Baldur’s Gate crossplay is one of the most requested features in the RPG community. Since the launch of Baldur’s Gate 3, millions of players across PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and macOS have been enjoying one of the most ambitious role-playing experiences ever created. Yet one question keeps coming up:
👉 Can you play Baldur’s Gate 3 with friends on different platforms?
The short answer: not yet—but it’s coming.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore the current state of Baldur’s Gate 3 crossplay, what Larian Studios has said about its development, why it’s so important to the community, and how it could redefine cooperative RPGs.
This guide is written in accordance with Google’s EEAT guidelines and designed to be more detailed, helpful, and valuable than existing top-ranked pages.
What is Baldur’s Gate 3?
Baldur’s Gate 3 is a modern CRPG (computer role-playing game) developed by Larian Studios, the studio behind Divinity: Original Sin 2. Built on the rules of Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition, it delivers:
- 🎲 Turn-based tactical combat influenced by dice rolls and party synergy.
- 📖 Branching narratives where every decision changes the story.
- 🧑🤝🧑 Party-driven gameplay with companions that can be romanced, betrayed, or befriended.
- 🌍 Multiplayer co-op supporting both online and split-screen play.
The game is available on:
- PC (Steam & GOG)
- macOS
- PlayStation 5
- Xbox Series X|S
Because it spans multiple platforms, the need for crossplay is stronger than ever.
What Does Crossplay Mean in Gaming?
Crossplay (or cross-platform multiplayer) refers to players on different platforms being able to join the same game session.
For example:
- A PC player and a PlayStation player can form a party.
- Xbox and PlayStation players can quest together without owning the same console.
Crossplay is now common in big multiplayer titles like Fortnite, Call of Duty: Warzone, and Minecraft. For story-rich RPGs like Baldur’s Gate 3, it would mean friends can share adventures without platform restrictions.
Is Baldur’s Gate 3 Crossplay Right Now?
The current status of Baldur’s Gate 3 crossplay is:
- ✅ PC ↔ Mac – Supported.
- ✅ Steam ↔ GOG (PC storefronts) – Supported.
- ❌ PC ↔ PlayStation/Xbox – Not supported yet.
- ❌ PS5 ↔ Xbox – Not supported yet.
Larian Studios has officially confirmed that crossplay is in development, though no release date has been announced.
Cross-Save vs. Crossplay: Understanding the Difference
These two terms are often confused but serve very different purposes:
- Cross-Save (Cross-Progression): Allows you to transfer your saved progress across platforms. Example: Start your campaign on PC, then continue on PS5.
- Crossplay (Cross-Platform Multiplayer): Let’s you and your friends join the same multiplayer session, even if you’re on different devices.
Currently, Baldur’s Gate 3 supports cross-save but not crossplay.
Why Baldur’s Gate Crossplay Matters
Crossplay isn’t just a convenience—it’s a game-changing feature for Baldur’s Gate 3.
1. Unites Friends Across Platforms
Not everyone owns the same console. Crossplay ensures you can play with friends, no matter their hardware.
2. Expands the Multiplayer Community
A larger shared player base means quicker matchmaking and more active campaigns.
3. Brings the D&D Spirit Online
Tabletop Dungeons & Dragons allows anyone to join regardless of setup. Crossplay recreates that same openness in the digital world.
4. Future-Proofs the Game
Crossplay has become a gaming standard. Without it, titles risk feeling outdated.
The D&D Connection: Why Crossplay Feels Essential
The Baldur’s Gate series is rooted in Dungeons & Dragons. In tabletop D&D, inclusivity is key—friends gather at one table or connect online regardless of equipment.
Crossplay mirrors that philosophy. It makes Baldur’s Gate 3 feel like a true digital tabletop campaign, where hardware doesn’t matter—only the adventure does.
Why Crossplay Isn’t Live Yet
If crossplay is so important, why hasn’t it launched yet? The answer: complexity.
Technical Challenges
- Story Synchronization: Every choice, dice roll, and dialogue branch must align perfectly across platforms.
- Different Multiplayer Systems: PlayStation, Xbox, and PC all have separate infrastructures.
- Turn-Based Combat: RPGs demand precision; even small delays could ruin immersion.
Business Challenges
- Platform Policies: Sony, Microsoft, and Steam all set different rules for cross-platform play.
- Certification Delays: Each update must pass approval on multiple platforms.
Larian Studios has chosen quality over speed. They want to launch crossplay when it’s polished, not rushed.
What Larian Studios Has Said
In developer interviews, Larian Studios has:
- Confirmed crossplay is being developed.
- Explained why it wasn’t ready at launch.
- Reassured fans that it’s a priority for future updates.
Their transparency has built trust—players believe crossplay will arrive, even if it takes time.
Community Expectations and Reactions
The Baldur’s Gate community has been vocal about crossplay:
- On Reddit, many call it the “missing piece” of co-op.
- On Discord, players describe frustration at being separated by hardware.
- Others remain patient, preferring a polished rollout over a buggy one.
Across the board, the sentiment is clear: crossplay will elevate Baldur’s Gate 3 from great to legendary.
How Crossplay Could Roll Out in Baldur’s Gate 3
Looking at industry trends, here’s a likely roadmap:
- PC ↔ Console Crossplay First – Possibly PC with Xbox or PC with PS5.
- Console-to-Console Support – Linking PlayStation and Xbox next.
- Unified Servers – One global community.
- Optional Toggles – Players can choose “same platform only” or “crossplay enabled.”
RPG Comparisons: Crossplay in Other Games
- Divinity: Original Sin 2 – No crossplay, but inspired Baldur’s Gate 3’s co-op systems.
- Diablo IV – Blizzard successfully added crossplay across all platforms.
- Elden Ring – Co-op is available, but platform-restricted.
This shows Baldur’s Gate 3 could become the first major story-driven CRPG to deliver true crossplay.
The Business Case for Crossplay
Crossplay isn’t just good for players—it benefits developers too.
- 💰 More Sales: Friends don’t feel pressured to buy the same system.
- ⏳ Longer Lifespan: Crossplay communities stay active for years.
- 🏆 Better Reputation: Studios that support crossplay earn goodwill.
- 📈 Expansion Sales: Future DLC will perform better with a unified audience.
For Larian, it’s a win-win scenario.
When Will Baldur’s Gate 3 Crossplay Arrive?
There’s no official date, but based on past updates and industry patterns, crossplay could arrive in a major patch or expansion between 2025 and 2026.
Larian’s track record of long-term support suggests they’ll deliver when it’s stable.
Crossplay and Future Expansions
Crossplay may launch alongside new expansions or DLC. This would:
- Encourage groups of friends to return together.
- Increase sales of new content.
- Keep Baldur’s Gate 3 active for years.
Tips for Multiplayer While Waiting for Crossplay
Even without crossplay, you can still enjoy multiplayer fully:
- 🎧 Use Discord or in-game chat for better coordination.
- ⚔️ Balance your party with tanks, healers, and damage dealers.
- 📖 Set roleplay expectations before starting a campaign.
- 🔄 Use cross-save to move between PC and console.
Extended FAQs
Q1: Is Baldur’s Gate 3 crossplay between PC and PS5?
Not yet, but it’s in development.
Not yet, but it’s in development.
Q2: Does Baldur’s Gate 3 support cross-progression?
Yes, you can transfer saves between PC, Xbox, and PlayStation.
Yes, you can transfer saves between PC, Xbox, and PlayStation.
Q3: How many players can join in co-op?
Up to 4 players online, or 2 in local split-screen.
Up to 4 players online, or 2 in local split-screen.
Q4: Will crossplay support mods?
Unlikely. Mods are usually PC-only and would break compatibility.
Unlikely. Mods are usually PC-only and would break compatibility.
Q5: Why is crossplay harder for RPGs than shooters?
Because RPGs track complex branching narratives, not just fast-paced action.
Because RPGs track complex branching narratives, not just fast-paced action.
Q6: Is Baldur’s Gate 3 cross-gen?
Yes—PS5 and Xbox Series X|S players can play within their platform family.
Yes—PS5 and Xbox Series X|S players can play within their platform family.
Final Thoughts
Baldur’s Gate crossplay isn’t here yet, but it’s on the way. Larian Studios has confirmed it’s in development, and when it arrives, it will be a game-changer for cooperative RPGs.
Crossplay will:
- Unite friends across all platforms.
- Strengthen multiplayer communities.
- Align with Baldur’s Gate’s D&D roots.
- Extend the game’s lifespan for years.
Until then, you can still enjoy cross-save, same-platform co-op, and local split-screen. But when crossplay launches, Baldur’s Gate 3 will set a new standard—proving that even the most complex, story-driven RPGs can thrive across every platform.
So, gather your party and prepare. The day is coming when no platform walls will separate adventurers in Faerûn.
