Palworld isn’t just about catching quirky creatures and building bases; it’s also way more fun when you play with friends. Whether you’re teaming up to build a shared settlement or battling strange beasts side by side, multiplayer adds a whole new layer to the experience.
This guide covers all the ways you can play Palworld with others, including co-op sessions, setting up a dedicated server, and how to make the experience smoother. We’ll also show you how to host a high-performance Palworld server using Kamatera, so your world is always online and lag-free.
If you’re ready to explore Palpagos Islands together, let’s get started.
Also Read
Best Palworld Server Hosting Providers
Is Palworld Multiplayer?
Yes, Palworld supports multiplayer. You can team up with friends to build, explore, trade, and fight enemies together. The game offers both online co-op and dedicated server support, giving you flexibility based on how you want to play.
In its current version, up to 4 players can play together in a co-op session when one player hosts the world. But if you want more people to join or you need your world to be always online, even when you’re not, you’ll need a dedicated server.
Setting up a server is ideal for large groups or persistent multiplayer experiences. That’s where reliable hosting like Kamatera comes in handy. With scalable cloud servers and global data centers, Kamatera makes it easy to host smooth, low-latency Palworld sessions 24/7.
Method 1: How to Join a Friend’s Game in Palworld (Step-by-Step)
If your friend is already playing Palworld and has multiplayer enabled, you can jump right into their world in just a few clicks. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Make Sure You’re on the Same Platform
Currently, Palworld multiplayer requires both players to be on the same platform (Steam, Xbox, etc.). Cross-platform support is limited, so check you’re both using the same system.
Step 2: Add Your Friend
You’ll need to be friends on the same platform.
On Steam: Add your friend via their Steam username or friend code.
On Xbox: Use the Xbox app or console to send a friend request.
Step 3: Accept the Invite or Use the Server Code
Once your friend hosts the game:
They can send you an invite, or
Share the join code shown in their game lobby.
Go to Palworld > Multiplayer > Join Game, and enter the code.
Step 4: Start Playing Together
After you join, you’ll spawn in your friend’s world. You can:
Help them build a base
Fight and capture Pals
Share items and explore together
📝 Tip: If the host quits the game, everyone else is disconnected. That’s why many players switch to dedicated servers on providers like Kamatera, so your group can play 24/7.
Method 2: How to Host Your Own Palworld Multiplayer Game
If you want full control over your world and who joins it, the best option is to host your own multiplayer game in Palworld. It’s simple to set up and great for small friend groups.
Step 1: Launch Palworld and Create a New World
From the main menu:
Click on “Multiplayer”
Select “Create World”
You can also convert a single-player world into multiplayer by enabling the multiplayer option in the settings.
Step 2: Set Player Limit and Permissions
You’ll be asked to:
Choose a max player count (up to 4 for peer-to-peer hosting)
Decide if you want to use a password or invite code
Configure game settings like PVP, building permissions, and more
Step 3: Share the Join Code
After hosting the game, Palworld will generate a unique join code. Send that code to your friends, and they can join via the “Join Game” menu.
Step 4: Keep Your Game Open
As the host, your game must stay running for others to remain connected.
If you exit the world, all players are disconnected.
Lag or slow internet on your end can affect everyone’s experience.
👉 Pro Tip: For better performance and 24/7 uptime, consider running a dedicated Palworld server on a cloud platform like Kamatera. It supports custom specs, SSD storage, and full root access, perfect for hosting private worlds with mods or more players.
Method 3: How to Play Palworld on a Dedicated Server (Best for Large Groups)
If you’re planning to play Palworld with more than 3–4 friends or want your world online 24/7, the best route is to use a dedicated server. It offers better performance, custom rules, and more player slots.
Why Use a Dedicated Server?
Supports larger groups (5+ players)
Stays online even when you’re offline
Customizable settings and mod support
Less lag and better performance for everyone
Option 1: Rent a Dedicated Palworld Server from Kamatera
You can easily deploy a cloud server and install Palworld on it using Kamatera. Here’s why it’s a great choice:
30-day free trial available
Global data centers for low latency
Scale CPU/RAM as needed
Full root access for modding and admin tools
Steps to set up:
Sign up at Kamatera
Choose a Linux or Windows server image
Deploy and configure firewall settings for Palworld ports
Upload Palworld dedicated server files or use SteamCMD
Start your server and share the IP address with friends
💡 Want help installing the Palworld server on Kamatera? Let me know and I can walk you through the steps.
Option 2: Use a Game Hosting Provider
If you prefer something easier:
Some hosts (e.g., GravelHost, ApexHosting) offer plug-and-play Palworld servers
Ideal if you don’t want to deal with setup or Linux commands
Is Palworld Cross Platform? How to Play Across PC, Xbox, and More
Palworld has attracted a massive community, and naturally, many players are asking: Is Palworld cross-platform? The short answer is — partially.
Current Cross-Platform Support
PC (Steam) to PC (Steam): Full support
PC Game Pass to Xbox: Supported
Steam to Xbox: Not supported
Steam to Game Pass (Microsoft Store): Not supported
As of 2025, crossplay is only available between Xbox and PC players who are using Game Pass or the Microsoft Store version. If you’re playing on Steam, you’re limited to Steam users only.
Why This Matters for Playing With Friends
When setting up a multiplayer session, especially a dedicated server on Kamatera or self-hosted, all players must be on the same platform/version. If your friend is on Xbox and you’re on Steam, you won’t be able to join the same server.
Will Full Crossplay Be Available in the Future?
The developers have hinted that full crossplay support is on the roadmap, especially after the game’s full release. However, there’s no official ETA as of now.
Conclusion
Playing Palworld with friends can make the game even more fun, whether you’re taming Pals, building bases, or exploring new regions together. You’ve got a few different ways to team up: join a friend’s session, host your own game, or set up a dedicated Palworld server for the smoothest experience.
If you’re planning to play regularly with a group, using a dedicated server on a cloud provider like Kamatera is a great option. It gives you full control, better performance, and 24/7 uptime, no one has to leave their PC running.
Whichever method you choose, just make sure you and your friends are on the same platform, especially if you’re using the Steam or Xbox/Game Pass versions.
FAQs About Playing Palworld With Friends
1. How many players can join a Palworld server?
If you're hosting a game locally, you can play with up to 4 players. Dedicated servers support up to 32 players, depending on your setup and hardware.
2. Can you play Palworld cross-platform?
Yes, but with limits. Crossplay works between Xbox and PC Game Pass/Microsoft Store players. Steam players can only play with other Steam users.
3. Is Palworld available on PS5 or Nintendo Switch?
Not at the moment. As of 2025, Palworld is only available on PC (Steam and Game Pass) and Xbox consoles.
