Chained Beasts crossplay is officially confirmed by developer and publisher Featherweight Games. The 1–4 player gladiator roguelike supports online cross-platform multiplayer, allowing friends to fight together chained in the arena across PC and modern consoles starting at launch on October 15, 2026.
Whether you intend to play online or gather in the living room for couch co-op, here is how crossplay, platforms, and multiplayer modes function in Chained Beasts.
Confirmed Platforms and Crossplay Support
Chained Beasts is scheduled to launch across multiple hardware platforms and subscription services. Both the official Steam store listing and the Xbox store confirm cross-platform multiplayer capabilities, specifically tagging "Cross-Platform Multiplayer" and "Xbox cross-platform co-op."
Official announcements confirm availability on the following platforms:
- PC: Available via Steam on both Windows 10 and macOS (macOS 11, Apple M1 or Intel i7-6920HQ minimum).
- Xbox: Available on Xbox Series X|S and included with Xbox Game Pass.
- PlayStation: Available on PlayStation 5 (PS5).
- Nintendo: Available on Nintendo Switch.
The table below breaks down the multiplayer capabilities confirmed across available store data:
| Platform | Online Co-Op (1–4 Players) | Shared / Split-Screen Co-Op | Cross-Platform Multiplayer |
|---|---|---|---|
| PC (Steam - Windows) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| PC (Steam - macOS) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| **Xbox Series X | S** | Yes | Yes |
| PlayStation 5 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Nintendo Switch | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Note: Console online multiplayer on Xbox requires an applicable Xbox Game Pass subscription (Essential, Premium, or Ultimate).
Multiplayer Modes: Online and Local Co-Op
Chained Beasts accommodates both remote squads and local couch sessions.
Online Cross-Platform Co-Op
Players can form parties of up to four gladiators online. Cross-platform matchmaking and invites let teammates connect regardless of whether they are playing on PC or consoles. On Steam, developers previously addressed community reports regarding Windows and macOS cross-play lobby connectivity, ensuring cross-operating system co-op functions properly.
Local Shared and Split-Screen Co-Op
If you prefer offline play, Chained Beasts supports local shared/split-screen co-op for 2 to 4 players. According to the official system requirements:
- At least one gamepad or controller is strictly required for same-screen co-op on PC.
- The game features full controller support, with official compatibility listed for Xbox controllers, DualShock, and DualSense gamepads.
- Steam also includes Remote Play Together, Steam Cloud saves, and Family Sharing.
How Co-Op Mechanics Work in Chained Beasts
Multiplayer in Chained Beasts is built directly around its core mechanic: your team is physically chained together in the Colosseum.
- Chained Coordination: Moving carelessly can leave your squad tangled around pillars or dragged into hazard zones. Moving in unison allows you to clothesline opponents, trip oncoming enemies, and coordinate crowd-pleasing takedowns.
- Arena Hazards: Players can throw urns, hurl opponents into spike walls, or force targets into snake pits. You can also throw weapons at distant foes, provided you have a backup weapon nearby.
- Progression and Acts: Squads battle through 9 grueling arena encounters divided into 3 acts, capped with brutal arena bosses. Runs feature 10 progressive difficulty tiers.
- Afflictions and Upgrades: Combat results in persistent physical and mental wounds. Teams must manage over 70 debilitating afflictions (such as limps, lost eyes, or hallucinations), while unlocking over 70 skills, 40+ arena items, and 8 distinct playable beasts with alternate variants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Chained Beasts feature crossplay?
Yes. Featherweight Games confirmed online cross-play support, and both Steam and Xbox product pages list cross-platform multiplayer functionality.
Can Steam players on Mac play with PC players on Windows?
Yes. Both Windows and macOS versions are supported on Steam with cross-platform multiplayer. Early forum reports of connection drops between Windows and Mac players were addressed and resolved.
What is the launch price and discount for Chained Beasts?
The base price is $19.99 USD, launching with a 35% discount for the first two weeks at $12.99 USD on October 15, 2026. The game is also included on Xbox Game Pass at launch.
How many players can play Chained Beasts simultaneously?
Chained Beasts supports 1 to 4 players in both online co-op and local shared/split-screen modes.
