In the evolving landscape of multiplayer gaming, crossplay has emerged as a revolutionary feature, allowing players across different platforms to unite in their favorite titles. One such game, “Grounded,” has gained immense popularity for its engaging gameplay mechanics, especially in its cooperative multiplayer mode. Nevertheless, many gamers are currently facing a frustrating issue with Grounded on the PS5: crossplay not working. If you find yourself in this predicament, don’t worry! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the potential causes of this issue and provide solutions that can help you get back to playing with your friends.
Understanding Crossplay in Grounded
Before diving into troubleshooting, it’s essential to understand what crossplay means and how it applies to a game like Grounded. Crossplay allows players on different gaming platforms—such as the PS5, Xbox, and PC—to play together seamlessly.
Grounded is an action-adventure survival game developed by Obsidian Entertainment, where players shrink to the size of insects and navigate a backyard full of challenges. This game is designed for both solo and multiplayer modes, making crossplay an attractive feature for friends wanting to team up regardless of their console choice.
Why Is Grounded’s Crossplay Not Working on PS5?
If you’re encountering issues with crossplay on Grounded for PS5, several factors could be at play. Understanding these factors will help you pinpoint the root of the problem.
Network Issues
The most common reason for crossplay malfunctions is network-related problems. Whether it’s a weak Wi-Fi signal or server issues, networking can significantly affect your ability to connect with players on other platforms.
Game Version Mismatches
Crossplay functionality requires all players involved to be on the same version of the game. If one player has not updated the game to the latest version, this could prevent crossplay interactions.
Account Restrictions and Settings
Certain account settings can hinder crossplay capabilities. Some players may have privacy settings that do not allow crossplay, and they may need to adjust their configurations.
Firewall or Anti-Virus Software
If you are playing on a network that uses a firewall or security software, these programs could restrict connections with players on other platforms, influencing your crossplay experience.
Game Server Capacity
The capacity of the game servers can also impact crossplay functionality. If the servers are overloaded due to a high player count, it may result in difficulties connecting or lagging.
Troubleshooting Steps to Fix Grounded Crossplay on PS5
When faced with crossplay issues on Grounded, you can take several troubleshooting steps to try and resolve the problem. Below are some effective methods you can implement:
1. Check Your Internet Connection
To ensure a stable online experience:
- Perform a speed test to verify your internet speed.
- Restart your router.
- When possible, connect your PS5 via Ethernet to reduce latency and improve connection reliability.
2. Update Grounded
Ensuring you have the latest version of Grounded is crucial for crossplay functionality. Here’s how to check for updates:
- Go to the “Games” section on your PS5 home screen.
- Highlight Grounded and press the “Options” button on your controller.
- Select “Check for Update” from the dropdown menu.
If an update is available, download and install it immediately.
3. Adjust Account Settings
To ensure crossplay is enabled:
- Navigate to the PS5 settings menu.
- Go to “Users and Accounts” and then “Privacy.”
- Ensure that your visibility settings allow for crossplay. You may want to temporarily change the settings to public to troubleshoot the issue.
4. Verify Grounded Servers
Issues with Grounded’s servers can often lead to crossplay problems. To verify server status:
- Visit the official Obsidian Entertainment website or social media channels.
- Check whether there are any announcements regarding downtime or maintenance.
If the servers are down, you may need to wait until they are back online.
5. Disable Firewall or Security Software
If you are using firewall settings or additional security software, try temporarily disabling them:
- Access your firewall settings and create an exception for Grounded.
- Turn off any active anti-virus software and test crossplay functionality.
Be sure to turn these settings back on afterwards for your overall security.
6. Restart the Game and Console
Simply restarting the game or your console could resolve many minor glitches. Here’s how:
- Quit Grounded completely on your PS5.
- Turn off your console and then restart it.
- Open Grounded again and test crossplay.
7. Join Friends from the Game Menu
Attempt to join friends directly from the in-game menu:
- While in the main menu, select “Play” and then “Join Friends.”
- If your friends are online, but you cannot see them, consider inviting them directly through their usernames.
When to Seek Further Assistance
If you’ve gone through all the troubleshooting steps and the crossplay features in Grounded are still not functioning, it may be time to seek further assistance. Here are some options:
Contact Customer Support
Both Obsidian and PlayStation offer customer support options. You can contact them via their official websites or through social media. Provide them with detailed descriptions of your issue, including the troubleshooting steps you’ve already attempted.
Community Forums and Social Media
Online gaming communities are incredibly beneficial resources. Engaging with forums like Reddit or official game forums can provide additional insights or users who may be facing the same issue.
Future Updates and Expectations
The gaming community can often resolve issues through updates. Developers generally listen to community feedback, and crossplay features can often see improvements through patches. It’s essential to stay updated with official announcements from Obsidian regarding Grounded, as they often communicate important changes or fixes.
Staying Updated on Game Releases
To ensure you don’t miss any updates regarding Grounded or its crossplay functionality, consider:
- Following Obsidian Entertainment on social media.
- Subscribing to their newsletters or gaming forums.
- Regularly checking the PlayStation Store for game patches or announcements.
Conclusion
In a world where gamers are increasingly seeking unity across different platforms, the experience of crossplay in games like Grounded must be seamless. If you are experiencing issues with crossplay on the PS5, remember you are not alone, and there are multiple troubleshooting steps you can undertake.
Given that crossplay should enable all your friends to join together regardless of platform, resolve your issues with the outlined solutions, and keep seeking community insights. Don’t forget that updates from developers can also play a crucial role in fixing these types of issues.
By following this comprehensive guide, you should be well on your way to enjoying Grounded’s multiplayer features with your friends again. Happy gaming!
What should I do if Grounded is not showing crossplay options on PS5?
If Grounded is not displaying crossplay options on your PS5, first ensure that all players involved have the latest version of the game installed. Crossplay functionality relies on synchronized versions across platforms, so check if updates are available for Grounded in your game library. Additionally, verify your in-game settings to confirm that crossplay is enabled. Some players may have mistakenly disabled this feature, which would prevent visibility of crossplay options.
Another aspect to consider is your PlayStation Network status. If the PSN is experiencing downtime or issues, it could affect online connectivity and crossplay functionality. Check the PlayStation Network status page or their official social media channels for any ongoing issues. Restarting your PS5 can also help reset any temporary glitches that might be preventing crossplay from being available.
How can I check if my internet connection is causing the crossplay issue?
To determine if your internet connection is the root of the crossplay problem, start by testing your connection speed on your PS5. You can do this by navigating to the Settings menu, selecting Network, and then choosing “Test Internet Connection.” A stable connection is vital for online gaming, so ensure your download and upload speeds are adequate for playing Grounded with friends. A minimum of 3 Mbps download speed is recommended for smooth online gameplay.
If your connection seems unstable or slow, try troubleshooting the network. Restart your router or modem, and consider using a wired connection instead of Wi-Fi for a more reliable performance. Additionally, check to see if any other devices on your network are consuming bandwidth, as this could hinder your gaming experience. Addressing these issues may restore proper crossplay functionality.
Are there any specific game settings that might affect crossplay on PS5?
Yes, specific game settings can directly impact crossplay functionality in Grounded. One essential aspect to check is whether all players have the same privacy settings applied. If one player’s privacy settings prevent them from being visible to others, it can obstruct crossplay. In Grounded, navigate to your options and ensure that your game is set in a way that permits interactions with players across different platforms.
Moreover, game mode selections may also influence crossplay capabilities. Make sure that all participants are trying to join the same mode, whether it’s a campaign or a special event. Any discrepancies in game modes can lead to connectivity issues. To facilitate smoother matchmaking, consider coordinating with other players to confirm everyone’s settings before starting a session.
What if my friend on a different platform can’t join my game in Grounded?
If a friend on a different platform is having difficulty joining your game in Grounded, start by confirming that all players have the correct game ID or invitation. Ensure that the correct lobby or session is open and that your friend is attempting to join the right game type. Misinformation about the game ID could result in connectivity failures.
In addition, both players should check their privacy settings and ensure they have allowed crossplay features. Inspect in-game invitations and confirm if there are any restrictions. If the issue continues, consider restarting the game or system, as this might rectify any temporary connectivity glitches that hinder crossplay.
Can resetting my PS5 resolve crossplay issues in Grounded?
Resetting your PS5 can often resolve various technical problems, including crossplay issues in Grounded. If other troubleshooting steps have failed, performing a reset may be beneficial. However, ensure you back up your data before doing so, as this process can impact saved game data. Restarting your console can clear any temporary software conflicts and refresh the system’s connection to the internet.
After the reset, immediately check your network settings and ensure that any necessary updates to Grounded have been applied. Once you’ve confirmed everything is up to date, test the crossplay functionality again. A fresh start might just be the solution needed to re-establish connectivity and enhance your gameplay experience.
What can I do if I continue to experience crossplay issues despite following all troubleshooting steps?
If you’re still facing crossplay issues after trying various troubleshooting methods, it may be time to consult the official support forums or the Grounded community. Sometimes, specific bugs or issues may require patches from the developers. An active community can offer advice based on their experiences and potentially highlight any ongoing problems that match your situation.
Additionally, consider reaching out to the developer’s customer support for further assistance. They may be able to provide more targeted solutions or inform you of any known issues with the game’s crossplay functionality on PS5. Being proactive in seeking help ensures you’re doing everything possible to resolve your situation and enjoy your gaming experience with friends across platforms.