The rise of crossplay functionality is becoming increasingly prominent in the gaming world, even if it is not yet prevalent as a standard feature. The appeal of cross-platform games lies in their ability to unite players across diverse systems, fostering larger, more active gaming communities. This integration not only enhances gameplay experiences but also contributes to longer lifespan of titles by preventing factionalization of player bases.
Exploring the Crossplay Offerings on Xbox Game Pass
One standout option in the gaming landscape is Xbox Game Pass, a subscription service renowned for its expansive and varied library designed to appeal to diverse gaming preferences. While their catalog doesn’t heavily spotlight cross-platform titles, it raises an intriguing question: what are the top crossplay games available on Game Pass?
Last Updated: December 15, 2024 by Mark Sammut: Recent months have not introduced any major crossplay titles to Xbox Game Pass. However, one noteworthy entry from several months ago has earned a mention for its focus on movement.
Halo Infinite
Both Halo Infinite and The Master Chief Collection feature crossplay in multiplayer modes, although the integration has faced some critique. Regardless, they are important mentions in the crossplay conversation.
Call Of Duty: Black Ops 6
PvP Multiplayer and PvE Co-Op Support Crossplay
As an annual release, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 typically wouldn’t warrant significant buzz. However, the franchise’s momentum is undeniable due to its strong commercial foundation. Following the critical shortcomings of Modern Warfare 3, which faced backlash for its lackluster single-player campaigns and a Zombies mode that shifted away from traditional intensity, Black Ops 6 needed to deliver. Notably, it made its debut on Game Pass, allowing players, especially those who may have stepped away from the franchise, to reconnect without a financial commitment. This entry features a more fulfilling single-player campaign, reminiscent of earlier games in the series.
The real legacy of Black Ops 6 lies within its multiplayer offerings—receiving solid praise for both Player vs Player (PvP) and Zombies modes. The game excels with robust crossplay support, uniting gamers across all platforms, which is particularly beneficial for the Zombies experience that returns to much-enjoyed formulas.
Moving Out 2
A Multiplayer Party Without Restrictions
The monotonous task of moving houses has been reimagined into the fun, cooperative gameplay of Moving Out 2. Serving as a sequel to the original title’s quirky physics-based concept, this installment heightens absurdity by introducing interdimensional challenges. The gameplay focus remains on strategizing optimal paths for moving items while ensuring they remain intact, which can be significantly enhanced when played with friends. While a single-player experience exists, the game truly shines in multiplayer mode, allowing players from different platforms to connect and enjoy.
Riders Republic
An Open-World Extreme Sports Epic
Riders Republic merges diverse sports experiences into one expansive online arena, letting players navigate through breathtaking terrains and a variety of challenges. Although Ubisoft games tend to elicit mixed reactions, this title stands out in the extreme sports genre. With multiple disciplines such as skiing, biking, and snowboarding, it invites players to experience diverse gameplay mechanics while forming a lively community. The emphasis on multiplayer is clear, with up to 64 players competing simultaneously, making crossplay capabilities vital for maintaining a vibrant gaming environment.
Diablo 4
An Action RPG That Thrives with Friends
Despite its rocky post-launch journey, Diablo 4 remains a significant entry in the action RPG genre. While it features a relatively engaging single-player campaign, the true enjoyment arises from its cooperative multiplayer experience, which is enriched by extensive crossplay support. Players can team up to explore the game’s challenging environments, utilizing their character classes synergistically. Despite some hurdles, including initial gameplay balance issues, continued updates and expansions indicate Blizzard’s commitment to enhancing the overall experience.
MLB The Show 24
The Premier Baseball Simulation with Online Features
With its realistic depiction of baseball, MLB The Show 24 solidifies its place as the quintessential baseball simulation franchise. The game offers an engaging single-player experience with various modes such as Road to the Show and Franchise, designed to keep players immersed for long periods. Additionally, cross-progression allows players to seamlessly transition their advancements, which strengthens its appeal further in competitive online environments.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3
Even amid discussions of newer games like Black Ops 6, Modern Warfare 3 remains a staple for many players. Despite its initial criticism focusing on its single-player story, it still offers a standard multiplayer experience that appeals to fans familiar with the franchise.
Mortal Kombat 11
A Beloved Fighting Game Still Thriving Amid New Releases
Mortal Kombat 11 remains a competitive title, even as newer entries like MK1 appear. The game’s crossplay feature, while limited to same-gen hardware among console players, still provides valuable connections to fight against friends across platforms. Released in 2019, the game showcases strategic, methodical combat that asks players to carefully consider their moves, providing a robust multiplayer experience well after its initial launch.
Sea of Thieves
The Ultimate Swashbuckling Adventure
Having celebrated its fifth anniversary in March 2023, Sea of Thieves has transformed from its rocky launch into a beloved staple of multiplayer gaming. This title relies on cooperative play as players partake in pirate adventures, and its always-online experience benefits substantially from crossplay support, inviting crews from varying platforms. While engaging solo players are still present, the essence of the game thrives in its multiplayer aspect, encouraging teamwork and camaraderie among crews.
Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2
An Engaging Fight for All Ages
Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2 sets itself apart in the crowded platform-fighting genre by offering an enjoyable experience for fans of all ages. Building on the foundation of its predecessor, the sequel introduces enriching elements like diverse gameplay modes and fun character interactions, making it an entertaining option for both kids and adults. While the game beckons the nostalgia of classic Nickelodeon characters, its core lies in multiplayer mayhem, making it a joyful addition to your game night.
Dead By Daylight
A Thrilling Asymmetrical Horror Game
Dead by Daylight has established its longevity through regular content updates and collaborations with iconic horror franchises. The game pits four survivors against a single killer, and after its introduction of crossplay, it has fostered a thriving community. Each character’s unique abilities and the tension of the chase create thrilling gameplay moments. Importantly, the game’s continuous support by developers ensures it retains a large, active player base.
Grounded
An Accessible Sandbox Survival Experience
Grounded challenges players by shrinking them down to insect-sized proportions in a vast backyard environment filled with dangers. The game provides an engaging experience solo but flourishes when played cooperatively with friends, enabling players to tackle challenges and explore their environment together. Crossplay capability ensures that friends can join forces regardless of their platform, enhancing the overall experience and community interactions.
Party Animals
A Whimsical Party Game
Party Animals invites players into chaotic challenges, reminiscent of Gang Beasts, but with its own whimsical twist. The game features a variety of modes that showcase lighthearted competition through wonky physics and customizable characters. Its fun mechanics allow for unique interactions and silly play sessions, making it a perfect addition for social gatherings and multiplayer get-togethers.
Among Us
Collaborative Survival Meets Deception
The enduring popularity of Among Us can be attributed to its unique blend of cooperative gameplay and deception. In this engaging social deduction game, players must identify the Impostors among them while completing tasks aboard a spaceship. The mix of laughter, strategy, and surprise keeps this game a favorite in multiplayer circles.
Chivalry 2
Engaging in Grandeur Medieval Combat
Chivalry 2 immerses players in the chaotic and visceral world of medieval warfare, featuring large-scale battles with up to 64 players participating simultaneously. The game’s engaging mechanics prioritize teamwork, and its crossplay feature promotes interaction between platforms, enhancing its vibrant player base in epic combat scenarios.
Deathloop
Innovative PvP Mechanics in a Unique Narrative
Deathloop presents a compelling blend of time-loop storytelling and PvP mechanics. Players take on the role of Colt, striving to eliminate eight targets within a single day, while another player can disrupt their plans as Julianna. Implementing crossplay enhances the unpredictability and excitement of multiplayer interactions, adding depth to gameplay plots.
Remnant: From The Ashes
A Challenging Co-Op Adventure
Remnant: From The Ashes remains a strong contender in the Souls-like genre, offering a cooperative gameplay experience for up to three players. The game’s appealing mix of shooting mechanics and RPG elements encourages teamwork and collaboration. While the sequel might not offer crossplay, the original title assures players of interconnected experiences across platforms, ensuring a rich, cooperative experience.
Space Engineers
Craft and Build in a Shared Galaxy
Space Engineers delivers a vast sandbox experience set in outer space, where players can build, explore, and craft to their heart’s content. Crossplay support enhances community interactions, facilitating collaboration across platforms for shared creative projects. While beginners may find themselves overwhelmed initially, the rewarding experience quickly blooms once players engage with the rich building mechanics.
For Honor
Epic Combat Across Factions
For Honor has garnered a loyal community since its launch in 2017, focusing on tactical combat between distinct factions. The game offers a learning curve heavily tailored to teamwork, and crossplay facilitates battles across various console platforms, fostering matchups and providing diverse player experiences.
Deep Rock Galactic
The Ultimate Co-Operative Mining Experience
Deep Rock Galactic invites players into thrilling cooperative missions where dwarven miners battle extraterrestrial threats while mining valuable resources. The cooperative gameplay is well-tuned, with unique class features adding depth to team strategies. The game’s active support ensures a continuous flow of updates, solidifying its status as one of the best cross-platform games on Game Pass.
Overwatch 2
Game Pass Offers Valuable Bonuses for Players
While Overwatch 2 is free to play and accessible without a Game Pass subscription, players who link their accounts can unlock exclusive bonuses such as unique skins and items. As the sequel seeks to stabilize its player base following its release, the game maintains a vibrant community, and its competitive gameplay remains highly regarded among multiplayer circles.
Valuing
A Free Shooter on Game Pass
Finally, Valorant, another free game, joined the ranks of Game Pass offerings. Recently released on console platforms, its engaging gameplay emphasizes tactical teamwork and sharp shooting dynamics. The inclusion of crossplay supports strong community interactions, allowing players from various platforms to strategize together and cement the game’s ongoing relevance.
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