Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more

Yes. The Outlast Trials supports cross-play on Nintendo Switch 2. Nintendo’s listing identifies a native Switch 2 release, labels the game as multiplatform, and lists online play for one to four players. Red Barrels’ March 5, 2024 release announcement describes the game as “fully cross-play,” allowing friends to play across platforms, and launch coverage for the Switch 2 version reports full crossplay as well.

The important qualification is cross-progression. Red Barrels said on March 5, 2024 that cross-progression was not supported. That statement predates the Switch 2 release on October 27, 2026, and no newer official confirmation establishes that the policy changed. You can plan to play with friends on other systems, but do not assume that saves, unlocks, or purchases move automatically to Switch 2.

What does cross-play mean for Switch 2 players?

Cross-play means a Nintendo Switch 2 player can join the same online sessions as players using supported PC, PlayStation, or Xbox versions. It concerns multiplayer matchmaking and invitations, not whether game progress is shared between systems.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

The Outlast Trials is a cooperative survival-horror game that supports groups of up to four online. Red Barrels’ official game description also allows solo play, so a Switch 2 owner does not need a cross-platform group to play the game. Cross-play simply expands the pool of friends and players who can join a session.

Popular on Amazon
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter | 4Pack Type C Female to A Male Cable Converter for Apple Duo 17 16 15 14 Plus,iWatch Watch 12 11 10,iPad 9 8 Air,Airpods 5 4
  • Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
  • Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
  • Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
  • Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
  • 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.

Nintendo’s product listing uses the “Multiplatform” tag and identifies online co-op. Those labels are consistent with Red Barrels’ platform-wide statement that players can play with friends “across all platforms.” Current Switch 2 launch reporting applies that full-crossplay support to the native Switch 2 edition.

Which platforms can join a Switch 2 session?

The documented cross-play ecosystem includes Nintendo Switch 2, PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. A player on any of those systems is intended to use the same multiplayer ecosystem, although each platform may present invitations and account linking differently.

Platform Cross-play status with Switch 2 Online-service note Format or storage fact Cross-progression
Nintendo Switch 2 Supported according to the Switch 2 listing and launch coverage Nintendo Switch Online membership, Nintendo Account, and internet access required Digital release; Nintendo lists 46 GB Not confirmed for the 2026 release
PC Included in Red Barrels’ documented cross-play platform set Current PC subscription requirements were not established in the cited material Storage requirement varies by storefront and installation Not confirmed for transfer to Switch 2
PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 Included in Red Barrels’ documented cross-play platform set Each console’s online-service rules apply Storage and edition details depend on the console Not confirmed for transfer to Switch 2
Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S Included in Red Barrels’ documented cross-play platform set Each console’s online-service rules apply Storage and edition details depend on the console Not confirmed for transfer to Switch 2

Red Barrels’ published platform list predates the Switch 2 launch, so it should be read alongside Nintendo’s current listing and the launch reports that specifically cover Switch 2. There is no single newer Red Barrels page cited here that publishes a complete Switch 2-specific matrix, but the available evidence points to Switch 2 joining the established cross-platform pool.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

How do I play The Outlast Trials with friends on other systems?

You need the Switch 2 version, an internet connection, a Nintendo Account, and an active Nintendo Switch Online membership for online play. Your friends must own a supported version on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, or Switch 2 and be connected to their platform accounts.

  1. Install the native Switch 2 release. Nintendo lists the game as a digital Nintendo Switch 2 product. Allow enough internal or microSD storage for the listed 46 GB file, plus any space required for system data or updates.
  2. Sign in to your Nintendo Account. The account is required for Nintendo’s online features. If the console has several user profiles, start the game from the profile that has the intended Nintendo Account and online membership.
  3. Confirm Nintendo Switch Online access. Nintendo’s listing states that online play requires membership. A local profile without the required online entitlement will not be able to join online sessions simply because another profile on the console has it.
  4. Launch the game and open its multiplayer or party menu. The exact menu wording can change with updates, but invitations and matchmaking are handled inside the game rather than through a Nintendo-only multiplayer room.
  5. Add or invite your friends using the game’s account or friend system. Cross-play requires the game to identify players across platform networks. Use the in-game invitation flow when a friend is on Steam, PlayStation, Xbox, or another Switch 2 console.
  6. Check that everyone is on a compatible, updated version. A version mismatch can prevent invitations even when cross-play is enabled. Have every player install the same available game update before troubleshooting account settings.

The game supports one to four online players, so a full party can contain four people across any combination of the documented platforms. Cross-play does not require everyone to use the same console brand or PC storefront.

Do I need Nintendo Switch Online?

Yes. Nintendo states that online play requires a Nintendo Switch Online membership, internet access, and a Nintendo Account. That requirement applies to joining or hosting online sessions; it is separate from whether the game can be played alone.

Also popular on Amazon
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter | USB C Dongle with 90W Max Power Delivery, 3×5Gbps USB A Data Ports, for MacBook, Dell, and More (Charger Not Included)
  • 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
  • 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
  • Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
  • 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

The cited material does not establish the current subscription rules for PC, PlayStation, or Xbox. Friends on those platforms must follow the online-service requirements set by their own platform holders. A Switch 2 player should therefore verify Nintendo’s membership status on the account that will launch the game rather than assuming another player’s subscription covers the console.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Is the Switch 2 version digital, and how much space does it need?

Nintendo identifies the Switch 2 edition as a digital release and lists a 46 GB game file size. That figure is Nintendo’s listed size for the product and may not represent every future patch, language pack, or temporary installation requirement.

Because the listing is digital, the relevant hardware purchase is a Nintendo Switch 2 console and sufficient storage, not a physical game cartridge. Check free space before starting the download and leave additional capacity for updates. If the console reports insufficient storage, archive another title or install the game to compatible expanded storage, then retry the download.

Gematsu reported an eShop price of $39.99 for the Switch 2 release. That is secondary reporting and can vary by region or change over time, so treat the price as a point-in-time reference rather than a universal current price.

Can Switch 2 players use the same progress as PC, PlayStation, or Xbox players?

Do not assume that progress transfers. Red Barrels’ March 5, 2024 release announcement explicitly said, “Please note that Cross-Progression is currently not supported.” The statement was published before the October 27, 2026 Switch 2 release, and no newer official support notice cited here confirms a change.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Cross-play and cross-progression are separate systems. A friend on PC can join your Switch 2 match while your character level, inventory, challenges, or purchases remain tied to the platform where they were earned. Unless Red Barrels publishes an updated policy, plan for a separate progression state on Switch 2.

Also popular on Amazon
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter | 85W Max PD, 2 USB 3.0 & 1 USBC Data Ports, SD/TF Card Reader, for Laptops/Mac and Other Type C Devices (Charger Not Included)
  • Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
  • Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
  • Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
  • Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

This also means that buying the game or downloadable content on another platform should not be treated as proof that the same purchase will appear on Switch 2. Check a current Red Barrels support announcement before moving platforms or making a duplicate purchase.

What should I compare before choosing Switch 2 over another platform?

For multiplayer access, Switch 2 is part of the same documented cross-play ecosystem. The practical differences are the Nintendo online-membership requirement, the digital 46 GB installation, the console hardware itself, and the unresolved status of cross-progression.

  • Choose Switch 2 for portability: you can take the native console version away from a television while retaining access to cross-platform sessions when online.
  • Choose a different platform for existing progress only with caution: the historical official statement says cross-progression was not supported, so an existing account history may not follow you.
  • Check service costs separately: Nintendo Switch Online is required on Switch 2. The current subscription requirements for the other platforms were not established by the cited information.
  • Plan storage: the Switch 2 listing reports 46 GB and a digital format, which affects download time and available space.

There is no evidence here that Switch 2 players are placed in a separate matchmaking pool. The point of the “fully cross-play” statement and the Switch 2 launch coverage is that the console joins the broader multiplayer population.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

What can stop cross-play from working?

When a Switch 2 player cannot join a friend, check the basic requirements before concluding that cross-play is unavailable.

  • No Nintendo Switch Online membership: confirm the active membership belongs to the Nintendo Account launching the game.
  • Offline or restricted internet access: test the console’s internet connection and retry after reconnecting.
  • Different game versions: install pending updates on every platform in the party.
  • Incorrect in-game identity: send the invitation through the game’s cross-platform account or party system, not only through a console-friend list.
  • Privacy or parental controls: review communication, friend, and online-play restrictions on the relevant account.
  • Service maintenance: if several players on different platforms fail at the same time, check official service notices before changing local settings.
  • Assuming saves should appear: a missing character or unlock on Switch 2 may reflect the documented cross-progression limitation rather than a multiplayer failure.

If the game still refuses an invitation after these checks, record the platform, game version, account identity, and exact error message before contacting Red Barrels support. Those details distinguish an account problem from a temporary service issue.

What is the bottom line for Switch 2 buyers?

The Outlast Trials is natively available on Nintendo Switch 2 from October 27, 2026, and it supports cross-play with the established PC, PlayStation, and Xbox player base. You can play online with up to three friends, provided the Switch 2 account has Nintendo Switch Online, internet access, and a Nintendo Account.

Also popular on Amazon
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray | Data transfer & Fast charging for MacBook, iPhone 17/16/15, iPad, Samsung Galaxy, Apple Watch
  • Dual Converters, Infinite Potential:Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
  • Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
  • Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
  • Widely Compatible: Transform any USB-C port into a USB-A port and USB-A port into a USB-C port, and connect up a wide range of USB-C(including MacBook, iPad Pro/Air/Mini, iPhone models with USB C ports, Samsung Galaxy series, and Google Pixel series. ) and USB A devices(including external hard drives, phones, mice, printers, and more)
  • Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft

The unresolved point is progression, not multiplayer compatibility. Red Barrels’ latest directly cited statement says cross-progression was not supported in March 2024, so treat Switch 2 as a potentially separate save and purchase environment until the developer publishes a newer policy.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Frequently asked questions

Can a Switch 2 player join a four-person party with three PC friends?

Yes. The game supports online groups of up to four, and the documented cross-play model allows PC and console players to share a session. The Switch 2 player still needs Nintendo Switch Online and a working internet connection.

Does cross-play work between Switch 2 and both PS4 and PS5?

Both PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 are included in Red Barrels’ documented cross-play platform set. The PlayStation players must meet their own console’s online-service requirements.

Can I play The Outlast Trials offline on Switch 2?

The game can be played alone, but Nintendo’s listing requires internet access and Nintendo Switch Online for online play. Solo availability should not be interpreted as a fully offline mode for every activity or feature.

Will a future update definitely add cross-progression?

No. The available official statement only records that cross-progression was not supported as of March 5, 2024. A future change is possible, but it should be treated as unconfirmed until Red Barrels announces it.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Is there a physical Switch 2 cartridge edition?

Nintendo’s listing identifies the relevant Switch 2 release as digital. The cited information does not establish a physical cartridge edition, so buyers should plan around a digital download and the listed 46 GB file size.

Also popular on Amazon
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display | 85W Max PD, 1 Powered USB-C 5Gbps & 2 Powered USB-A 3.0 5Gbps Data Ports, for MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, Dell and More (Black)
  • 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
  • Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
  • Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
  • HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
  • What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Switch 2 player join a four-person party with three PC friends?

Yes. The game supports online groups of up to four, and the documented cross-play model allows PC and console players to share a session. The Switch 2 player still needs Nintendo Switch Online and a working internet connection.

Does cross-play work between Switch 2 and both PS4 and PS5?

Both PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 are included in Red Barrels’ documented cross-play platform set. The PlayStation players must meet their own console’s online-service requirements.

Can I play The Outlast Trials offline on Switch 2?

The game can be played alone, but Nintendo’s listing requires internet access and Nintendo Switch Online for online play. Solo availability should not be interpreted as a fully offline mode for every activity or feature.

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Will a future update definitely add cross-progression?

No. The available official statement only records that cross-progression was not supported as of March 5, 2024. A future change is possible, but it should be treated as unconfirmed until Red Barrels announces it.

Is there a physical Switch 2 cartridge edition?

Nintendo’s listing identifies the relevant Switch 2 release as digital. The cited information does not establish a physical cartridge edition, so buyers should plan around a digital download and the listed 46 GB file size.

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.