Local and online player counts
Steam describes SONIC PICO PARK as supporting 2–8 players locally or online, with online crossplay. Nintendo’s announcement also lists 2–8 players for Switch and Switch 2.
| Version | Local play | Online play |
|---|---|---|
| Windows / Steam | 2–8 players | Up to 8; crossplay announced |
| Switch / Switch 2 | 2–8 players | 2–8; Nintendo Switch Online required |
| PS5 | Store feature list: 1–4; description: 2–8 | Up to 8; PS Plus required |
The PS5 feature list and body text conflict in both the US and Japanese stores. Treat the PS5 local limit as unsettled rather than assuming that either number is the final limit. The “1” in the feature list does not settle whether there is a native solo mode.
Can local players join an online game?
On PC, yes: Steam says that up to seven local players can join online from one PC. The advertised total remains eight players; this is not seven local players plus eight additional online players.
That PC statement does not specify the same arrangement for PS5, Switch or Xbox. Console mixed-session limits and guest-account requirements need to be checked separately.
Crossplay and cross-save are different
Crossplay means playing together across platforms, and is announced for online play. It does not automatically mean that saves or purchases carry between every version.
Xbox Play Anywhere applies to qualifying Xbox/Windows Store digital versions. Read the Xbox purchase and save details before assuming that a Steam or console purchase includes another version.
Console online subscriptions
For Switch and Switch 2 online play, Nintendo specifies Nintendo Switch Online membership, a Nintendo Account and internet access. Country restrictions apply. Additional games, systems or accessories may be needed for local play, depending on the setup.
PS5 online play requires PS Plus. PlayStation’s US support documentation lists online multiplayer in Essential, Extra and Premium; tier names and availability may differ by region. With an active subscription, online multiplayer benefits can be shared on one designated PS5 with Console Sharing and Offline Play enabled, subject to parental controls. This general entitlement does not establish how many local players this particular game admits to an online session.
Planning your group
Choose your platforms and local/online arrangement first. Crossplay is announced, but platform-pairing details and invitation steps are not listed here. For PS5 controls and communication options, see accessibility and Quick Chat.