For multiplayer shooters, cross-platform gaming is a delight. Apex Legends maximized this benefit by enabling crossplay on PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and even Nintendo Switch, allowing you to squad up with friends regardless of the system they own.
But what if Apex Legends crossplay isn’t working for you?
Whether you’re unable to add friends, can’t join lobbies, or the game just refuses to connect you with players on other platforms, you’re in the right place. This guide will help you identify the cause and walk you through the step-by-step fix—no guesswork needed.
What Is Apex Legends Crossplay and How It Should Work
Crossplay in Apex Legends allows players on different platforms to matchmake and play together. When it’s working correctly:
- PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and Switch users can form squads
- Friends can invite each other across platforms using EA IDs
- Matchmaking is balanced by platform and input type
By default, crossplay is enabled—but several hidden settings and account-level restrictions can break the connection.
Why Is Crossplay Not Working in Apex Legends?
1. Crossplay Disabled in Settings
Yes—it can be turned off accidentally. If you’re on console (Xbox, PS5, Switch), disabling this setting blocks you from matchmaking across platforms.
2. Console Privacy Restrictions
Your Xbox or PlayStation parental controls or privacy settings may block communication or multiplayer features outside of your console’s network.
3. EA Account Not Linked Properly
Crossplay won’t function if your console account isn’t properly connected to your EA account, or if there’s a sync issue.
4. Server Outages or Bugs
EA servers aren’t perfect. Sometimes, cross-platform play is temporarily broken due to backend outages or bugs during patch updates.
5. Friend List Sync Issues
Your cross-platform friends list may not update correctly, causing issues like friends appearing offline or invisible.
Step-by-Step: How to Fix Crossplay in Apex Legends
1: Enable Crossplay in Game Settings
- Go to Settings from the main lobby
- Scroll to Cross-Platform Play
- Make sure it’s set to Enabled
- (Note: On PC, this is always enabled by default)
2: Update Your Game and System
- Ensure Apex Legends is running the latest version
- Also check for any pending console or PC system updates
- Restart your system after updates
3: Check and Fix Account Linking
- Visit myaccount.ea.com
- Go to the Connections tab
- Ensure your Xbox, PlayStation, or Switch account is correctly linked to your EA account
- If not, link them and then relaunch the game
4: Adjust Console Privacy Settings
For Xbox:
- Settings > Account > Privacy & Online Safety
- Select “Xbox Live Privacy”
- Under “Communication & Multiplayer,” set “You can play with people outside Xbox Live” to Allow
For PlayStation:
- Settings > Users and Accounts > Privacy
- Set Communication and Multiplayer to Allow all online interactions
Step 5: Re-Add Friends Using EA Public ID
- From the lobby, go to Friends
- Select Find Friend
- Enter their EA ID, not their Xbox/PSN/Switch tag
- If they don’t appear, ask them to add you or try logging out and back in
Step 6: Disable VPN or Proxy (If Applicable)
VPNs may route your connection through regions that disrupt crossplay functionality. Disable it, restart your game, and test again.
Still Not Working? Try This…
- Clear local saved data (cache) on console
- Restart your modem/router to fix possible network hiccups
- Switch platforms temporarily to isolate if it’s a platform issue
- Test other multiplayer games to confirm if it’s an Apex-specific issue
If nothing works, contact EA Help directly or check @EAHelp on Twitter for live updates.
Pro Tip: Crossplay Doesn’t Mean Cross-Progression
Remember—crossplay lets you play together, but your progress does not sync between platforms. If you switch from Xbox to PC, your stats and skins don’t carry over (yet).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I disable crossplay in Apex Legends?
Yes, but only on consoles. You can turn it off via game settings. On PC, crossplay is permanently enabled.
Q2: My friend doesn’t appear online—why?
It could be a server sync issue. Re-add each other using your EA IDs, and both restart the game.
Q3: Is crossplay matchmaking balanced?
Apex separates PC players from console players in most public matches unless you’re in a cross-platform squad. Input type also plays a role in matchmaking.
Q4: Do I need an EA account to play crossplay?
Yes. You must have an EA account linked to your gaming console or PC for crossplay to function.
Q5: Can crossplay break after an update?
Absolutely. Game patches can cause temporary bugs. Always update the game and check EA’s official social channels for issues.
Final Thoughts
Crossplay should enhance your Apex Legends experience, not block you from playing with friends. If it’s not working, don’t stress. A few settings tweaks, a proper EA account link, and maybe a little patience during server maintenance will usually fix the problem.