If you're planning a game night with a friend, you might wonder: is it takes two cross platform? The short answer is yes, but with notable ecosystem restrictions that catch many players off guard. You can play across certain hardware families, but you can't mix and match every device on the market.
Cross-platform play depends entirely on which hardware you and your co-op partner use. While Hazelight Studios built an award-winning cooperative adventure, they tied online multiplayer functionality to specific network boundaries. Knowing these boundaries beforehand saves you from buying a copy your friend cannot access.
How Crossplay Works in It Takes Two
The game supports online co-op across multiple generations of hardware, including PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC, and Nintendo systems. However, matching with someone on a different system isn't a free-for-all.
Crossplay operates within strict platform boundaries governed by Electronic Arts account infrastructure. Because you must link your console or PC profile to an EA account, the network checks your hardware type before establishing a connection session.
Supported Cross-Platform Pairings
Certain hardware combinations connect without issues. If you want to play with someone outside your specific console family, check these approved pairings:
- Xbox and PC: Players on Xbox One or Xbox Series X/S can team up seamlessly with Windows PC players using Steam or the EA app.
- PlayStation Ecosystem: PS4 and PS5 users can play together with zero friction, bridging console generations within the Sony family.
- Nintendo Systems: Nintendo hardware owners can connect with matching editions, though specific hardware generation rules apply for online sessions.
Unsupported Cross-Platform Pairings
Many players assume modern multiplayer games feature universal matchmaking, but this title enforces strict walls between competing corporations.
- PlayStation and PC: You cannot host or join a game between a PlayStation console and a PC. Sony and PC networks do not cross-communicate for this title.
- Xbox and PlayStation: Console rivalry keeps Xbox and PlayStation players isolated from each other. An Xbox Series X owner cannot invite a PS5 owner.
Understanding the Friend's Pass System
One of the best features of this co-op adventure is the Friend's Pass, which lets a second player join for free. Only one person needs to buy the full game. The second player downloads the free Friend's Pass application on their preferred system.
This system works alongside cross-platform play, provided you stay within the supported platform pairings. For example, a PC owner can buy the game, and their friend on an Xbox console can download the Friend's Pass to join the session. Both players still need an active subscription for online play on their respective consoles, such as PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass Core, alongside their linked EA accounts.
Step-by-Step: Setting Up Cross-Platform Co-Op
Getting a cross-network session running requires a few specific setup steps. Follow this sequence to connect with your partner:
- Launch the game on both systems and ensure both of you are running the latest software update.
- Link your console profile or PC client to your active EA account when prompted on the main menu.
- Open the social menu inside the game and navigate to the EA Friends list tab.
- Send an EA ID or platform username friend request to your partner.
- Once they accept, select your friend from the in-game roster and send a game invitation.
Common Connection Mistakes to Avoid
Players frequently run into roadblocks because of minor configuration oversights. Keep these pitfalls in mind to ensure a smooth launch:
- Mismatched Game Versions: If one player has an outdated patch, the invite will fail. Verify that both systems have installed the latest updates.
- Missing EA Account Link: Forgetting to link or verify your EA account blocks cross-network visibility entirely. Check your account settings on the official EA Help portal if your friends list remains empty.
- Ignoring Platform Subscriptions: Remember that online play on consoles requires active platform subscription tiers, even if the Friend's Pass software itself costs nothing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play local couch co-op across different screens online?
No. The game supports local split-screen couch co-op on a single machine, but online co-op requires two separate copies or the use of the Friend's Pass across two distinct devices.
Do I need internet access for local co-op?
If you're sitting on the same couch sharing one screen or console, you don't need an internet connection. Online co-op and cross-network play require a constant broadband connection.
Is crossplay enabled by default?
Yes. As long as you log into your EA account online, cross-network features are active, and you can invite compatible platform users directly.
Can PS4 players play with PS5 players?
Yes. Cross-generation play within the same console family is fully supported, allowing PS4 and PS5 owners to experience the entire campaign together.
