Where to buy Chained Beasts
Four official storefronts, one launch-day release. Here is the straight comparison: Steam, Game Pass, PS5 and Switch — plus which version makes sense for how you actually play.
Official stores
Steam
Windows and macOS. Own it permanently, use Steam Cloud, Remote Play Together and cross-platform multiplayer.
$19.99 · 35% off launch
Open SteamXbox & Windows PCXbox Game Pass
Day-one access on Game Pass for Xbox and Windows PC. The cheapest way in if you already subscribe.
Included with Game Pass
Open Xbox storePS5PlayStation 5
Buy on the PlayStation Store. Online crossplay works with PC, Xbox and Switch players.
Check PS Store
Open PS StoreSwitchNintendo Switch
Buy on the Nintendo eShop. Same launch-day release and online crossplay with other platforms.
Check eShop
Open eShopSteam vs Game Pass
| Question | Steam | Game Pass |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | You own the game permanently. | Access while subscribed; cancel and you lose access. |
| Platforms | Windows and macOS. | Xbox and Windows PC. |
| Price at launch | $19.99, or $12.99 with the launch discount. | Included if you already subscribe. |
| Crossplay | Yes, with PC and console players. | Yes, with PC and console players. |
| Extra Steam features | Steam Cloud, Remote Play Together, Family Sharing. | Xbox/PC ecosystem, no Steam features. |
Which version should you get?
- You already pay for Game Pass: start there. It is the lowest upfront cost, and you can buy later if you want to keep it.
- You want to own it forever: buy on Steam or the console store. A subscription is not ownership.
- You play on Mac: Steam is the version to check; Game Pass for Windows PC does not cover macOS.
- You play on PS5 or Switch: use the official console store. Crossplay still works with PC and Xbox players.
- You want couch co-op on PC: Steam is the relevant version; remember that same-screen co-op needs at least one gamepad.
What you get in the 1.0 release
- Three acts: Carthage, Germania and Rome.
- Nine battles across the three acts, with a boss at the end of each.
- Ten difficulty levels.
- 70+ skills, 70+ afflictions and 40+ items.
- Eight playable beasts plus variants and cosmetics.
- Online crossplay, couch co-op and single-player.
- Full controller support; same-screen co-op on PC requires a gamepad.
Before you buy
Chained Beasts is a co-op gladiator roguelike, not a hardcore survival sandbox and not a browser game. If you want a story-driven single-player game, it supports solo play; if you want a party game with friends, the chain and the affliction system are the reason to bring a crew.
The free Carthage demo was removed at launch. There is no current demo to try, so use the store page, the trailer and this guide to decide.
Official links
Where to buy FAQ
Where is the cheapest place to buy Chained Beasts?
It depends on your region and whether you already have Game Pass. Steam launched at $19.99 with a 35% discount to $12.99 for two weeks. Game Pass is the cheapest option if you already subscribe, but you lose access if you cancel. Check each store for your regional price.
Is Chained Beasts on Game Pass?
Yes. It launched day one on Game Pass for Xbox and Windows PC on 15 October 2026.
Should I buy on Steam or play on Game Pass?
Choose Steam if you want to own the game permanently, play on macOS, use Steam Cloud or Remote Play Together. Choose Game Pass if you already subscribe and want the lowest upfront cost. Crossplay works either way.
Does Chained Beasts support crossplay?
Yes. Online co-op supports cross-platform play across PC and consoles. Couch co-op is also supported; on PC, same-screen co-op requires at least one gamepad.
Is there a browser version?
No. Chained Beasts is a PC and console game. There is no official browser build, and this guide does not embed a fake player.
Is the demo still available?
No. The free Carthage demo was taken offline when the full game launched on 15 October 2026.
Does the game support controllers?
Yes, it has full controller support and the Steam page recommends a gamepad. Local same-screen co-op on PC requires at least one gamepad.
Is there a physical edition?
No physical edition has been announced. The launch is digital on Steam, Xbox, PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch.
Ready for the arena?
Read the combat and co-op guides before your first run.