Subnautica 2 Crossplay Guide: Connect PC, PS5 & Xbox Players
Master the Subnautica 2 crossplay system to connect players across PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. This comprehensive guide covers server configuration, account linking, and troubleshooting for seamless multiplatform underwater survival adventures.
๐ Crossplay Overview
Subnautica 2 features full crossplay support between all platforms: PC (Steam, Epic Games Store), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. Players can explore the alien ocean together regardless of their chosen platform.
Crossplay Setup Methods
Method 1: Dedicated Server (Recommended)
๐ Universal Connection
Dedicated servers act as neutral ground where all platforms can connect using server IP and password.
โก Best Performance
Professional hosting ensures stable connections and equal latency for all players across platforms.
๐ง Full Control
Configure server settings, manage player permissions, and maintain 24/7 availability.
Method 2: Host & Play (Listen Server)
๐ป Platform-Specific Hosting
PC players can host games that console players can join, but console-to-console hosting may be limited.
๐ก Port Forwarding Required
Host must configure router ports (typically 27015 UDP) for external connections.
โ๏ธ Performance Limitations
Host's platform handles both gameplay and server duties, may cause lag with multiple players.
Account Linking & Friend Systems
Platform Account Requirements
| Platform | Required Account | Friend System | Invite Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| PC (Steam) | Steam Account | Steam Friends | Steam Invite |
| PC (Epic) | Epic Games Account | Epic Friends | Epic Invite |
| PlayStation 5 | PSN Account | PSN Friends | PSN Party Invite |
| Xbox Series X|S | Xbox Live Account | Xbox Live Friends | Xbox Party Invite |
Cross-Platform Friend Integration
- In-Game Friend Code: Share unique codes to add friends across platforms
- Account Linking: Connect platform accounts to Unknown Worlds account system
- Cross-Platform Parties: Form parties with players from different platforms
- Recent Players: View and add players from recent sessions regardless of platform
Server Configuration for Crossplay
Essential Server Settings
| Setting | Recommended Value | Crossplay Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Crossplay Enabled | True | Must be enabled for multiplatform access |
| Server Visibility | Public/Private | Public appears in all platform browsers |
| Password Protection | Optional | Same password works across all platforms |
| Region Lock | Disabled | Allow connections from all regions for global play |
Network Configuration
Important: For crossplay servers, use standard ports: 27015 UDP (game) and 27016 UDP (query). Ensure firewall rules allow connections from all platforms.
Joining Crossplay Sessions
PC Player Joining Process
- Launch Subnautica 2 and select "Multiplayer" from main menu
- Click "Join Game" or "Server Browser"
- Enter server IP address (e.g., 123.456.789.012:27015)
- If password protected, enter server password
- Click "Connect" and wait for world loading
Console Player Joining Process
- Launch Subnautica 2 on PS5 or Xbox
- Navigate to "Multiplayer" section
- Select "Join Server" or "Server Browser"
- Choose from public servers or enter server details manually
- Connect using provided IP and password
Direct Invite Method
- Host creates game session (dedicated or listen server)
- Host opens in-game social menu
- Select friends from cross-platform friend list
- Send game invitation
- Friends accept invitation to automatically join session
Platform-Specific Considerations
PC Platform Differences
| Platform | Advantages | Limitations | Crossplay Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steam | Mod support, workshop integration | Steam account required | Full crossplay with all platforms |
| Epic Games | Free games, exclusive content | Limited mod support | Full crossplay with all platforms |
Console Platform Differences
| Platform | Controller Support | Performance | Crossplay Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| PlayStation 5 | DualSense features | 4K/60fps target | Full crossplay, PSN account required |
| Xbox Series X|S | Xbox controller | 4K/60fps (X), 1440p/60fps (S) | Full crossplay, Xbox Live required |
Input & Control Considerations
Controller vs Mouse & Keyboard
๐ฎ Controller Support
All platforms support controllers. PC players can switch between input methods.
๐ฑ๏ธ Mouse & Keyboard
PC exclusive. Offers precision for base building and inventory management.
โ๏ธ Balance Considerations
Game design accommodates both input methods without competitive advantage.
Cross-Platform Control Settings
- Input-Based Matchmaking: Optional setting to group players by input method
- Control Customization: Independent control schemes per platform
- Button Prompts: Dynamic prompts change based on connected controller
- Sensitivity Settings: Separate sensitivity options for each input type
Content & Progression Sync
Cross-Platform Progression
| Feature | Cross-Platform Sync | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Character Progression | Yes | Linked Unknown Worlds account |
| Inventory Items | Yes | Cloud save enabled |
| Base Blueprints | Yes | Same account across platforms |
| Research Unlocks | Yes | Platform-agnostic save system |
Platform-Specific Content
- Exclusive Cosmetics: Platform-specific skins and customization items
- Cross-Platform Visibility: All players see exclusive content, even if they can't use it
- DLC Compatibility: Platform-specific DLC may not transfer cross-platform
- Season Pass Content: May require separate purchase per platform
Troubleshooting Crossplay Issues
Common Connection Problems
โ Cannot Find Server
Verify server IP and port, check crossplay setting is enabled, ensure server is running and accessible.
๐ Friend Invites Not Working
Check account linking, verify platform friend status, ensure both players have crossplay enabled.
๐ High Latency Issues
Choose server location central to all players, upgrade network connection, reduce player count.
๐ฎ Input Recognition Problems
Reconnect controller, check input settings, verify game recognizes connected input device.
Platform-Specific Troubleshooting
| Platform | Common Issues | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| PC | Firewall blocking, port conflicts | Add exceptions, change ports |
| PS5 | PSN connectivity, NAT type | Check PSN status, improve NAT |
| Xbox | Xbox Live issues, server visibility | Check Xbox Live, server settings |
Security & Privacy Considerations
Cross-Platform Safety Features
- Platform-Level Reporting: Report players through their respective platform systems
- Cross-Platform Blocking: Blocked players cannot join your sessions across platforms
- Privacy Settings: Control who can see your online status and invite you
- Communication Controls: Mute, block, or limit cross-platform voice/text chat
Parental Controls & Restrictions
Important: Crossplay may be restricted by platform-level parental controls. Ensure appropriate settings are configured for younger players.
Performance Optimization for Crossplay
Server Location Selection
| Player Locations | Recommended Server Region | Expected Latency |
|---|---|---|
| Mixed NA/EU | US-East or EU-West | 80-120 ms |
| NA Only | US-Central | 30-60 ms |
| EU Only | EU-Central | 20-50 ms |
| Global | US-East or Singapore | 150-200 ms |
Crossplay-Specific Settings
- Platform-Specific Optimizations: Server automatically adjusts settings based on connected platforms
- Bandwidth Allocation: Dynamic bandwidth distribution for optimal cross-platform performance
- Compression Settings: Adjust data compression based on platform capabilities
- Update Synchronization: Ensure all players have same game version before connecting
Future Crossplay Developments
Planned Features & Updates
- Mobile Companion App: Planned integration with iOS/Android for inventory management
- Cloud Streaming: Potential support for cloud platforms (GeForce Now, Xbox Cloud)
- VR Integration: Experimental VR support for PC version with crossplay compatibility
- Cross-Platform Modding: Limited mod support that works across all platforms
Community & Social Features
๐ฅ Cross-Platform Clans
Form groups with players from different platforms, shared clan bases and resources.
๐ Cross-Platform Achievements
Unified achievement system with progress sync across all connected platforms.
๐ Shared Statistics
Combined playtime, exploration data, and achievements across all platforms.
Best Practices for Crossplay Servers
Server Administration Tips
| Practice | Benefit | Implementation |
|---|---|---|
| Clear Naming Convention | Easy identification | Include [CROSSPLAY] in server name |
| Region in Server Name | Informed joining | Add region tag (e.g., US-EAST) |
| Regular Backups | Data protection | Automated daily backups |
| Active Moderation | Positive community | Dedicated cross-platform admins |
Community Building Strategies
- Cross-Platform Events: Organize server events that cater to all platform players
- Platform-Neutral Communication: Use Discord or other cross-platform chat solutions
- Inclusive Rule Sets: Create server rules that respect platform limitations and differences
- Regular Updates: Keep server updated with latest patches for all platforms
Pro Tip: For the best crossplay experience, use a dedicated server hosted in a central location. Test connections from all platforms before inviting friends, and establish clear communication channels that work across all devices (Discord works well for voice chat across PC and mobile).