Is Elden Ring Cross-Platform? The Definitive Answer
If you’ve found yourself asking whether Elden Ring supports cross-platform play, the answer is straightforward: no, it does not. Players are unable to team up with friends across different systems—PC users can only connect with other PC gamers, while console players are confined to their respective platforms. However, there is good news for players looking to switch consoles: Elden Ring does offer cross-generational play. This means that friends can still play together as long as they belong to the same console family. For instance, players on PS4 can join their friends on PS5, and similarly, Xbox One users can connect with those on Xbox Series X/S.
Understanding Cross-Gen Play in Elden Ring
So, how exactly does cross-generational play work in Elden Ring? The game supports both current and last-generation consoles including PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. This functionality allows players to enjoy a seamless multiplayer experience with friends who may not have upgraded their systems.
Additionally, if you purchase Elden Ring for a previous console and later upgrade, you can take advantage of a complimentary upgrade to the next-gen version. For example, if you initially bought the game for PS4 and then acquire a PS5, you can download the PS5 version at no extra cost.
Setting Up Multiplayer in Elden Ring
While Elden Ring may not support cross-platform play, it does provide various multiplayer options. Setting up multiplayer can be slightly complex, but once you grasp the system, it’s quite flexible. Players can either extend invitations or accept them via the game menu. This allows for cooperative gameplay or PvP duels.
Here’s how to set up a private co-op session:
- Navigate to the main menu.
- Select the multiplayer tab.
- Click on settings.
- Choose a password for your session.
Your friends can then use this password to join your game, preventing random players from intruding. However, keep in mind that player levels are balanced – if your character is significantly stronger, your stats will be scaled down to match the host.
Essential Multiplayer Tips
When diving into multiplayer gameplay, equip yourself with various in-game items that facilitate co-op or PvP experiences. For example, items like the Small Golden Effigy and Martyr Effigy are essential for summoning players. Here are some critical tips for enhancing your multiplayer experience:
- Co-op players will join as phantoms and have reduced stats compared to their solo play.
- Co-op is generally aimed at specific objectives, such as defeating bosses — once completed, players return to their individual games.
- A maximum of three players can team up in co-op sessions.
- Utilize the Tarnished’s Furled Finger to be summoned by random players.
- The Duelist’s Furled Finger creates a summon sign for PvP activity.
- The Recusant Finger enables players to invade others’ games.
- Many multiplayer items can be obtained through quests, so be sure to complete them for a richer experience.
- If you prefer gaming solo, you can simply switch to offline mode via the System menu.
The Future of Cross-Platform Play in Elden Ring
Many fans are left wondering if Elden Ring will eventually adopt cross-platform capabilities. Currently, there are no plans or announcements suggesting that this feature will be implemented. Despite the growing trend of cross-platform play in popular titles like Minecraft, players must make do with the existing cross-gen connections for now. There is always hope that the developers might reconsider this popular demand in the future.
Conclusion
In summary, while Elden Ring does not support cross-platform play, its cross-generational capabilities ensure that friends can still enjoy the game together across different console versions. By understanding multiplayer mechanics and making use of available resources, players can dive into the rich world of Elden Ring with others. Stay tuned for future updates, as the gaming community continues to evolve in response to player demands.