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Why Can’t I Join My Friend in Mortal Kombat 11? Troubleshooting Multiplayer Issues

It’s incredibly frustrating when you’re ready to throw down with your friends in Mortal Kombat 11 and find yourself unable to connect. The thrill of online combat with a buddy is a core part of the MK11 experience, so let’s dive into the common reasons why you might be experiencing connection issues. The problem can often be attributed to a variety of factors, ranging from simple setting errors to more complex networking problems. This article will guide you through the most likely culprits and provide solutions to get you back in the fight.

Common Reasons for Connection Problems

The inability to join a friend in MK11 can stem from a number of issues. Here’s a breakdown of the most common ones:

1. Krossplay Settings

Krossplay Not Enabled: The most frequent oversight is that the Krossplay feature may not be activated. This setting allows players on different console families (PlayStation and Xbox) and PC to play together. If either you or your friend doesn’t have Krossplay turned on, you won’t be able to connect.
How to Fix: Navigate to the Online menu in-game. At the top right of the screen, highlight Kasual modes. You’ll find the option to toggle Krossplay on or off. Ensure both you and your friend have this enabled.

2. Platform Compatibility

Version Mismatch: If you’re trying to connect across different ecosystems and aren’t using Krossplay, there might be restrictions in place.
How to Fix: Verify that both you and your friend are trying to play on compatible platforms. For example, players on Xbox consoles (including Game Pass users) can typically connect with other Xbox and Microsoft Store PC players if Krossplay is not enabled. PlayStation players can only play with other PlayStation users if Krossplay is disabled. If you are not using the krossplay function, cross platform is unavailable.

3. Game Version Differences

Outdated Game: If either your or your friend’s game isn’t updated to the latest patch, connection issues are likely. Compatibility patches are crucial for seamless online gameplay.
How to Fix: Ensure both you and your friend have the latest version of Mortal Kombat 11 installed. The game should automatically prompt you for updates, but you can also manually check for updates on your console or PC.

4. Network Issues

NAT Type: Network Address Translation (NAT) type can severely impact your ability to connect online. Strict NAT types can cause connectivity issues and make it difficult to connect with other players.
How to Fix: Check your NAT type settings on your router and try to configure it to an Open or Moderate setting if you encounter problems with joining. Consult your router’s manual or online guides on how to do this.
Router/Modem Issues: Incorrect router configurations can sometimes hinder connections. Double-check that your modem is connected to the router’s Internet/WAN port. Reboot your router and modem to resolve potential conflicts.
Internet Connectivity: A weak or unstable internet connection can cause dropouts and prevent you from joining online matches.
How to Fix: Verify that you have a stable and sufficient internet connection. You may need to consider restarting your router and modem and testing your network connection.
Firewall or Antivirus: Sometimes, firewall or antivirus software can block access to the game’s servers.
How to Fix: Check the settings of your firewall or antivirus and ensure that Mortal Kombat 11 is an allowed program, or add it to your antivirus exceptions list.

5. Server Problems

Game Server Issues: On rare occasions, the Mortal Kombat 11 servers themselves might be experiencing outages or maintenance, which would prevent anyone from playing online.
How to Fix: Check the official social media channels of Mortal Kombat or Warner Bros. Games for any announcements of server issues or maintenance.

6. Incorrect Lobby Settings

Lobby Privacy: If you are trying to join a custom lobby that is set to private or already full, you won’t be able to connect.
How to Fix: Confirm that the lobby is set up correctly. Ensure that it is set to be open to others or that the correct friend ID is being used when creating the lobby.

7. Xbox Live/PS Plus Subscription

Online Subscription Requirement: On both PlayStation and Xbox, a subscription to their online services is required to access online multiplayer features.
How to Fix: Make sure you have an active Xbox Live Gold or PlayStation Plus subscription in order to play with friends online.

8. Game Installation

Incomplete Installation: If the game is still in the process of installing, some online features may be unavailable.
How to Fix: Wait for the game to fully install before attempting to play online. You can access other game modes, but online features may be locked.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What exactly is “Krossplay” in Mortal Kombat 11?

Krossplay is a feature that allows players on different platforms to play against each other online. This enables PlayStation (PS4 and PS5), Xbox (Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S), and PC users to engage in multiplayer battles together.

2. How do I know if Krossplay is enabled?

To confirm Krossplay is active, go to the Online menu, highlight Kasual, and look for the Krossplay toggle option at the top-right. Make sure it’s toggled on for both you and your friend.

3. Do I need a PlayStation Plus or Xbox Live Gold subscription to play MK11 online with friends?

Yes, an active PlayStation Plus subscription is necessary to play online with friends on PlayStation, and Xbox Live Gold is required for online multiplayer on Xbox.

4. Can I play with friends on a different console generation (e.g., PS4 with PS5)?

Yes, **Mortal Kombat 11 supports cross-generation play within the same console family**. A PS4 user can play with a PS5 user and an Xbox One user can play with an Xbox Series X|S user.

5. What if I have a different region version of the game than my friend?

 Different region versions can cause compatibility issues. Make sure you and your friend have the **same region version** of **Mortal Kombat 11**.

6. How can I check my network NAT type?

You can usually find your NAT type in your console or PC network settings. For specific steps, consult your platform’s official support guide.

7. How do I create a private lobby for playing with friends?

From the main menu, select **Fight**, then **Online**. In the private section, choose **Kustom Lobby**. Configure your lobby settings and send invites to your friends using their Player IDs.

8. Can I play with my friend if I’m using the Xbox Game Pass version and they are not?

Yes, if you’re on Xbox or the Microsoft Store PC, you can play together, with or without the Xbox Game Pass, as long as you are using the same platform and Krossplay is not enabled. Krossplay is required to play cross platform.

9. Can I play Mortal Kombat 11 offline with a friend?

Yes, you can play offline with a friend in Local Versus mode using a second controller on the same console.

10. What should I do if the game’s Online and Story modes are red when I start?

Red options indicate that the game is still installing. Wait for the installation to complete before playing the Story or Online modes.

11. Can I join a match with a friend if my game is still updating?

No, you will not be able to play with friends online until you have finished updating the game. Make sure that the game update has fully completed.

12. What are Team Raids, and how do they work in MK11?

Team Raids are a co-op mode in MK11 where up to three players can team up online to tackle challenges and defeat strong opponents.

13. How do I perform a Friendship or Mercy in MK11?

Friendships are special moves that characters use after defeating their opponent and can be found in each characters move list. Mercies are done by holding L2 (or equivalent), pressing Down three times, and then releasing the button during the “Finish Him” phase.

14. Is there a Ranked Mode in Mortal Kombat 11?

Yes, Mortal Kombat 11 has a Ranked Mode called Kombat League. You can climb through nine ranks, starting from Apprentice and progressing to God.

15. What if I still can’t connect after trying all these fixes?

If you’ve tried all the steps above and are still having connection issues, it’s advisable to reach out to Mortal Kombat 11’s customer support for further assistance. Provide as many details as possible regarding your setup and the issue you’re encountering.

By addressing these common problems and utilizing these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to successfully connect with your friends and enjoy the full, brutal experience of Mortal Kombat 11. Good luck, and may your fatalities be victorious!

Why can’t i join my friend in MK11?