Cross-platform play is a feature in Fortnite that allows players from different gaming platforms to team up or compete against each other in the same game session. Whether your friends are on PlayStation, PC, Switch, or mobile, you can join forces and play together. If you’re on Xbox and want to enable this feature, here’s a step-by-step guide to getting started.
1. Sign in to Your Epic Games Account
The first thing you need is an Epic Games account, as Fortnite uses this account to manage your friends list and game progress across platforms. If you don’t have one, you can create it on the Epic Games website. If you already have an account, sign in with your credentials.
Once signed in, ensure that your account is linked to your Xbox profile. This can be done by navigating to the “Account” section on the Epic Games website and following the instructions to link your Xbox Live account.
2. Add Friends on Epic Games
Cross-platform play relies on your Epic Games friends list, not your Xbox Live friends list. To add friends, you can:
- On Xbox: Open the social menu in Fortnite and use the “Add Friends” option. You’ll need to enter your friend’s Epic username or email address.
- On PC: Download and install the Epic Games Launcher, then log in and click on the “Friends” icon. Enter your friend’s details and send them a friend request.
Once your friends accept the request, you’ll be able to see them in your friends list in the game.
3. Enable Cross-Platform Play on Xbox
To enable cross-platform play, follow these steps:
- Open the Guide Menu: Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide.
- Go to Settings: Navigate to “Profile & System” > “Settings” > “Account.”
- Privacy & Online Safety: Select “Privacy & online safety,” then choose “Xbox Live Privacy.”
- Custom Privacy Settings: Select “View details & customize” > “Communication & multiplayer.”
- Enable Cross-Platform Play: Under “You can play with people outside Xbox Live,” make sure it’s set to “Allow.”
This setting allows you to connect with players on other platforms like PlayStation, PC, and mobile.
4. Join or Invite Friends to a Party
Now that cross-platform play is enabled, you can join or invite friends from other platforms. Open the friends list in Fortnite and select the friend you want to play with. You can either join their party or invite them to yours.
When you’re all in the same party, the matchmaking system will place you in a game lobby based on the highest-performing platform among your group. For instance, if you have a PC player in your party, you’ll be matched with other PC players, which might make the competition tougher for console players.
5. Voice Chat and Communication
To communicate with your friends during the game, make sure that voice chat is enabled. Go to the in-game settings under the audio tab and ensure that “Voice Chat” is turned on and set to “Party.” This will allow you to talk with friends regardless of the platform they’re playing on.
If you’re experiencing issues with voice chat, make sure no other apps on your console are using the microphone, and confirm that your headset is properly connected.
6. Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you run into issues with cross-platform play, here are a few troubleshooting tips:
- Check Privacy Settings: Ensure that your Xbox privacy settings are correctly configured to allow cross-platform play.
- Restart the Game: After making changes to your settings, restart Fortnite to ensure they take effect.
- Update the Game: Make sure you have the latest version of Fortnite, as updates often include fixes for cross-platform play issues.
7. Considerations When Playing Cross-Platform
While cross-platform play expands your pool of potential teammates and opponents, it’s important to remember that playing against PC players can be more challenging due to the advantages of mouse and keyboard controls. On the other hand, playing with friends across platforms can make the game more enjoyable and competitive.
By following these steps, you can easily enable cross-platform play on your Xbox and enjoy Fortnite with friends, no matter what device they’re using. Whether you’re working together to secure a Victory Royale or just having fun exploring the map, cross-platform play adds a new layer of excitement to the game.
