Valheim on PS5: Crossplay & Setup Guide
With the 2026 release of Valheim on PlayStation 5, the viking purgatory is finally united across all major platforms. This guide covers how to set up crossplay with your PC/Xbox friends and optimize your console experience.
Enabling Crossplay
Valheim supports full cross-platform play between Steam, Microsoft Store, Xbox, and PlayStation. To play together, you must use the Join Code system.
How to Host (PS5)
- Start a Game and select your character.
- In the World Selection screen, toggle "Start Server" ON.
- Ensure "Crossplay" is checked (it is usually ON by default).
- Once in-game, open the Pause menu. press
L3or check the top right for the Join Code (e.g., 123456). - Share this code with your PC/Xbox friends to let them join.
Note on Dedicated Servers: PS5 players can join dedicated servers, but they cannot host a dedicated server on the console itself. You will need a rented server to keep the world online 24/7.
PS5 DualSense Controls
The PS5 version utilizes the DualSense haptic feedback for immersion (feeling the tree chop or the bow draw). Here is the default mapping:
| Action | Button | Secondary Function |
|---|---|---|
| Attack / Chop | R2 | hold for heavy attack (with some weapons) |
| Block / Parry | L2 | Timing is key for parrying! |
| Interact / Use | Square | Open chests, doors |
| Jump | X | - |
| Run | L3 (Click) | Consumes Stamina |
| Sneak | R3 (Click) | Critical for hunting deer |
| Inventory | Triangle | Quick access |
| Build Menu | D-Pad Up | Select hammer first |
Performance Modes
The PS5 version offers two graphical modes in the Settings -> Graphics menu:
- Quality Mode: Targets 4k resolution at 30 FPS. High fidelity shadows and foliage. Recommended for solo play.
- Performance Mode: Targets 1440p (upscaled) at 60 FPS. Highly recommended for combat and multiplayer, especially in the Mistlands/Ashlands where particle effects are heavy.
Console Commands on PS5
Unlike PC, the command console is hidden by default and harder to access. To use admin commands (devcommands):
- You must be an Admin on the server.
- Hold
L1 + R1 + Triangle + Squaresimultaneously in the pause menu to bring up the console. - Proceed with standard commands (e.g.,
devcommands,god,pos).
Enjoying the console release? Setup a cross-platform Valheim Dedicated Server so your PC, Xbox, and PS5 friends can build in the same world even when the host is offline.