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.
🌐 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)
🔗 Universal Connection
Dedicated servers act as neutral ground where all platforms can connect using server IP and password.
⚡ Best Performance
Professional hosting ensures stable connections and equal latency for all players across platforms.
🔧 Full Control
Configure server settings, manage player permissions, and maintain 24/7 availability.
Method 2: Host & Play (Listen Server)
💻 Platform-Specific Hosting
PC players can host games that console players can join, but console-to-console hosting may be limited.
📡 Port Forwarding Required
Host must configure router ports (typically 27015 UDP) for external connections.
⚖️ 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
🎮 Controller Support
All platforms support controllers. PC players can switch between input methods.
🖱️ Mouse & Keyboard
PC exclusive. Offers precision for base building and inventory management.
⚖️ 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
❌ Cannot Find Server
Verify server IP and port, check crossplay setting is enabled, ensure server is running and accessible.
🔗 Friend Invites Not Working
Check account linking, verify platform friend status, ensure both players have crossplay enabled.
🌐 High Latency Issues
Choose server location central to all players, upgrade network connection, reduce player count.
🎮 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
👥 Cross-Platform Clans
Form groups with players from different platforms, shared clan bases and resources.
🏆 Cross-Platform Achievements
Unified achievement system with progress sync across all connected platforms.
📊 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).