it, the process is complicated and requires approval from Sony.
- Development Priorities
- Ghost Ship Games, the developers of DRG, are a relatively small studio. Implementing full deep rock galactic crossplay would take time and resources away from new content and game updates.
How to Enable Crossplay in deep rock galactic crossplay
If you are playing on a compatible platform (Xbox or Microsoft Store PC), follow these steps to enable deep rock galactic crossplay:
- Ensure Both Players Have the Correct Version
- deep rock galactic crossplay only works between Xbox consoles and the Microsoft Store version on PC. If one player has the Steam version, crossplay will not work.
- Sign in with Xbox Live
- Both players must have an Xbox Live account. If you’re on PC (Microsoft Store), sign in with your Xbox credentials to enable crossplay.
- Use Xbox Friends List
- Add each other on Xbox Live to send invites easily. If you’re on PC, open the Xbox Game Bar (Win + G) to manage your friends list and send invites.
- Enable Crossplay in Game Settings
- Check the game’s settings under “Multiplayer” to ensure that deep rock galactic crossplay is enabled.
Once everything is set up, you should be able to join games with friends across Xbox and Microsoft Store PC versions without issues.
Benefits of Crossplay in deep rock galactic crossplay
deep rock galactic crossplay can greatly improve the gaming experience in deep rock galactic crossplay. Here’s why it’s a valuable feature:
- Larger Player Base
- With crossplay, players on different systems can team up, leading to faster matchmaking and a more active community.
- Better Friend Connectivity
- Many players have friends on different platforms. deep rock galactic crossplay removes barriers and allows more people to enjoy DRG together.
- Longer Game Longevity
- Multiplayer games thrive when player bases stay large. deep rock galactic crossplay helps prevent games from becoming inactive over time by keeping different platform communities connected.
- More Balanced Teams
- Crossplay allows for better team composition since more players are available to form squads, reducing the chances of playing with bots or unskilled players.
Challenges and Limitations of Crossplay
Despite its advantages, crossplay does come with some drawbacks:
- Control Differences
- PC players using keyboard and mouse may have an advantage over console players using a controller.
- Performance Variations
- Some platforms may have better frame rates or graphics quality, leading to slight imbalances in gameplay.
- No Cross-Progression for Steam and PlayStation
- If you switch from Steam to Xbox (or vice versa), your progress will not carry over.
- Voice Chat and Communication Issues
- Some platforms use different voice chat systems, requiring players to rely on third-party apps like Discord for communication.
Will deep rock galactic crossplay Get Full Crossplay in the Future?
Ghost Ship Games has acknowledged the demand for full crossplay but has not confirmed if it will ever be implemented. The main obstacles remain the technical difficulties and platform restrictions. However, as cross-platform gaming becomes more common, there is hope that future updates may introduce crossplay between Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation.
Conclusion
While deep rock galactic crossplay does not support full crossplay across all platforms, Xbox and Microsoft Store PC players can play together without issues. Unfortunately, Steam and PlayStation versions remain isolated, preventing a truly unified experience.
Crossplay is a crucial feature in modern multiplayer games, and while DRG’s current implementation has limitations, the possibility of future updates improving cross-platform compatibility remains open.
Until then, if you want to enjoy deep rock galactic crossplay with friends, make sure you’re all on compatible platforms. Happy mining, dwarves!
