Palworld Crossplay Guide
Palworld supports limited crossplay between platforms. This comprehensive guide covers current compatibility, technical requirements, and what's planned for future cross-platform play.
Current Crossplay Status
| Platform A | Platform B | Crossplay Available | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steam | Steam | Yes | Same platform |
| Xbox Game Pass | Xbox Game Pass | Yes | Same platform |
| Xbox Console | Xbox Game Pass | Yes | Xbox ecosystem |
| Xbox Console | Xbox Console | Yes | Same platform |
| Steam | Xbox Game Pass | No | Different ecosystems |
| Steam | Xbox Console | No | Different ecosystems |
Important Note
Dedicated servers provided through our platform use the Steam build. This means Xbox/Game Pass players cannot join these servers until cross-platform play is implemented.
Technical Requirements
Steam Platform
- Account: Requires Steam account
- Network: Steamworks matchmaking
- Friends: Steam friends list integration
- Servers: Access to Steam server browser
Xbox Ecosystem
- Account: Xbox Live / Microsoft account
- Network: Xbox Live matchmaking
- Friends: Xbox friends list integration
- Servers: Limited server browser access
Future Crossplay Plans
Official Confirmation
Pocketpair has confirmed that Steam ↔ Xbox/Game Pass crossplay is planned for a future update. However, no specific release date has been announced.
Expected Features
When crossplay is implemented, we anticipate:
- Full friend list integration across platforms
- Cross-platform server joining
- Unified save progression (possibly)
- Shared marketplace content
Workarounds and Solutions
Playing With Friends on Different Platforms
While waiting for full crossplay, consider these options:
- Same Platform: Purchase Palworld on the same platform as your friends
- Third-Party Tools: Use Discord for coordination when playing separately
- Alternative Games: Try similar games with better crossplay support
Server Hosting Options
For Steam players:
- Our dedicated servers support full Steam multiplayer
- Custom server configurations available
- Mod support for enhanced gameplay
For Xbox players:
- Limited to official Xbox servers
- No custom server hosting available yet
- Dependent on Microsoft's infrastructure
Platform-Specific Features
Steam Advantages
- Full mod support through Workshop
- Custom server hosting
- Advanced graphics settings
- Steam community integration
- Regular updates and beta access
Xbox Advantages
- Game Pass access available
- Console optimization
- Xbox achievement system
- Cross-save with Windows Store version
- Controller-optimized interface
Development Timeline
Crossplay Development Stages
- Foundation: Basic infrastructure (completed)
- Testing: Internal crossplay testing (ongoing)
- Beta: Public crossplay beta (future)
- Full Release: Complete crossplay support (TBD)
Community Updates
Stay informed about crossplay developments:
- Follow official Palworld Twitter/X account
- Join the official Discord server
- Check Steam and Xbox store pages for updates
- Monitor patch notes for crossplay features
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Steam and Xbox players play together?
Not currently. Full crossplay is planned but no release date has been announced.
Will my save progress transfer between platforms?
Currently no. Cross-platform save transfer is not available and may never be supported due to technical limitations.
Do I need multiple copies for different platforms?
Yes, you need to purchase Palworld separately on each platform you want to play on.
Are there performance differences between platforms?
Yes, PC (Steam) generally offers higher graphics settings and performance, while consoles have optimized but limited options.
Can I use mods on Xbox?
Currently, mod support is limited to Steam version. Xbox mod support may come in the future but remains unconfirmed.
How do I know when crossplay is available?
Check official Palworld announcements, store pages, and gaming news sites for release information.
Server Hosting Recommendations
Steam Server Hosting
For the best multiplayer experience with full customization options:
- Dedicated Resources: Guaranteed CPU and RAM allocation
- Custom Configuration: Full control over server settings
- Mod Support: Install custom content and mods
- DDoS Protection: Professional security measures
- 24/7 Support: Technical assistance when needed
Crossplay dedicated server setup checklist (refreshed 2026-05-21)
You want a single Palworld dedicated server that PC (Steam), PS5, and Xbox (Game Pass / console) players can all connect to. The community keeps asking "best dedicated server for crossplay?" — the answer is less about which host and more about getting these eight things configured correctly. Run through this list before launching.
1. Use the EOS (Epic Online Services) build, not Steam-only
Palworld dedicated server has two distribution channels: the Steam-only build (works for PC only) and the EOS build (works for crossplay). For crossplay, you must use the EOS-enabled build. Most managed hosts default to this; if you self-host via SteamCMD, verify your server start parameters include EOS authentication.
2. Set the right ports in PalWorldSettings.ini
PublicPort=8211
PublicIP=<your-public-ip>
RCONPort=25575
RCONEnabled=TrueThe default Palworld port is 8211/UDP. Forward this port through your router or, on a managed host, the host has it open by default. Console clients connect to the same port; there is no separate "console port."
3. Configure the server for crossplay clients
CrossplayPlatforms=("Steam","Xbox","PS5","Mac")
bIsRESTAPIEnabled=FalseThe CrossplayPlatforms list controls which client platforms the server accepts. Setting all four enables full crossplay. If you want to restrict (e.g., PC-only), remove platforms from the list.
4. Verify the server is publicly listed
bShowPlayerList=True
ServerPassword=""
ServerDescription="Crossplay PvE — All platforms welcome"Empty password = public server (will appear in the in-game server browser). Set a password if you want whitelist-only joins via direct IP. The description shows up in the browser and helps players know your server welcomes their platform.
5. Player invite via direct connect
Even with public listing on, the cleanest way for console players to join is via direct connect:
- Player opens Palworld → Join Multiplayer Game → Connect by IP
- They enter
your.public.ip:8211 - Or for a managed host with a domain:
your-server.host.com:8211
Direct connect avoids the server browser entirely. Reliable on all platforms.
6. Test from each platform before opening to your community
Before announcing the server, connect from at least:
- A Steam PC client
- A PS5 (if you have one available)
- An Xbox Series X|S (if you have one available)
Each platform handles authentication slightly differently. If one fails to connect, fix it before going public — your future support load drops dramatically.
7. Communicate the Steam/Game Pass character split
Players who own Palworld on Steam and through Game Pass have separate accounts and separate characters. If a player tries to join your server from both platforms, they will have two different characters on the server. Document this in your Discord pin so players don't accidentally orphan a character by switching platforms mid-campaign. See the friends forced to make new character article for the recovery flow.
8. Crossplay-specific known issues
- Console clients sometimes time out during world load on large worlds. Workaround: have them connect during low-traffic hours when the server has spare CPU.
- Voice chat is platform-specific. No cross-platform voice chat. Use Discord for unified comms.
- Console mod support is limited. A heavily-modded server will not accept console clients. If you want crossplay, run vanilla or lightweight QoL mods only.
For crossplay troubleshooting specifically when a player cannot connect, see the dedicated crossplay troubleshooting article.
Looking for managed Palworld server hosting? Supercraft runs Palworld dedicated servers with daily backups, instant setup, and 5 region options. Plans from $5.99/mo.