Enshrouded Multiplayer Guide: Max Players, Co-op and Servers
Learn how Enshrouded multiplayer works, the 16-player limit, host and dedicated server differences, shared progression, and co-op tips.
Last updated: 2026-08-26
Enshrouded supports online co-op for up to 16 players. You can also play solo and offline. For a casual session, one player can host the world; for a group that wants to build whenever it likes, use a dedicated server.
Multiplayer options compared
| Option | Best for | World available when host leaves? | Admin work |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solo/offline | Private exploration and building | Not applicable | None |
| Player-hosted co-op | A few friends playing at the same time | No | Low |
| Self-hosted dedicated server | A regular group wanting control | Yes, while the server runs | High |
| Managed dedicated server | A persistent world with easy administration | Yes | Low to medium |
The official FAQ confirms solo play, online co-op, and the maximum of 16 players. Enshrouded is designed around cooperation; Keen Games says PvP is not planned.
How to host a co-op world
From the Play menu, create or select a world, choose Host, set the maximum player count, and add a password if the session should be private. Friends can join while the host is online. The world save remains with the host, so everyone should agree who will own it before investing in a large shared base.
A password is strongly recommended. Use a unique password rather than one reused on another account, and share it privately with the group.
When to use a dedicated server
A dedicated server runs the world separately from any player's game client. It is the better choice when:
- players live in different time zones;
- the base should be available every day;
- the original host is not always online;
- the group wants scheduled backups and administrator permissions;
- more players or large builds make host performance inconsistent.
Self-hosting gives you control but requires a capable always-on computer, port configuration, updates, and backups. A managed host handles most infrastructure for a monthly fee. Compare both routes in the dedicated server hub and server hosting guide.
How co-op progression works
Many discoveries and quest changes affect the shared world. Personal rewards and character development still depend on each player being present and participating. For a group progressing together:
- Wait until everyone is present before completing major quest objectives.
- Let each character interact with important rewards and quest NPCs.
- Keep spare equipment and consumables in clearly labelled shared storage.
- Back up the world before major updates or configuration changes.
- Assign one administrator to manage settings rather than editing the server independently.
Characters and worlds are separate concepts. Do not treat Adventure Sharing—uploading a world for other players to visit—as proof of live cross-platform multiplayer. Crossplay for the forthcoming console versions remains unconfirmed; see the PS5, Xbox, and crossplay status.
Recommended group setup
For two to four friends who always play together, start with player-hosted co-op. Move to a dedicated server once different schedules become frustrating. For a larger group, choose a persistent server early so the save is not tied to one person's gaming session.
Keep the server region near the majority of players, use a password, make automated backups, and avoid raising the slot count far beyond the number you need. Keen Games' current server guidance recommends a 6-core/12-thread CPU, 16 GB RAM, SSD storage, and roughly 2 Mbit/s upload per active player for a 4–6-player self-hosted server.
Frequently asked questions
How many players can play Enshrouded?
Up to 16 players can join an online co-op world on PC. A server can use a lower slot limit for a private group.
Does Enshrouded have split-screen co-op?
Split-screen is not currently available on PC, and console split-screen has not been announced.
Does Enshrouded have PvP?
No dedicated PvP mode is planned. The game is built around cooperative exploration, combat, crafting, and base building.