coop guide | Updated July 30, 2026
Link a Microsoft Account for Halo Co-op
Online co-op, crossplay, and cross-progression require a linked Microsoft account.
Choose the account carefully and verify its Xbox Gamertag before inviting friends. Account unlinking can have restrictions, so use official Halo Support for changes rather than creating duplicate identities.
Link the account you intend to keep
Sign in with the platform profile you use to play, then complete the Microsoft account prompt. Confirm the displayed Xbox Gamertag before continuing.
- Check which Microsoft account already owns your Halo identity or Xbox Gamertag.
- Use that account during the platform-link prompt.
- Verify the Gamertag in the in-game social menu.
- Complete a short session and confirm progression appears on the intended profile.
Avoid duplicate identities
Creating a fresh Microsoft account can leave friends, progression, or entitlements attached to a different identity. Do not guess when an old email or Gamertag is involved.
- Search your password manager and Microsoft account recovery options first.
- Compare the Gamertag shown in game with the one friends already have.
- Do not repeatedly unlink and relink accounts while troubleshooting.
Before unlinking
Read the current official account-linking support article and record both platform and Microsoft account details. Some account associations have limits that a local reinstall cannot change.
Invite friends after linking
Exchange Xbox Gamertags, add them in the game social menu, and have the player with the needed campaign progress lead the fireteam.
Frequently asked questions
Why does a PS5 player need a Microsoft account?
The linked Microsoft account provides the Xbox Gamertag identity used for crossplay and cross-progression.
Can I invite someone by their PlayStation name?
Use the Xbox Gamertag shown by their linked Microsoft account.
Should I create a new account if linking fails?
Not immediately. Recover and verify the intended existing account first to avoid splitting progression or friends.