Today, gaming is the best it’s ever been. Rejoice!!
Of all the advances we’ve made in the last 20 years, I think cross-platform games are one of the best, alongside game graphics and a few others.
We waited a long time for big players like Microsoft and Sony to turn into cross play platforms – and we got it. So here are our top 15 choices for cross platform games.
Keep in mind that there are new games released daily and updates to games happen even more often – so the most popular game of all time can depend on, well…the time! Game on!
What Exactly Are Cross-Play Games?
For anyone just joining our community, cross play games are games that can be played over different gaming systems.
For example, someone could be playing Call of Duty: Modern Warfare on their PS4 against someone playing on their Xbox One without any hiccups or hardware issues.
You’ll find more accessible games leaning towards being cross play, as it allows for more versatility and gameplay options.
Cross-platform is still in its early stages, and only a few popular games are fully cross-play.
What Are Cross-Gen Games?
Cross generation games are games that have been released for two or more console generations. The best examples of cross gen games are those in the Grand Theft Auto franchise or the Assassin’s Creed series.
This doesn’t mean backward compatibility; we’re talking a full new release on a new console, like GTA 5, Far Cry 4, and Call of Duty: Black Ops III.
Shouldn’t All Games Be Cross-Play?
In an ideal world, yes! But it’s just that, an ideal world. It may very well turn out to be the way things are handled in the future, but for now, there are some road bumps.
A big reason that developing cross platform gaming is expensive. It costs a ton to be able to port your game to the different systems and make sure that it’s running smoothly, regardless of cross-play activities online.
It took Sony a little while to allow for Fortnite crossplay on their PS4 system.
It can also prove to be more trouble than it is worth for many developers. Companies like Sony and Microsoft can afford to experiment. Still, many game studios merely want the player to actually play their game on the system and hardware it was created for.
Developers need to ensure things are running smoothly in terms of coding and programming, as well as player input and how that could interfere with other players’ actions.
Basically, developing cross play games is a lot more complicated than it looks! And let me tell you, cross-play hasn’t been very well received by the masses, more on that below.
You may ask yourself, what games are currently cross-platform? What are the best cross-platform games? Luckily for you, I have compiled a list to let you know all of that and more. Let’s start with our top 15 cross-play games – enjoy!
But First, What Do You Mean Not EVERYONE Loves Cross-Play?
Well, it seems like a lot of shade is being thrown at PC gamers – hear me out.
First of all, it’s very safe to make the assumption that precision with a mouse and keyboard trumps controllers…by far. This is a fact but doesn’t apply to those who use PC controllers.
That’s not the biggest part of the story, though. With PC comes the ability to cheat – made easy. And this is definitely not to say that all PC gamers cheat. But it seems like the majority of cross-play cheating is coming from PC gamers.
Breaking into a console and making adjustments is a lot of work, but on a PC, it’s merely a few clicks away. Since 2021, big cross-platform games like COD: Warzone’s free-to-play battle royales is one example of cheating becoming a really big issue.
But hey, there’s always the option to turn off cross play abilities, although it can lead to slower matchmaking – it can be perceived as a lose-lose.
At the end of it all, we make do with what we have and the lot of it is super exciting. Plus, as I mentioned before, this is just the beginning of cross platform games. We’re keeping our eyes peeled on the industry and will, of course, keep you posted.
Now, without further ado – here are our top 15 cross platform games:
Top 15 Cross Platform Games
So how do we choose the best cross platform games? Here’s our top criteria:
1. Aesthetic gameplay
2. High competition or customization
3. Seamless gameplay
4. Different gameplay mode options
5. Free is always a plus
6. Team and RPG modes
7. Memorable characters
8. Quality cross-play platform integrations
This isn’t to say that all the games in our list of the best cross platform games will have all seven criteria we listed above – but rather it’s a general list of what makes a game addictive to us.
Ready? Let’s dive right in – keep in mind this list is in no particular order:
Fortnite
The undisputed king of battle royale games, and arguably the best cross-platform game, Fortnite is a gaming sensation. Regardless of the merchandise, memes, and culture, the game itself is truly groundbreaking.
Through cross-platform play, players can build forts, and gun down other players in an addictive, competitive battle royale. Fortnite has become so successful that many games are coming out with multiplayer modes including battle royale.
Is Fortnite Cross Platform?
As mentioned above, yes, Fortnite crossplay is very popular and runs across the following systems:
▪ PS4
▪ Xbox One
▪ Switch
▪ PC
▪ Mobile
Rocket League
Fans of both RC cars and soccer, (or football depending on your location), will be right at home here. The fast, aggressive, and addicting gameplay was released in 2013 and has been pretty popular ever since. It’s great customization, multiple game modes with eSports emphasis, Rocket league is easily going to be popular for years to come.
Is Rocket League Cross Platform?
Rocket League is a cross platform game and fans are loving it! Currently, Rocket League crossplay doesn’t reach as far as mobile, but that’s no deal breaker. You can join in this cross-platform fun if you run the following systems:
▪ PS4
▪ Xbox One
▪ Switch
▪ PC
Minecraft
There truly is nothing like building amazingly creative structures with friends. I have spent many hours messing around with friends, sometimes blowing up their houses, helping them mine in caverns, and build amazing buildings that exhibit creativity.
I will never forget the feeling of running from nighttime monsters, trying to get back to my house as quickly as possible.
Is Minecraft Cross Platform?
Yes, but to play Minecraft cross platform you’ll have to be on the same edition as your cross console friends. The wildly popular and iconic cube-based building game has been a household name for nearly a decade now and is available for cross platform play on the following:
▪ PS4
▪ Xbox One
▪ Switch
▪ PC
▪ Mobile
Chess Ultra
What’s a more strategic game than the perennial classic of chess? This game brings deep thinking and long, competitive play to different platforms. If you are a chess fan like I am, you will no doubt love this title. If you aren’t, then maybe skip this one. But if you are interested in learning chess and facing off against others, this is a great place to start.
Yes! Chess Ultra is one of the best cross-platform games of its kind.
Since The Queen’s Gambit, the popularity of chess has skyrocketed – looking forward to playing against some up-and-coming grandmasters across these platforms:
▪ PS4
▪ Xbox One
▪ Switch
▪ PC
Ark: Survival Evolved
Dinosaurs. Need I say more?
Okay, fine, I will. Dinosaurs!
That’s what this cross-platform game is all about. Okay, it’s a little more nuanced.
Players face off in multiplayer gameplay with DINOSAURS. You need to survive on an island with other players. Like many survival games, you can help your friends survive, grief players, (c’mon, don’t do this), and more.
Is Ark Cross Platform?
Ark Survival crossplay is still in its infancy – only 2 cross play platforms are supported so far.
Here’s hoping that it migrates to the other platforms shortly, but for now, you can cross-play via:
▪ Xbox One
▪ PC
Trailblazers
Now, this is just plain old fun. Trailblazers is a racing game where you paint the track as you go. It’s like if Super Mario Sunshine had an addictive racing mechanic.
This game will have you playing match after match, getting bonuses from painting the track, and helping out your fellow teammates as the extremely beautiful gameplay immerses you in a wild, wacky, but vibrant world.
Is Trailblazers Cross Platform?
Trailblazers cross platform gaming is available across all major channels, minus mobile. Have fun getting creative across these platforms:
▪ PS4
▪ Xbox One
▪ Switch
▪ PC
Dauntless
One of the three truly cross-platform titles, Dauntless is an action roleplaying game by Epic games. It’s free to play and has a great aesthetic.
Not only that, but the gameplay is addictive, and is often compared to the popular Monster Hunter franchise by Capcom.
You are a Slayer, tasked with taking down beasts called Behemoths. Like Monster Hunter, the player will use the materials collected from slaying monsters to make more powerful gear to take on more hardcore foes.
Is Dauntless Cross Platform?
Like I said, Dauntless is one of the top three cross platform games. Dauntless crossplay is seamless and very entertaining. Play across these platforms:
▪ PS4
▪ Xbox One
▪ Switch
▪ PC
Sea of Thieves
Channeling the whimsical and cartoonish style of the Monkey Island games, Sea of Thieves gives you the freedom to become a pirate; something that I think we can all agree rules.
There’s no feeling quite like sailing the seas with your buddies cross-platform. Of course, being a pirate, your ‘goal’ is to get loot, fight other pirates, and become infamous on the high seas.
Is Sea of Thieves Cross Platform?
Sea of Thieves crossplay is currently limited. Eventually – hopefully – they’ll open up to more consoles and systems, but as I mentioned earlier – it’s not as simple a process as it might seem. If you own any of the following, then you’re ready to take Sea of Thieves cross platform:
▪ Xbox One
▪ PC
Guns of Icarus Online
If you are looking for some teamwork in your crossplay games, this will be right up your alley.
In this game, you and friends can control different aspects of airships, heavily based on the steampunk genre. You have many choices for a ship like the Galleon, Junker, and Squid to name a few.
All of them are unique and have their pros and cons. Players can choose either gunner, pilot, or engineer for a blend of great, smooth gameplay.
Is Guns of Icarus Online Cross Platform?
Although not yet available on big time consoles like Xbox One, you can cross play across the following:
▪ PS4
▪ Microsoft Windows
▪ OS X
▪ Linux
Tooth and Tail
Tooth and Tail is a truly unique cross-platform real-time strategy game developed by Pocketwatch Games.
Using a quirky art style to display armies of anthropomorphic mice fighting for different political ideologies and resources, Tooth and Tail puts gamers in the role of freedom fighters.
Like all RTS titles, the emphasis is on gathering resources and utterly vanquishing your enemy.
Is Tooth and Tail Cross Platform?
The unique style of Tooth and Tail makes it one of the best crossplay games in terms of the aesthetics. You can crossplay via these platforms:
▪ PS4
▪ Microsoft Windows
▪ Linux
▪ macOS
War Thunder
Fans of vehicular combat and vehicular components of combat games like Battlefield will eat this right up.
In War Thunder, in the free cross platform games category, the players are given access to numerous war vehicles, mainly emphasizing those found in the World War II era. You can either engage enemies in Arcade mode or Realistic mode.
More casual players looking for a fun time would probably choose arcade, and those looking for a challenge should pick realistic. Realistic is exactly that: more realistic damage, physics, and more.
Is War Thunder Cross Platform?
Yes, it is! War Thunder Cross Platform is slightly limited, for example, it does not include Switch or PC. Here are the platforms you can crossplay with this game:
▪ PS4
▪ Xbox One
▪ Microsoft Windows
▪ Linux
▪ macOS
Gwent: The Witcher Card Game
Fans of Hearthstone recognized the great gameplay of Gwent, the card game featured in the wildly popular game series. No longer relegated to a completely optional side aspect of a fuller game, Gwent takes the great art style and vibe of the games it’s derived from to bring you into a rich and detailed world consisting entirely of cards and gameplay.
It has a single-player standalone version called Thronebreaker: The Witcher Tales for those who simply wish to hone their skills against a computer.
Is Gwent Cross Platform?
Yes, Gwent understood the assignment when we asked for cross platform games, well, at least for the top two consoles. Here’s where you can play Gwent: The Witcher Card Game cross platform with your friends:
▪ PS4
▪ Xbox One
▪ Microsoft Windows
Hearthstone
A classic card game, I’d be surprised if you haven’t heard of this addictive card game. Not only is it a great, solid game from Blizzard, but it is also free to play, so you can play to your heart’s content along with buds and foes alike.
Players use 30 cards to defeat the opposing player’s deck using superior card values and strategic setups to dominate the game. Through microtransactions alone, Blizzard Entertainment has been steadily gaining 40 million dollars monthly.
Now that’s popularity. This game was developed by a smaller wing of Blizzard, and this team has truly knocked it out of the park with their concerted efforts.
Is Hearthstone Cross Platform?
Not your typical cross platform game, this one doesn’t reach the likes of Sony and Xbox. And yet, its’ popularity simply can’t be ignored. This is one of the best cross platform games that also happens to be free! Play among each other via:
▪ Microsoft Windows
▪ macOS
▪ iOS
▪ Android
Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn
After being rebranded as A Realm Reborn due to an extremely negative backlash to the original game, this MMORPG was a second attempt to right some gaming wrongs. All the staples of a great MMORPG are here: experience points, great quests, and more.
If you’re a fan of the Final Fantasy franchise, this is a really easy decision of a purchase. Each patch and expansion released by the developers add new aspects and progression to the plot of the in-game world, making the player feel that they are taking place in a pivotal point in the world of Hydaelyn.
This is a great second shot at a title, and thankfully they delivered.
Is Final Fantasy 14 Cross Platform?
Final Fantasy 14 cross platform doesn’t reach Microsoft’s leading console, but this cross play is a force to be reckoned with. Here’s where you can join the crossplay action:
▪ PS4
▪ PC
▪ OS X
▪ PS3
Eve: Valkyrie
Set in the EVE Online universe, Valkyrie is a dogfighting simulator that pits the player versus others in exhilarating space combat. As one of the most exciting fighting games was developed exclusively for the Oculus Rift and empathizes compatibility with virtual reality technology.
You can play this game single-player, but it emphasizes multiplayer heavily. PvP is the name of the game, and you’ll be shooting enemies out of the sky in no time. I think us flight simulator fans, fans of games like Wing Commander, have been waiting for a great little title like this to hold us over for the next big flight sim.
Is Eve: Valkyrie Cross Platform?
Eve: Valkyrie is a cross-platform game across the following:
▪ PS4
▪ PC
Paladins: Champions of the Realm
This game is all about teamwork folks; there will be no glory hogs ruining it for everyone. This free to play online shooter puts you in the role of either a magistrate or paladin, two factions who are combating each other. You need to be in constant contact with team members if you want to win a match.
You have all the gameplay modes you love: team deathmatch, ranked, onslaught, (in which teams battle over a map for points), and the base game mode, siege. These great gameplay modes, along with a creative mix of sci-fi and fantasy will satisfy more competitive gamers out there.
Is Paladins Cross Platform?
Paladins crossplay is on point. It covers the top three consoles and as well PC. I would say that Paladins cross platform efforts a definite win.
▪ PS4
▪ Xbox One
▪ Switch
▪ PC
Phantasy Star Online 2
Based on the RPG Phantasy Star Universe, Phantasy Star Online 2 allows players to enter a rich and diverse action-RPG world. Along with in-depth customization, Phantasy Star Online 2 gives the players a wide array of different futuristic weapons to use. Fans of RPGs, science fiction, and previous games in the series will feel right at home here.
Is Phantasy Star Online 2 Cross Platform?
Yes – and Phantasy Star Online 2 cross play covers an area we haven’t touched on yet in this review of the top 15 crossplay games – Playstation Vita. Here’s everywhere else you can experience crossplay with this game:
▪ PS4
▪ Xbox One
▪ Switch
▪ Microsoft Windows
▪ iOS
▪ Android
▪ Playstation Vita
Gears of War 4
We join new characters 25 years after the events of the previous entry in the series, Gears 3.
In it, we follow the story of the previous protagonist, Marcus Fenix, as they battle a new threat after vanquishing the Locust hordes. This game is a return to what we all loved about the Gears franchise: great gunplay, solid action, and memorable characters. Horde mode is back, and you’ll be gearing up repeatedly to beat your previous score with friends. It has a great variety of weapons and an even more intense multiplayer experience.
Although some have said the campaign feels a little too short, the other features more than make up for it.
Gears of War 4 cross platform keeps it simple with only allowing crossplay via:
▪ Xbox One
▪ PC
Crackdown 3
I was so hyped for the new entry in the Crackdown series. I wasn’t too crazy about the second game, but the first Crackdown game was one of the most creative third-person shooters ever. It looks like the third will pick up that tradition again.
The player plays like a futuristic soldier on the trail of a terrorist superweapon called the Chimera. You level up the more you do things, like jumping and shooting.
This is a great incentive to engage in nearly all activities, allowing you to access new areas that you couldn’t get to before, and newer weapons. You are a superhero, with your powers easily becoming overwhelming to enemies and you feel like a badass.
Is Crackdown 3 Cross Platform?
As far as cross platform games go – Crackdown 3 only covers one major console. I look forward to Crackdown 3 opening themselves up to new platforms in the years to come. Currently, you can crossplay with:
▪ Xbox One
▪ PC
Halo Wars 2
If you are looking to return to the familiar future world of Master Chief and the Covenant, you’re in luck. Halo Wars 2 is the sequel to the popular Halo Wars, a real-time strategy game that feels like you’re personally directing a Halo action film.
In it, you’ll have control of tons of different units, utilizing the rock-paper-scissors counterattack style, making the player adapt their play style to dominate the enemy forces.
Is Halo Wars 2 Cross Platform?
Yes, but much like some other favorites, you can only crossplay with Halo Wars 2 via Xbox One and PC. Fingers crossed developers are able to put the hours in to open up for more platforms to cross play. If you’re interested, Halo Infinite crossplay is also available across Xbox One and PC.
▪ Xbox One
▪ PC
Crossplay Support
Here are the different games by support level.
Full Cross-Platform Support
- Fortnite
- Rocket League
- Dauntless
- Paladins: Champions of the Realm
Partial Cross-Platform Support
- Minecraft
- Guns of Icarus Online
- War Thunder
- Hearthstone
- Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn
- Eve: Valkyrie
- Chess Ultra
- Trailblazers
- Tooth and Tail
- Phantasy Star Online 2
In Conclusion
There you have it, the top 20 cross-platform games. It doesn’t matter which platform you play these titles on; chances are you’ll have plenty of people to play with and share some seriously great gamer moments. Keep in mind that the benefits of video games are real – so choose to play games that can help hone a skill instead of passive mind play. Most of the games we mentioned above are beneficial to things like hand-eye coordination, better decision making capabilities, and more.
If you’re interested in becoming part of the game development community – check out our reads to learn C++, everything you need to know about roblox scripting, a deep dive into video game designer education, and more!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cross-platform gaming possible?
Yes. Not only is it possible, but cross-platform gaming is becoming more and more popular amongst game developers and especially players.
Which games are cross-platform?
The most famous cross platform games out now are Fortnite, Minecraft, and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare. These include the Switch, PS4, PC Xbox cross-play games to add to your collection like Street Fighter V and Rocket League.
What are CrossPlay Games?
Multiple games allow for cross-play, and it might very well be the next big technological leap to make entire libraries available cross-platform. Crossplay means that you can play against friends that use different systems or consoles.
What is Cross-Network play?
Cross-network play, also called crossplay, is when players are able to play the game across different online networks.
Can you play online between Xbox and PlayStation?
Yes, with specific cross-play titles, you can play the same game that was released for both systems.
What games are Crossplay with Xbox and PC?
Xbox Play Anywhere games allow for play on Xbox and PC once the title is bought. Some of these include Gears of War 4, Crackdown 3, and Sea of Thieves.
Can you play on PC and Xbox together?
Yes, you can play games like Fortnite on PC and Xbox simultaneously – this is called crossplay, which requires cross platform games.
What games can PC play with Xbox?
- Cuphead
- Fallout Shelter
- Forza Motorsport 7
- Hello Neighbor
- Halo Wars: Definitive Edition
- Middle-earth: Shadow of War
Can you play with Xbox players on PC?
Yes. Cross platform games like Fortnite and more allow you to play right alongside Xbox players if you’re on a PC.
What games are Crossplay with PS4 and Xbox?
- No Man’s Sky
- Brawlhalla
- World of Warships: Legends
- Mortal Kombat 11
- NBA 2K20
- PUBG
- Sniper Elite V2 Remastered
Does PS4 have Crossplay?
Like other major systems, PS4 does offer cross-play.
What PS4 games are cross-platform?
- Black Desert
- Fantasy Strike
- Fortnite
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare
- Minecraft: PlayStation 4 Edition
- No Man’s Sky
- Hunt: Showdown
- Super Mega Baseball 2 & 3
- World of Warships
How do you Cross-Play with Xbox and PS4?
To cross-play on Xbox and PS4, you simply need to boot up your game, make your way to the multiplayer section, and start a game! No unique bells and whistles or complicated setup required.
