Grounded on PS5: Crossplay Setup, Multiplayer Connection, and Performance Tips

Grounded, the survival game where you're shrunk to the size of an ant in a backyard, has expanded to PlayStation 5 with full crossplay support. This means PC, Xbox, and PlayStation players can explore the backyard together. But setting up crossplay and maintaining stable multiplayer connections requires some configuration.

Grounded's PS5 Status

Grounded fully supports PS5, including:

• Native PS5 version with DualSense haptic feedback
• Full crossplay with PC (Steam, Xbox app) and Xbox consoles
• Shared progression through Microsoft account linking
• Local split-screen co-op on PS5

The PS5 version runs at higher frame rates and faster loading times compared to PS4, making it the preferred console option.

Setting Up Crossplay

Crossplay in Grounded works through Microsoft accounts, regardless of platform. Here's the setup process:

For PlayStation Players

1. Create or sign into a Microsoft account
2. Link your Microsoft account to your PlayStation Network account through Grounded's settings
3. Have your crossplay friends do the same on their platforms
4. Add friends through the Microsoft system, not PlayStation Network

For PC Players

1. Sign into Grounded with your Microsoft account
2. Your Steam or Xbox app friends who also have Microsoft accounts linked will appear
3. Invite them through the in-game friends list

Common Crossplay Setup Issues

Friends not appearing — Ensure all players have linked Microsoft accounts. The friends list operates through Microsoft's system, not platform-specific friend lists.

Version mismatch — All players must be on the same game version. Update before attempting to connect.

Tutorial requirement — All players must have completed the initial tutorial and reached the first base location before multiplayer unlocks.

Multiplayer Connection Troubleshooting

If you can't join a friend's game despite correct setup:

Check NAT Type

Grounded uses peer-to-peer connections for multiplayer. NAT type significantly affects your ability to connect:

• Open NAT — Best experience, no connection issues
• Moderate NAT — Works for most scenarios
• Strict NAT — Prevents incoming connections, breaks multiplayer

Enable UPnP on your router to automatically configure NAT. If UPnP isn't available, manual port forwarding may be necessary.

Network Stability

Multiplayer sessions are hosted by one player, and all participants depend on the host's connection quality. If the host has a poor connection, everyone experiences lag.

GearUP can improve connection stability by optimizing routing between players. This is particularly helpful when playing with friends in different regions:

1. Download GearUP and search for Grounded
2. Start the boost before launching the game
3. The optimized route helps maintain stable connections during long play sessions

Platform-Specific Fixes

PlayStation — Restart the PS5 network settings: Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection > select your network > Advanced Settings > DNS > set to manual

Xbox — Clear the MAC address: Settings > Network > Advanced Settings > Alternate MAC Address > Clear

PC — Verify game files through Steam or the Xbox app to fix corrupted network-related files.

Performance on PS5

Grounded on PS5 offers performance benefits:

• Performance Mode — Targets 60fps for smoother gameplay
• Quality Mode — Higher visual fidelity at 30fps
• Faster loading — SSD dramatically reduces load times

For multiplayer, Performance Mode is recommended because smoother frame rates help with combat responsiveness.

Long Session Stability

Grounded sessions can last hours. For extended play:

• Use a wired connection to prevent Wi-Fi fatigue
• Close other bandwidth-consuming applications
• Monitor your ping periodically to catch degradation early
• If lag develops mid-session, try reconnecting through GearUP to refresh the route

The backyard is a big place. With proper crossplay setup and connection optimization, you and your friends can explore every inch of it together.