Is Rust Cross-Platform?

Rust, developed by Facepunch Studios, is unquestionably one of the most popular multiplayer survival video games right now.

Given the fact that the game is currently available on different platforms and has the multiplayer function, it’s reasonable to wonder: "Is Rust cross-platform?"

Want to know what platforms Rust is available on and whether the game features cross-platform play? If so, you’ve come to the right place; continue reading to get the answers you are looking for now.

What platforms is Rust available on?

The game was first rolled out in early access back in February 2013. About 5 years later, in 2018, Rust finally had its full release for Windows and macOS after an enormously successful early access period on Steam.

In 2021, the game’s developer, Facepunch Studios, also released Xbox and PlayStation versions of the game.

Currently, players can play Rust on Windows, macOS, Xbox One, and PlayStation 4.
The game is also recognized as one of the world’s most popular video games, with more than 12 million copies sold in total.

Is Rust cross-platform?

Well, the answer to this question is both YES and NO. In fact, the game is cross-platform, but only on the PlayStation and Xbox consoles. This function is not available on Mac or PC.

That means if you play the game on a PlayStation 4 console, you can play together with your friends who are on an Xbox console, and vice versa.

As for PC and Mac gamers, they are able to play with those on the same platforms.

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Is Rust going to be cross-platform on PC?

As of this post, there is neither official information nor any indication that the game's creator will add cross-play to the PC version. And it seems unlikely that the game will allow cross-platform functionality for PC in the near future for several reasons.

One of the most important reasons is that players using a mouse and keyboard (PC gamers) would have a huge advantage over gamers using their consoles in terms of combat and building (if the game is cross-platform for PC).

Also, the game’s developer has been following a different development roadmap for the console edition of the game compared to the PC version.

Anyway, if you are expecting Rust crossplay to be brought to PC gamers, simply keep your hope and wait for the positive news from Facepunch Studios.

About Rust

Rust is a super famous multiplayer survival game from Facepunch Studios. Though the game was first released in early access on Steam in 2013, it has retained its popularity worldwide.

Rust can be played on different platforms. However, the game only supports cross-platform compatibility between the Xbox and PlayStation consoles.

In Rust, players will be dropped into a post-apocalyptic world that is harsh to survive. And the goal here is to survive in the barren wilderness with whatever materials you can gather or steal.

Wild and hostile animals such as bears or wolves do pose threats to the players; however, the major threats are always from other players (since Rust is a solely multiplayer game). Besides, thirst and hunger are things players have to encounter and manage in the game.

Mining and crafting are also parts of the game. In Rust, players can craft their survival gear and weapons.

FAQs Answered

Is Rust cross-progression?

Yes. Rust is not only cross-play but also cross-progression. Since the game is cross-progression, if you play on a different device, all of your progress and in-game items will be carried over and stay exactly the same. So, you don’t need to start the game from the beginning when switching to a different device.

Is Rust cross-platform for Xbox and PC?

No. Currently, the game only supports cross-platform play between consoles. So, if you play Rust on your Xbox One console, you cannot play the game with those on PC.

Is Rust cross-platform for PS4 and PC?

Absolutely not! Similar to the case of Xbox and PC, PlayStation 4 players are also unable to join the game with those who are playing on PC.

Is Rust cross-platform between Xbox and PS4?

Yes. Rust is cross-platform only on consoles. So, if you play Rust on the Xbox One or Playstation 4 console, it’s easy to cross-play with gamers who are also on those consoles.

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Bottom line

Facepunch Studios’ survival title Rust is currently available on various platforms. As for the question "Is Rust cross-platform?," the answer is YES if you are playing the game on your console, but NO if you are playing on your PC or Mac. Anyway, though the game is only cross-play supported for the console version, it’s still a really amazing game to try, especially if spawning into the barren wilderness and attempting to stay alive and thrive is your kind of thing.