Cross-platform gaming has become increasingly popular, and many players wonder if they can explore the challenging world of Elden Ring with friends across different platforms. As one of the most successful games of 2022, Elden Ring’s multiplayer features have sparked numerous discussions about compatibility between Xbox and PC systems.
While many modern games support cross-platform play, FromSoftware’s approach to multiplayer functionality in Elden Ring follows its own unique path. Understanding the game’s cross-platform capabilities is crucial for players who want to team up with friends or engage in PvP battles across different gaming systems. Whether you’re a PC enthusiast or an Xbox devotee, knowing the limitations and possibilities of Elden Ring’s multiplayer system will help you plan your cooperative adventures effectively.
Can Xbox And PC Play Elden Ring Together
Elden Ring operates on specific platforms with distinct multiplayer features across its supported systems. The game’s cross-platform functionality varies depending on the gaming ecosystem used.
Current Platform Availability
Elden Ring runs on 5 major gaming platforms:
- PlayStation 4 (PS4)
- PlayStation 5 (PS5)
- Xbox One
- Xbox Series X/S
- PC via Steam
| Platform | Resolution | Frame Rate |
|---|---|---|
| PS5/Xbox Series X | 4K | Up to 60 FPS |
| PS4 Pro/Xbox One X | 1800p | Up to 30 FPS |
| PC | Variable | Uncapped |
Multiplayer Support Across Platforms
Cross-platform functionality in Elden Ring follows these specific rules:
- Xbox One connects with Xbox Series X/S
- PS4 connects with PS5
- PC players connect exclusively with other PC users
- No cross-platform play between Xbox PlayStation PC systems
- Co-op gameplay for up to 4 players
- PvP invasions with 2-6 participants
- Message sharing between players
- Blood stain death replays
- Player phantoms in the game world
Xbox and PC Cross-Play Compatibility
Elden Ring does not support cross-play between Xbox and PC platforms. Players on Xbox consoles can only connect with other Xbox users while PC players remain restricted to the Steam ecosystem.
Technical Requirements
- A stable internet connection with minimum 5 Mbps download speed
- Xbox Live Gold subscription for Xbox players
- Steam account for PC players
- Updated game version on both platforms
- Compatible hardware specifications:
- Xbox One: 30 FPS at 900p resolution
- Xbox Series X: 60 FPS at 4K resolution
- PC: DirectX 12 graphics card
- 12 GB RAM minimum for both platforms
- 60 GB storage space
- Enable UPnP in router settings
- Open these ports for optimal connection:
- TCP: 3074
- UDP: 88 500 3074 3544 4500
- Configure NAT type to Open or Type 2
- Disable VPN connections during gameplay
- Allow Elden Ring through Windows Firewall
- Set Xbox privacy settings to “Allow” for:
- Multiplayer gaming
- Communication with others
- User-generated content
How to Set Up Cross-Platform Co-Op
Setting up cooperative play in Elden Ring requires specific steps within each platform’s ecosystem. Players connect through the game’s built-in multiplayer system using summoning signs and passwords.
Summoning Friends
Players initiate co-op gameplay by using Furlcalling Finger Remedy to reveal summoning signs. Here’s the process:
- Craft or purchase a Furlcalling Finger Remedy
- Use the Remedy in the desired location
- Look for gold summoning signs on the ground
- Interact with the sign to summon another player
- Wait for the summoned player to appear in-game
The host maintains their world state while summoned players join as cooperators. Summoning works in most areas except cleared zones where the area boss is defeated.
Using Multiplayer Passwords
Password matchmaking enables targeted connections between specific players. Steps to set up passwords:
- Open the Multiplayer menu from the main game menu
- Select Settings
- Enter an identical password (up to 8 characters) for all players
- Apply the settings
- Use the Small Golden Effigy or Tarnished’s Furled Finger
Multiplayer password settings:
| Setting Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Group Password | Connects players in larger communities |
| Multiplayer Password | Links specific players directly |
| Character Limit | 8 characters maximum |
| Case Sensitivity | Passwords must match exactly |
Players must use matching passwords on the same platform ecosystem (Xbox-Xbox or PC-PC) to connect successfully.
Limitations of Cross-Platform Play
Elden Ring’s cross-platform restrictions create distinct boundaries between gaming ecosystems. These limitations impact multiplayer connectivity options across different platforms.
- Platform Segregation: PC players connect exclusively through Steam while Xbox users remain limited to the Xbox network ecosystem
- Regional Restrictions: Multiplayer connections operate within specific geographical server regions
- Version Compatibility: Players must run identical game versions to establish multiplayer connections
- Connection Requirements:
- Minimum internet speed: 3 Mbps upload & download
- NAT Type: Open or Moderate
- Active Xbox Live Gold or Game Pass Ultimate subscription for Xbox users
- Active Steam account for PC users
| Platform | Connected Players Limit | Summoning Range Level | Password Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xbox | 4 players maximum | ±25 levels | No (Yes for direct friends) |
| PC | 4 players maximum | ±25 levels | No (Yes for direct friends) |
- Performance Disparities:
- Frame rate differences between platforms
- Loading time variations
- Graphics quality inconsistencies
- Feature Limitations:
- No shared character progression
- No cross-platform item trading
- No unified achievement system
- Separate leaderboards per platform
The technical barriers create distinct gaming communities on each platform while maintaining platform-specific multiplayer experiences.
Best Practices for Xbox-PC Multiplayer
Platform-Specific Groups
- Create dedicated gaming groups on Xbox Live for Xbox players
- Join Steam community hubs for PC players
- Organize platform-specific Discord channels for easier communication
- Schedule gaming sessions within platform ecosystems
Connection Optimization
- Set router NAT type to Open
- Configure port forwarding for Xbox Live (3074 TCP/UDP)
- Enable UPnP in router settings
- Maintain 3+ Mbps internet speed
- Use wired connections instead of Wi-Fi
Game Settings
- Match game versions across platforms
- Set graphics settings to prioritize stable frame rates
- Enable performance mode on Xbox Series X/S
- Verify regional settings match intended play group
- Update game files regularly
Alternative Solutions
- Use Discord overlay for cross-platform communication
- Create separate characters for platform-specific play
- Share progress through external tracking apps
- Coordinate with friends using third-party gaming schedules
- Join community forums for platform-specific matchmaking
Common Troubleshooting
- Restart game after extended play sessions
- Clear console cache weekly
- Verify subscription status (Xbox Live Gold/Steam)
- Check server status before multiplayer sessions
- Monitor bandwidth usage during peak hours
| Setting | Xbox Requirement | PC Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| NAT Type | Open/Moderate | N/A |
| Min Speed | 3 Mbps | 3 Mbps |
| Ports | 3074 TCP/UDP | Steam ports |
| Connection | Wired preferred | Wired preferred |
| Firewall | Xbox apps allowed | Steam allowed |
Elden Ring Offers Rich Multiplayer Experiences
Players hoping to team up across Xbox and PC platforms in Elden Ring will need to adjust their expectations. The game maintains strict platform boundaries with Xbox users connecting only to other Xbox players and PC gamers limited to the Steam ecosystem.
Despite these limitations Elden Ring offers rich multiplayer experiences within each platform’s environment. Players can maximize their gaming experience by following the recommended connection settings utilizing communication tools like Discord and joining platform-specific communities.
Understanding these platform restrictions helps players make informed decisions about where to purchase and play Elden Ring while ensuring they can connect with their intended gaming companions.