Your game. More ways to play.

Local multiplayer, together online

A game doesn’t need its own online matchmaking to bring friends together. PlayBound provides two ways to connect, depending on how your game’s multiplayer works.

Virtual LAN for LAN multiplayer

Our virtual LAN connects players over the internet as though their computers were on the same local network. Each player runs their own copy of the game and joins its existing LAN multiplayer mode—from another room or another city.

Streaming for couch co-op and shared-screen play

For games designed to be played together on one screen, the host runs the game and streams it to friends. Their controller inputs return to the host, so local co-op and local competitive games can be played together online.

Virtual LAN requires a game with a LAN mode; streaming is the route for shared-screen games. PlayBound evaluates the appropriate integration for each supported game.

Let players use the controller they own

PlayBound supports console controllers, USB controllers, and your phone as a controller. Players can bring their preferred input device to supported games rather than being limited to a single controller brand.

• Console controllers: Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo, and other compatible console controllers connected to the player’s computer.
• USB controllers: Gamepads and other supported USB input devices, including options beyond the major console brands.
• Phone controller: Scan the launcher’s QR code to turn a phone into a controller in its browser—no phone app required. Connect the phone and computer to the same local network, ideal for an extra player when there aren’t enough gamepads.

For games without native gamepad support, PlayBound’s controller mappings can translate inputs into keyboard and mouse actions. Game-specific layouts and the in-game helper make those controls easier to find and use.

Available inputs and layouts depend on the game, device, operating system, and connection method.