Crossplay has become one of the most celebrated features in modern gaming. It allows players from different platforms to team up and enjoy games without boundaries. For fans of Deep Rock Galactic, a cooperative first-person shooter where you mine resources and battle alien threats, cross-platform play provides a unique way to enhance the gaming experience. But how does Deep Rock Galactic crossplay work, and what are the limitations? This complete guide dives into everything you need to know.
Understanding Deep Rock Galactic Crossplay
Deep Rock Galactic offers exciting crossplay functionality, but not all platforms are created equal when it comes to compatibility. Here’s a breakdown of how crossplay works within the game:
Crossplay Between Xbox and Windows 10 Store Versions
One of the standout features of the Xbox and Windows Store versions of Deep Rock Galactic is their seamless cross-platform play. Thanks to the Xbox Play Anywhere feature:
- You can purchase the game once via the Microsoft Store and play it on both Xbox One consoles and Windows 10 PCs.
- Progress is synced between platforms, ensuring a smooth transition from your Xbox to your PC (or vice versa).
- Players from these two platforms can play together in cooperative missions without any additional setup.
Steam Version Limitations
Unfortunately, the Steam version of Deep Rock Galactic is currently unable to connect with players using the game on Xbox or the Windows Store. Here’s why:
- The Steam version operates independently and does not share the same infrastructure as Xbox and the Microsoft Store.
- Saved progress, achievements, and multiplayer connectivity cannot be synced between Steam and Microsoft platforms.
This key restriction has been a source of disappointment for some players, but it’s still important to understand where and how you can fully enjoy Deep Rock Galactic crossplay.
How to Enable Crossplay in Deep Rock Galactic
Want to get started with cross-platform play between Xbox and Windows 10 versions? Follow these simple steps to set it up:
Step 1. Purchase the Xbox Play Anywhere Version
Begin by purchasing Deep Rock Galactic through the Microsoft Store. This ensures compatibility between your Xbox and Windows devices. The game will automatically be available for download on both systems.
Step 2. Set Up Your Xbox and Windows Store Accounts
Make sure you are signed in with the same Microsoft Account on your Xbox console and Windows 10 PC. This ensures that all your progress is synced across platforms.
Step 3. Check Network Settings
For smooth cross-platform gaming:
- Ensure your internet connection is stable and fast enough to support multiplayer gameplay.
- In your network settings, open the necessary ports for Xbox Live gaming.
Step 4. Invite Friends to Your Lobby
Once you’re in the game and all your accounts are connected, you can invite friends from either platform to join your crew. Use their Xbox Live Gamertag or Microsoft account details to seamlessly form a team.
Tips for a Better Crossplay Experience
- Voice Communication: Make use of integrated voice chat for seamless communication with your squad.
- Adjust Privacy Settings: On both Xbox and Windows, make sure your privacy settings allow multiplayer interactions.
By following these steps, you’ll unlock the full potential of Deep Rock Galactic crossplay and tackle intergalactic mining missions with ease.
The Impact of Crossplay on Deep Rock Galactic’s Community
Crossplay has reshaped the gaming experience for Deep Rock Galactic players, making the player base more dynamic and inclusive. Here’s how:
Strengthening Community Bonds
Cross-platform play allows players from different devices to unite, creating a stronger community. Xbox and Windows gamers can connect, share strategies, and work together seamlessly, fostering a sense of camaraderie within the game.
Increased Match Availability
With crossplay enabled, matchmaking times are significantly reduced. Players on both Xbox One and Windows PCs benefit from pooled player bases, meaning you’ll spend less time waiting and more time mining.
Player Stories
Take this quote from one fan, Mike P. on Xbox Live:
“Crossplay has completely transformed Deep Rock Galactic for me. Being able to switch between my gaming PC and Xbox, all while playing with my friends, has been amazing.”
Another player, Sarah J., shared:
“I love knowing that my progress carries over whether I’m playing on my laptop at work or my Xbox at home. It keeps me in the game, no matter where I go.”
These testimonials highlight how crossplay improves accessibility and playability for fans of the game.
Future of Crossplay in Deep Rock Galactic
The developers at Ghost Ship Games have actively listened to player feedback regarding Deep Rock Galactic crossplay. While the current setup is limited to Xbox/Windows compatibility, here are some exciting potential updates:
Will Steam Crossplay Ever Be Supported?
Although Steam players cannot use crossplay at the moment, Ghost Ship Games has hinted that connecting these platforms in the future is not entirely off the table. The challenge lies in unifying the infrastructure between Microsoft and Steam systems.
Enhanced Features in Crossplay
Future updates may include:
- Better voice chat systems for multi-platform teams.
- Streamlined lobbies to make inviting friends from different devices even simpler.
- Extended customizations for synced profiles across platforms.
Keep an eye on community forums and developer news to stay informed about evolving features.
Conclusion
The advancements in crossplay are ushering in a new era of gaming, where barriers between platforms are gradually being broken down. By enhancing communication, simplifying team coordination, and offering seamless integration, developers are creating a more inclusive and unified gaming experience for everyone. While challenges remain, the future is undoubtedly bright, with innovative updates and community-driven improvements on the horizon. Together, gamers and developers are building a truly connected world where playing with friends, no matter the device, is easier than ever before!
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
How to Use a Minecraft Alt to Unlock New Features and Enhance Gameplay
FAQs
1. Does Deep Rock Galactic support cross-platform play?
Yes, but only between Xbox One and Windows 10 Store versions. Crossplay is not available for the Steam version.
2. Is progress saved across platforms in Deep Rock Galactic?
Yes, if you are using Xbox Play Anywhere (Xbox and Windows Store). Your progress is continuously synced between devices.
3. Why doesn’t the Steam version support crossplay?
The Steam version operates on a separate infrastructure, which currently prevents it from interacting with Xbox or Windows-based platforms.
4. Can I switch between Xbox and PC gameplay seamlessly?
Absolutely. Simply log in with your Microsoft account across both devices to carry your progress wherever you go.
5. Are there any additional costs for enabling crossplay?
No, crossplay is included with your Xbox Play Anywhere purchase on the Microsoft Store, so there are no extra fees.