The practical answer
Baldur's Gate 3 Co-op & Multiplayer
The campaign can be completed solo, by two players sharing one system, or by a party of up to four online. Couch co-op uses two controllers and dynamic split screen, while online players can create characters together or join a campaign already in progress. The host owns the campaign save, so that player must load it for the group to continue. The PC version launched on August 3, 2023, followed by PS5 on September 6, Mac on September 21, and Xbox Series X|S in December 2023. Patch 8 later added split screen to Xbox Series S, bringing the local two-player option to both Series consoles.
How big can the group be?
2–4 players can play together
The cooperative experience supports 2–4 players. On one system, the supported range is 2 players. Online sessions support 2–4 players.
Can you play on one screen?
Couch co-op uses split screen
Players can share one system, with Baldur's Gate 3 dividing the display for each player.
What works online?
Join remotely with 2–4 players
Friends can complete the cooperative experience online. Check the crossplay, copy, account, and subscription details below before choosing platforms.
Is there a solo option?
A solo option is available
Yes. The complete campaign can be played solo, with the player controlling their main character and the recruited companions in the active party.
Does Baldur's Gate 3 support crossplay?
Patch 8 added full crossplay among PC and Mac, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S. Every cross-platform player must link their platform account to a Larian Account, enable crossplay, and connect through the Larian Network. Crossplay also works with supported mods, but everyone in the lobby needs compatible versions of the same mods; console and Mac players can only use mods available on those platforms.
PC and PS5
Supported. Everyone must enable crossplay and connect through the Larian Network.
PC and Xbox Series
Supported. Everyone must enable crossplay and connect through the Larian Network.
PS5 and Xbox Series
Supported. Everyone must enable crossplay and connect through the Larian Network.
Cross-generation support
Baldur's Gate 3 has no PS4 or Xbox One version, so there are no PlayStation or Xbox cross-generation combinations. It is also unavailable on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2.
What your group needs before playing
How many copies does your group need?
1 locally; 1 per online system
Two people playing split screen on one PC or console need one copy and two compatible controllers. For online or cross-platform co-op, every participating PC or console needs its own copy or licensed access to the game. There is no Friend's Pass. Crossplay participants also need free Larian Accounts linked to their platform accounts.
Can one owner bring a guest?
No free guest version
No. Baldur's Gate 3 does not provide a Friend's Pass or free guest client.
Which online memberships apply?
Console online membership
Local split-screen and solo play do not need an online subscription. Online PS5 play requires PlayStation Plus, and online Xbox play requires an Xbox Game Pass tier that includes console multiplayer. PC and Mac players do not need a paid platform multiplayer subscription.
Who is Baldur's Gate 3 good for?
- Groups that want a long shared campaign
- Two players sharing a couch and one screen
- Mixed PC, PS5, and Xbox Series groups
- Players who enjoy tactical combat and consequential choices
