You can play with a friend on PlayStation while you’re on Xbox only if the specific game supports cross-play between your consoles. Both of you need compatible versions of the same game, and you may need to add each other through the game’s own friends system or link a publisher account. The setup and online-subscription requirements vary by game and mode.
Check that your game supports Xbox–PlayStation cross-play
Cross-play is a feature of an individual game, not a universal connection between Xbox and PlayStation. A game being available on both consoles does not necessarily mean its players can join the same match. Before you buy or troubleshoot, check the game’s official support page for the platforms, console generations, and multiplayer mode you want to use. EA notes that cross-play availability can vary by game and mode, while cross-progression—the ability to carry progress between platforms—is a separate feature and may have its own limits: EA’s cross-play and cross-progression guide.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
Rank #4
- XBOX ELITE WIRELESS CONTROLLER SERIES 2: Play like a pro with adjustable-tension thumbsticks, wrap-around rubberized grip, and shorter hair trigger locks..Audio : 3.5mm stereo headset jack. Also compatible with the Xbox One Stereo Headset Adapter and all other Xbox controller accessories made by Microsoft.
- CORE ESSENTIALS: Includes just the components you need to unleash your best game. Additional components sold separately for even more customization with the Complete Component Pack.
- LIMITLESS CUSTOMIZATION: Exclusive button mapping options in the Xbox Accessories app—even pick which color the Xbox button lights up with.*
- CUSTOM PROFILES: Save up to 3 custom profiles on the controller and switch between them on the fly.*
- EXTENDED GAMEPLAY: Stay in the game with up to 40 hours of battery life and refined components that are built to last.*
Rank #3
- PLAY LIKE A PRO — The XBOX Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 features over 30 ways to play like a pro. Designed in collaboration with pro-level players, it puts exceptional performance, customization, and durability where it matters most.
- ADJUSTABLE-TENSION THUMBSTICKS — Fine-tune your aim with thumbsticks that let you adjust resistance for improved accuracy, consistency, and control in every match.
- SHORTER HAIR TRIGGER LOCKS — Fire faster and react quicker with three-step hair trigger locks that reduce pull distance for rapid input in competitive gameplay.
- INTERCHANGEABLE COMPONENTS — Swap thumbstick toppers, D-pads, and paddles to tailor your controller to your preferred gaming style. Includes 6 thumbsticks, 4 paddles, 2 D-pads, carrying case, and charging dock.
- SAVE AND SWITCH PROFILES — Save up to 3 custom profiles on the controller and switch between them on the fly with the dedicated Profile button. Even pick which color the XBOX button lights up as.
Rank #2
- Tri-mode Connectivity: Wired for Xbox, 2.4G & Wired for PC, and Bluetooth for Android. The G7 Pro supports seamless connectivity across Xbox, PC, and Android. Effortlessly switch between modes using the convenient physical mode switch.
- TMR Sticks: The G7 Pro features GameSir's Mag-Res TMR sticks, combining Hall Effect durability with traditional potentiometer performance. This advanced technology delivers stable polling rates for smooth, drift-free gaming with low power consumption.
- Hall Effect Analog Triggers: The GameSir precision-tuned Hall Effect analog triggers provide unmatched smoothness and linear input for precise control. Featuring clicky Micro Switch trigger stops, gamers can easily switch based on their preferences.
- 1000Hz Polling Rate on PC: Experience ultra-responsive gaming with a 1000Hz polling rate on PC, available through both wired and 2.4G wireless connections. This ensures instantaneous input registration, reducing lag and optimizing your performance for the most competitive gameplay.
- GameSir Nexus App: The G7 Pro is compatible with the upgraded GameSir Nexus app, which brings a significant upgrade over the original. It introduces powerful new features such as gyro settings, stick curve adjustments, and button-to-mouse mapping, giving you deeper customization and more control than ever before.
#1 Best Overall
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
- Platforms and generations: Confirm the page lists both Xbox and PlayStation, and check whether it supports Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, PS5, or only some of them.
- Mode: Cross-play may be available in some modes but not others, such as private matches, ranked play, or co-op.
- Accounts: Look for requirements to use an in-game username, publisher account, or linked account.
- Online access: Check whether the game or console platform requires a subscription for the mode you plan to play.
- Progression: Verify separately whether saves or unlocks carry across platforms; cross-play does not guarantee that they do.
Set up a cross-platform game session
- Verify the exact game and mode. Use the game publisher’s official support page to confirm Xbox–PlayStation cross-play, compatible console generations, and availability in your desired mode.
- Install and update the game on both consoles. Both players need access to the same supported game and a compatible version. Make sure each player can enter the relevant online mode.
- Check multiplayer access. Review the game’s online requirements and the subscription rules for each platform. PlayStation says, “For certain games, you need a PlayStation®Plus member for online multiplayer”; requirements are not the same for every game. See PlayStation’s PS5 guide to joining a game and check the game’s listing in PlayStation Store.
- Open the game’s social or friends menu. Add your friend using the game’s cross-platform account or player ID if required. For example, Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition support says PlayStation players must link an Xbox account to access cross-platform matches.
- Invite or join through the game. Use its invite, party, or lobby controls. PlayStation also lets players join eligible game groups from a friend’s profile or the Play With Friends card, but the invitation method depends on the game. For cross-platform play, follow the game’s own supported flow.
Examples of how cross-play rules differ
| Game | What official support says | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Apex Legends | EA says parties can include players across supported platforms, including Xbox and PlayStation, and cross-platform parties can use in-game voice chat. A platform account and platform subscription may be required. EA identifies the game as free-to-play. | Confirm platform-account and online-access requirements for your setup. EA’s Apex Legends FAQ. |
| Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition | Official support says Xbox, PlayStation, Microsoft Store, and Steam players can create and play multiplayer matches together. PlayStation players must link an Xbox account. | Complete the required Xbox-account link on PlayStation. Age of Empires cross-platform support. |
| Madden NFL 27 | EA lists cross-play for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC; cross-play invites are available only in select multiplayer modes. | Check that both players use a listed platform and that the intended mode supports invites. EA’s Madden NFL 27 cross-play FAQ. |
| Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 | Activision documents cross-play across platforms and cross-progression for platforms linked to the same Activision account. Its guidance also identifies a cross-play setting and a limitation involving Xbox PC app/Microsoft Store players. | Follow the title-specific account and settings instructions rather than assuming they apply to other games. Activision’s Black Ops 6 cross-play support. |
If you can’t join your friend
- The game does not list both platforms: Cross-play may not be supported for your game, console generation, or selected mode. Check the official page rather than relying on the game’s availability on both consoles.
- Your friend does not appear in the game: Confirm you are using the correct in-game ID or linked publisher account, and complete any required account linking.
- An invite fails: Check the game’s cross-play setting, privacy and matchmaking settings, and whether the mode accepts cross-platform invites. Settings and menu paths are title-specific; for example, Activision documents a cross-play setting for Black Ops 6.
- You can’t access multiplayer: Check whether the selected mode requires a console online-multiplayer subscription. Requirements depend on the game and platform.
- You are using different console generations or game versions: Verify that both versions are compatible for cross-play. Support can be restricted to particular generations, as EA’s Madden NFL 27 guidance illustrates.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

