Big Walk’s online requirements are simple: one platform, one subscription rule. Steam players pay nothing extra; console players need their platform’s standard online subscription. This page is the launch-week reference.
Online requirement matrix
| Platform | Online play | Required subscription |
|---|---|---|
| Steam (Windows) | ✅ | None — Steam account only |
| Steam (macOS) | ✅ | None — Steam account only |
| Mac App Store | ✅ | None (Apple ID account) |
| PlayStation 5 | ✅ | PS Plus Essential or higher |
| Nintendo Switch 2 | ✅ | Nintendo Switch Online |
| Xbox | ❌ | Not available |
What the subscription actually covers
- PS5: PS Plus Essential is required for online multiplayer. Players who claimed Big Walk through a day-one Essential catalog inclusion still need the subscription to play online — the game being “free” does not waive the online requirement.
- Switch 2: Nintendo Switch Online is required for online co-op on the platform.
- Steam/Mac App Store: no subscription; the host’s save and session carry everyone.
Crossplay note
The host’s store and device do not restrict who may enter — a Steam host can open the door for PS5 and Switch 2 guests. Each guest simply meets their own platform’s online requirement. Guests do not carry independent campaign progress between platforms; the host’s save is the single source of truth.
Budget tip: in a mixed group, the PS5 player without PS Plus can join as a guest in someone else’s session on a subscription-free platform if they own the game there.