Valheim Dedicated Server Crossplay: Xbox, PS5 and Game Pass

To enable crossplay on a Valheim dedicated server, add -crossplay to the server's launch line and restart. The server then runs on Iron Gate's crossplay backend (PlayFab) instead of Steam networking, prints a join code in its console, and Xbox, PC Game Pass, PlayStation 5 and Switch 2 players can join with that code alongside Steam players. Crossplay servers must run without gameplay mods, because console players cannot install them.

How does Valheim crossplay work?

A Valheim server can run on one of two backends:

The crossplay backend uses PlayFab, a Microsoft service, to match players and relay traffic. That is how a PS5 and a Steam Deck end up in the same world.

How to turn on crossplay

On a self hosted server, add the flag to the launch line or your start script:

valheim_server.x86_64 -name "Viking Crew" -port 2456 -world "Midgard" -password "longpassword" -public 1 -crossplay

On Windows, add -crossplay to the line in start_headless_server.bat. Restart the server. It takes a little longer to come up than a Steam only server, because it registers with PlayFab first.

If you run several crossplay servers on one machine, Iron Gate's guide says to give each one its own -instanceid so their PlayFab IDs do not clash.

Where is the join code?

When the server finishes starting on the crossplay backend, it writes a line to its console and log saying the session was registered with join code, followed by a six digit number. That number is what console players type.

Two things catch everyone out:

• The join code changes every time the server restarts. After a restart, an update or a crash, the old code stops working. Post the new one in your group chat each time.
• Steam players do not need the code. PC players can keep using the IP address and port, which never change. Treat the code as the console players' way in.

How do Xbox, PS5 and Switch 2 players join?

1. Start Valheim and pick a character.
2. Open Join Game.
3. Choose the option to join by code and type the six digit join code.
4. Enter the server password.

Game Pass players on PC join the same way, or find the server in the community list if it is public.

How do Steam players join a crossplay server?

Exactly as before: Join Game > Add server, paste the address, connect, enter the password. The join code works for them too. Our Valheim server not showing up guide covers what to try when the list does not show it.

What ports does a Valheim crossplay server use?

Valheim uses the game port and the one after it, 2456 and 2457 UDP by default. On the Steam backend those must be open and forwarded on a home connection. On the crossplay backend, Iron Gate says port forwarding is not needed, since traffic goes through the relay. If you self host, we would still open the ports, so Steam players connecting by IP get a direct route.

Crossplay on a GamezServers Valheim server

GamezServers Valheim servers have crossplay as a setting:

• On the Vanilla server type, Crossplay is on by default. Console and Game Pass players can join from the moment the server is up.
• On the BepInEx type, crossplay is off by default, since a modded server is for PC players.

To find the join code, open the Console tab and look for the line that says registered with join code. Because the code changes on each restart, check it again after every Restart or after the server wakes from sleep. Ports are already open and the server is behind DDoS protection, so there is no router setup on your side.

One extra detail: when the crossplay lookup of the server's public address fails while the world is loading, a known hiccup with the PlayFab backend, our servers restart themselves automatically to retry, up to a few times. You will see a GamezServers line in the console when that happens. Nothing to do on your end.

Why can't console players join my Valheim server?

Can I use mods on a crossplay Valheim server?

Not gameplay mods. A mod that adds items, creatures or building pieces has to be installed on every player's game, and consoles have no way to do that. Valheim's world modifiers are the vanilla alternative: they let you change combat, death penalty, resources, raids and portals for everyone, on every platform. See Valheim world modifiers on a dedicated server.

If your group is all on PC and wants mods, use the BepInEx type and follow how to install Valheim mods with BepInEx.

FAQ

Does Valheim have crossplay between PC and PS5?

Yes. With -crossplay on the server, PlayStation 5 players can join the same dedicated server as Steam, Xbox and Game Pass players.

Do console players need a password to join?

If the server has a password, yes. They enter it after the join code, the same as PC players.

Does crossplay make the server lag?

Traffic goes through a relay instead of straight to the server, which can add a little latency. Most groups do not notice it. If everyone is on Steam, there is no reason to turn crossplay on.

How many players can join a crossplay server?

Valheim allows up to 10 players per server, whatever mix of platforms they are on.

How do I make a console player an admin?

Add their platform ID to adminlist.txt, in the [Platform]_[User ID] form the game shows with F2. Our Valheim admin commands guide has the details.

Crossplay without the setup

A vanilla Valheim server from us has crossplay on, ports open and the join code right in the console, about 60 seconds after payment. See Valheim server hosting or the Valheim quick start.