How to Set Up Crossplay on Your Valheim Server

MANAfuel Team

4 min readMay 27, 2026Updated May 2026

Valheim crossplay server setup on MANAfuel

Enable crossplay on your MANAfuel Valheim server so PC (Steam), Xbox, and Game Pass players can join the same world.

Deploy a Vanilla Valheim Server
Crossplay requires the Vanilla server type — not BepInEx. Open the MANAfuel dashboard, click Deploy, and select Valheim. Choose the standard (non-BepInEx) server variant. This deploys a server that supports PlayFab matchmaking, which is how Xbox and Game Pass clients discover and connect to dedicated servers.
Enable the Crossplay Flag
In your server settings panel, enable the Crossplay toggle. This activates the PlayFab backend that allows Xbox and Game Pass players to find your server. Steam players connect using the traditional server browser or direct IP. The crossplay flag must be enabled before the server starts — toggling it requires a restart.
Share Your Server with Console Players
Console players join through the Valheim in-game server browser by searching for your server name. Make your server name unique and memorable — console players cannot connect via IP address, only through the server list. Ensure your server has a password set if you want to restrict access, as it will be publicly discoverable once crossplay is enabled.
Understand Crossplay Limitations
Crossplay works for vanilla gameplay only. BepInEx mods, custom items, and client-side modifications are not compatible with crossplay. Console players see exactly the same world, items, and mechanics as PC players in the base game. If your community later decides they want mods, you will need to disable crossplay and have all players switch to the BepInEx-compatible PC client.
Troubleshoot Connection Issues
If console players cannot find your server in the list, verify that the crossplay toggle is enabled and the server has fully started. PlayFab registration can take 1 to 2 minutes after server boot. If a specific player times out, have them verify their Valheim game is up to date — version mismatches between PC and console builds prevent connection. Bob monitors PlayFab registration status and alerts you if the server fails to register.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Can I run mods and crossplay at the same time?

No. Crossplay requires the Vanilla server type. BepInEx mods disable crossplay compatibility. You need to choose one mode based on whether your community prioritizes mods or cross-platform access.

Do Xbox players need Xbox Live Gold to join?

No. Valheim crossplay uses PlayFab matchmaking, not Xbox Live multiplayer services. Players with Game Pass (including PC Game Pass) can join without any additional subscription.

Can I switch between crossplay and BepInEx on the same world?

Yes. The world save is independent of the server mode. Create a save point, switch server types in your settings, and restart. Structures and progress carry over, but any modded items revert to their base-game equivalents when switching to Vanilla.

Troubleshooting