Quick answer
Cross-play lets two Explorers join from Steam, PS5 or Xbox Series X|S. Use the game’s friend system rather than relying only on your platform’s friends list.
Set up the session
- Both players install and update their own copy. Console players also need their platform’s required online multiplayer access.
- Find and exchange your in-game We Were Here friend codes. Add each other inside the game, even if you are already Xbox, PlayStation or Steam friends.
- Choose a host and create a room.
- From the in-game friends list, directly invite your partner.
- Accept the invitation in the other game client. Check that the same lobby shows both correct players before the host starts.
Once loaded, make sure both players can move and hear each other. That separates a working session from a room that only appears connected.
If the room does not appear
Try a direct friend invitation instead of searching the public room list. Confirm the in-game friendship, matching updates, each player’s game access and any console online requirement. An empty public list does not mean cross-play is unavailable.
For microphone or walkie-talkie trouble after joining, use the voice-chat guide.