Valheim has exploded as one of the most immersive Viking survival games, especially in multiplayer mode. But with a growing player base across consoles and PC, a big question arises: Is Valheim cross platform?
This guide delivers the full breakdown of crossplay support between platforms like Xbox, PlayStation, and PC and explains how to connect with friends across different devices.
Let’s explore every scenario so your Viking crew stays united.
What Is Cross Platform Gaming?
Cross platform (or crossplay) means players on different hardware like PC and console can play together in the same game world.
Benefits of Crossplay in Valheim:
- Unite friends across Xbox and PC
- Grow multiplayer communities
- Extend server life on console editions
- Eliminate platform walls in co-op survival
But not all crossplay is equal. Some platforms support it fully, others have limitations. Let’s dig into Valheim’s status.
Is Valheim Cross Platform Between PC and Xbox?
Yes. Valheim is crossplay compatible between Xbox and PC.
This functionality launched officially with the Microsoft Xbox release, supporting:
- Xbox Series X/S
- Xbox One
- Microsoft Store (PC version)
- Xbox Game Pass (PC)
How It Works:
- Players on Xbox and Game Pass PC editions can join each other’s games seamlessly
- Uses Xbox Live infrastructure
- No mods needed
What You Need:
- Microsoft account
- Updated version of the game on both platforms
- Crossplay setting enabled in the server config or main menu
Valheim crossplay Xbox PC is fully functional and stable.
Is Valheim Crossplay Between Steam and Xbox?
Yes, but with limitations.
Crossplay between Steam PC users and Xbox players is available, but requires:
- Hosting a crossplay-enabled dedicated server
- Using join codes (not Steam invites)
- Both parties updated to the same game version
How to Enable It:
- Add -crossplay launch parameter to server setup
- Share server code with friends
- Use crossplay-compatible server hosts like GPortal or Nitrado
This makes Valheim crossplay PC Xbox viable with some effort.
Is Valheim Cross Platform Between PlayStation and PC?
No. As of now, Valheim is not available on any PlayStation platform.
Details:
- No PS4 or PS5 version has been announced
- No timeline for Sony console support exists
- Players on PlayStation cannot play Valheim, crossplay or not
So, the answer to is Valheim crossplay PS5 PC is a definitive not yet.
Will Valheim Come to PS5 or PS4?
Current Status:
- Iron Gate Studio and publisher Coffee Stain have not confirmed PlayStation development
Community Rumors:
- Some job listings and forum leaks hinted at a broader console port
- Nothing official supports PS5 cross-platform hopes yet
Until further notice, is Valheim cross platform PS5 remains unanswered—and likely not in the near term.
What About Crossplay Between Xbox and Steam Deck?
Yes—with a catch.
The Steam Deck runs the Linux-based SteamOS but can play Valheim via Proton compatibility.
Xbox-Steam Deck Crossplay Steps:
- Host a dedicated crossplay server
- Join using crossplay codes (not friend invites)
- Ensure Proton settings and game versions match
Steam Deck players are technically “Steam users,” so limitations still apply.
Can Valheim Crossplay Between Xbox Cloud Gaming and PC?
Yes. Xbox Cloud Gaming supports cross-platform play with other Xbox Live accounts.
- Use browser or mobile Xbox Game Pass app
- Join PC-hosted or Xbox servers
- Crossplay enabled by default
Valheim crossplay Xbox PC via Cloud Gaming is smooth—ideal for travel play.
Is Valheim Crossplay Between GOG and Steam?
No. GOG version (if released) would require its own support patch.
Currently, Valheim is available through:
- Steam
- Microsoft Store (PC/Xbox)
- Xbox Game Pass
Any future cross-store platform support will depend on matchmaking systems and dedicated server configs.
How to Host a Crossplay Server in Valheim
If you’re serious about consistent multiplayer across platforms, hosting your own server is the best option.
Requirements:
- Enable -crossplay in launch options
- Share 6-character join code
- Avoid using Steam invites
Recommended Hosts:
- GPortal (official partner)
- Nitrado
- Shockbyte
Most offer toggles for Valheim cross platform server setup.
| Platform A | Platform B | Crossplay Available? | Method / Requirements |
| Xbox Series X/S | PC (Microsoft Store) | ✅ Yes | Built-in via Xbox Live; seamless multiplayer |
| Xbox Series X/S | PC (Steam) | ✅ Yes (with setup) | Requires dedicated server, join code, same version, -crossplay flag |
| Xbox Series X/S | Xbox Cloud Gaming | ✅ Yes | Seamless via Xbox account; crossplay by default |
| PC (Steam) | PC (Microsoft Store) | ✅ Yes (with setup) | Requires dedicated crossplay server and version sync |
| Xbox Series X/S | Steam Deck | ✅ Yes (technical) | Via Proton + dedicated server + join code |
| Xbox Series X/S | PlayStation 5 | ❌ No | PlayStation version not released |
| PC (Steam) | PlayStation 5 | ❌ No | Game not available on PlayStation platform |
| PC (Steam) | GOG (if released) | ❌ Not yet | Would need cross-store matchmaking or shared servers |
| Xbox | Xbox | ✅ Yes | Native multiplayer through Xbox Live |
ExitLag: Smooth Crossplay Without Lag
Playing across platforms introduces more network hops, latency, and region sync issues.
ExitLag optimizes your routing for crossplay stability:
- Lowers ping between Xbox and PC players
- Minimizes packet loss across regions
- Stabilizes performance during high traffic
Perfect for Valheim crossplay groups in different countries or on inconsistent ISPs.
Start your Exitlag 3 days Trial!
Crossplay Settings: What to Toggle On
When setting up for cross-platform play:
- Open Valheim launch settings
- Add -crossplay flag (PC host)
- On Xbox, just open multiplayer mode
- Disable password-only access if sharing join codes
Steam players must avoid friend-invite-based hosting. Always use join code method.
Crossplay Gameplay Tips for Co-Op Sessions
Sync Your Builds:
- Use identical mod setups (if applicable)
- Avoid heavy shader mods on Xbox versions
Use Portals Smartly:
- Assign each portal a unique rune code
- Avoid overlap to prevent crash bugs
Shared Maps:
- Steam users can export shared map data
- Xbox players must sync manually through exploration
Use shared chat tools like Discord for voice comms since in-game voice chat is absent.
Do Mods Work in Valheim Crossplay?
PC Mods:
Valheim on Steam supports BepInEx and Thunderstore mods easily.
Xbox/Microsoft Store:
Mods are not supported natively. Microsoft ecosystem keeps console installs sandboxed.
Crossplay Modding Limits:
- If Steam player runs mods, they must not affect game files or items
- Cosmetic mods (e.g., skyboxes) can work without sync issues
- Game-changing mods (e.g., Epic Loot) will desync and crash Xbox clients
Best Practice:
- Run vanilla on all platforms for full compatibility
- Host modded servers for Steam-only crossplay
How to Sync Game Versions for Crossplay
To enable clean multiplayer between platforms, game versions must match precisely.
Xbox Users:
- Auto-updated via Xbox Live
- Check update history if connection fails
Steam Users:
- Update manually or restart Steam
- Check version in main menu bottom-left
Match Versions:
- Use patch notes or community announcements
- Wait for mod creators to update after game patches
Version mismatch = no connection.
Controller Support and Platform Differences
Valheim supports full controller play on all platforms.
Steam:
- Customizable via Steam Input
- Supports Xbox, PlayStation, Switch Pro, and DualSense
Xbox:
- Standard controller usage
- No remap options in-game (must use console settings)
Differences That Impact Gameplay:
- Steam allows rebinding bow draw to triggers
- Xbox has native aim assist for analog sticks
- PC sensitivity feels smoother due to raw input options
Pro Tip:
Use controller for movement, mouse for precision aiming in hybrid setups.
Network Differences in Crossplay
Xbox Network:
- Prioritizes NAT type and multiplayer restrictions
- Often smoother when hosting with Game Pass PC versions
Steam/PC Network:
- Allows dedicated server setups
- More modding flexibility
Common Errors:
- NAT type mismatch (Xbox)
- Join code failures due to outdated versions
- Server timeout from poor routing
ExitLag: The Ultimate Crossplay Fix
Multiplatform games introduce complex routing challenges.
ExitLag solves cross-platform lag by:
- Optimizing traffic across Xbox Live and Steam servers
- Prioritizing multiplayer packet delivery
- Reducing desync in bow aiming, portal sync, and combat
Top Features for Crossplay Players:
- Region locking to reduce foreign server mismatch
- Dynamic routing that adapts per platform
- FPS stabilization during large builds or raids
Advanced Tips for Dedicated Crossplay Servers
Tip #1: Use GPortal With Crossplay Flag
- Choose ‘Enable Crossplay’ at checkout
- Keep mods OFF if Xbox users are joining
Tip #2: Custom Join Codes
- Host generates 6-letter join code
- Works across Microsoft and Steam versions
Tip #3: Map and Inventory Syncing
- Use SteamCloud or backups for shared saves (Steam only)
- Xbox players must manually progress
Valheim Crossplay and Voice Chat Tools
Valheim lacks built-in voice chat.
Best Solutions:
- Discord (desktop + Xbox app)
- Xbox Game Chat overlay (console-only)
- Steam Chat Voice (Steam-only)
Discord remains the best solution for cross-device coordination.
Platform-Specific Performance and FPS
Xbox:
- 60 FPS cap on Series X/S
- Some stuttering during portal transitions
- Stable draw distance
PC:
- Unlocked FPS with VSync toggle
- Better lighting and water shaders
- Modding can reduce or improve FPS
Use ExitLag for smoother frame delivery during biome loading and raids.
Crossplay-Friendly Game Settings
To ensure smooth experiences:
- Set same Draw Distance across devices
- Disable Motion Blur for consistent PvP visibility
- Use Simple Graphics on Xbox for portal-heavy builds
Final Thoughts
Crossplay in Valheim is real—and powerful.
By understanding mod limits, syncing versions, adapting controller strategies, and relying on tools like ExitLag, you can enjoy the Valheim cross platform experience at its fullest.
Whether you’re building a stronghold or slaying Yagluth, cross-device unity brings the Viking saga to life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Xbox players use mods in Valheim?
No. Mods are not supported on console versions.
Do I need the same Valheim version on Xbox and PC?
Yes. Both platforms must match versions for multiplayer.
What’s the best voice chat for crossplay?
Discord. It’s accessible on all platforms and easy to sync.
Does controller gameplay differ on PC vs Xbox?
Yes. Steam allows remapping and hybrid setups, while Xbox is more limited.
How does ExitLag help crossplay?
It reduces latency, packet loss, and route conflicts across platforms.
Disclaimers
All game images used in this blog belong to Iron Gate Studio. They are used for informational/educational purposes only and do not imply endorsement or affiliation with the rights holders.
