Cross-platform gaming has become increasingly popular, and many players wonder if they can team up with friends across different gaming platforms. When it comes to Rainbow Six Siege (R6), players frequently ask whether PC and PS4 users can join forces in the same match.
While many modern games support cross-platform play, Rainbow Six Siege’s cross-platform capabilities are more limited than some might expect. Understanding the current state of cross-play in R6 helps players make informed decisions about which platform to choose and how to coordinate with their gaming companions.
Can PC And Ps4 Play R6 Together
Rainbow Six Siege’s cross-platform functionality operates under specific parameters established by Ubisoft. These parameters determine how players across different gaming platforms connect and interact within the game.
Current Cross-Play Status Between PC and PS4
Rainbow Six Siege does not support cross-platform play between PC and PS4 players. PC players can only match with other PC users, while PS4 players remain restricted to the PlayStation network. This limitation exists due to:
- Input method differences between keyboard/mouse and controller
- Performance disparities in frame rates between platforms
- Technical infrastructure variations across gaming networks
- Competitive balance considerations in ranked matches
- PC players connect exclusively through Ubisoft Connect
- PS4 players operate solely within the PlayStation Network
- Account progression stays locked to the original platform
- In-game purchases remain platform-specific
- Friend lists function independently on each platform
| Platform Comparison | PC | PS4 |
|---|---|---|
| Frame Rate Cap | 144+ FPS | 60 FPS |
| Input Methods | Mouse/Keyboard | Controller |
| Network Infrastructure | Ubisoft Connect | PlayStation Network |
| Player Base | PC Only | PS4 Only |
How Cross-Play Works in R6
Rainbow Six Siege’s cross-play system operates through specific platforms groups with defined limitations. The game’s cross-play functionality focuses on maintaining competitive balance while expanding player pools within compatible systems.
Ubisoft Connect Integration
Ubisoft Connect serves as the central hub for R6’s cross-platform features. The platform enables cross-progression between compatible systems like Xbox Series X
|
S Xbox One PlayStation 5 PlayStation 4. Players link their gaming accounts to Ubisoft Connect to access:
- Profile synchronization across supported consoles
- Cross-platform friends lists within console families
- Shared battle pass progress on linked accounts
- Universal currency balances for in-game purchases
- Casual Matches: Cross-play enabled between PS4/PS5 players PS4/PS5 players
- Ranked Matches: Platform-specific matchmaking to maintain competitive integrity
- Custom Games: Cross-play supported within console families
- Training Grounds: Full cross-play support within console ecosystems
- Events: Cross-platform availability based on event type specifications
| Platform Group | Compatible Systems | Supported Modes |
|---|---|---|
| PlayStation | PS4 PS5 | All Modes |
| Xbox | Xbox One Xbox Series X|S | All Modes |
| PC | Windows PC | PC Only |
Technical Requirements for Cross-Platform Gaming
Hardware Specifications
- PlayStation 4: System software version 9.0 or higher
- PC: Windows 10 64-bit operating system
- RAM: Minimum 8GB for PC players
- Internet: Stable broadband connection with 5Mbps download speed
- Storage: 75GB available space on both platforms
Network Requirements
- NAT Type: Open or Moderate
- Port Forwarding: UDP ports 3074 51200-51201
- Latency: Maximum 100ms ping to game servers
- IPv4 connectivity
- Ubisoft Connect account with active subscription
Software Configuration
- Rainbow Six Siege: Latest version installed
- PlayStation Network account linked to Ubisoft Connect
- Cross-play settings enabled in game options
- Platform-specific privacy settings configured to allow multiplayer
- Game chat permissions enabled for communication
- Two-factor authentication activated on Ubisoft account
- Primary platform selected in Ubisoft Connect
- Friend lists synchronized across permitted platforms
- Account verification completed
- Region selection matches intended play area
| Platform | Minimum Internet Speed | Required Ports | Maximum Latency |
|---|---|---|---|
| PS4 | 5 Mbps | 3074 | 100ms |
| PC | 5 Mbps | 51200-51201 | 100ms |
Benefits and Drawbacks of PC-PS4 Cross-Play
Cross-play between PC and PS4 systems presents distinct advantages and significant challenges in Rainbow Six Siege. These factors influence both casual and competitive gameplay experiences.
Competitive Balance Issues
PC players gain substantial competitive advantages through higher frame rates, reduced input lag and enhanced graphics settings. The disparity creates:
- FPS differences ranging from 30-60 on PS4 to 144+ on PC
- Reduced visual clarity on console due to fixed graphics settings
- Network latency variations between platforms
- Matchmaking imbalances in ranked play scenarios
- Performance gaps affecting reaction times and target acquisition
- Mouse aiming enables faster 180-degree turns in 1-2 inches of movement
- Keyboard controls provide access to 104+ customizable keybinds
- Controller aim assist limitations affect precision shooting
- Analog stick movement restricts quick-snap aiming capabilities
- Advanced movement techniques remain exclusive to keyboard controls
| Feature | PC | PS4 |
|---|---|---|
| Max FPS | 144+ | 60 |
| Input Options | Mouse + Keyboard | Controller |
| Graphics Settings | Customizable | Fixed |
| Key Bindings | 104+ | 14 |
| Turn Speed | 1-2 inches | Full stick rotation |
Alternative Ways to Play With Friends on Different Platforms
Using Discord for Communication
Discord bridges the communication gap between PC and PS4 players through voice chat features. Players create a Discord server to coordinate strategies share game updates and maintain team communication across platforms.
Setting Up Custom Games
Custom games offer limited cross-platform options for friends:
- Create private lobbies within compatible platform groups
- Host training grounds sessions with cross-platform teams
- Set up custom game modes with adjusted settings
- Practice strategies in controlled environments
Utilizing Companion Apps
The R6 companion apps enhance cross-platform coordination:
- Track player statistics across platforms
- Monitor friend activities regardless of system
- Schedule gaming sessions with team members
- Share loadouts and operator strategies
Joining Community Events
Community events facilitate cross-platform interaction:
- Participate in platform-specific tournaments
- Join community Discord servers for matchmaking
- Engage in scheduled custom game nights
- Connect with players through R6 forums
- Copy account settings to a new platform
- Transfer in-game currency within platform families
- Maintain operator unlocks on the destination system
- Preserve rank history when switching consoles
| Cross-Platform Features | PC-PC | PS4-PS5 | Within Console Family |
|---|---|---|---|
| Voice Chat | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Custom Games | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Stats Tracking | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Friend Lists | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Ranked Matches | ✓ | ✘ | ✘ |
Cross-platform Gaming Remains Limited
Rainbow Six Siege’s cross-platform gaming remains limited between PC and PS4 players due to technical and competitive considerations. While players can’t bridge the gap between these specific platforms they can still enjoy cross-play within their respective platform families.
The game’s structured approach to cross-platform play prioritizes fair competition while providing opportunities for casual play and training grounds across compatible systems. Players looking to team up with friends on different platforms can utilize alternative communication methods and community events to stay connected.
For the latest updates on R6’s cross-platform capabilities players should monitor official Ubisoft announcements as gaming technology and cross-play features continue to evolve.