Chained Beasts Single Player Guide: How Solo Runs Work, the Ball and Chain and Tips
✓ Last verified 2026-10-16 · How we check facts
Quick answer
Chained Beasts single player is fully supported. Without teammates you drag a heavy ball or are anchored to the arena, there are no AI partners, and you keep every potion, perk and affliction yourself. Reviewers say it works but shines in co-op.

Chained Beasts single player is a real option, not a demo afterthought. The developer's launch post says you can "fight alone or with up to 4 friends," and the store lists single-player first. This guide explains how Chained Beasts single player works, what changes without a team and how to get the most from solo runs.

How the Chain Works Solo
There are no AI teammates. A playtest preview noted that instead of a bot partner, "I got a hefty ball at the end of the shackles." Other arenas anchor you to a point or to heavy objects. You can still use the chain offensively by stretching it across enemies.
| Co-op | Chained Beasts single player |
|---|---|
| Chained to friends | Chained to a ball, anchor or heavy object |
| Shared potion pool | All potions are yours |
| Shared gold | All gold is yours |
| Swap extra perk | No swap, you just get a perk |
What Changes Without a Team
- You absorb every affliction, so healing decisions weigh more.
- The trainer still gives a perk; one creator confirmed solo players are not penalized there.
- Backstab setups are harder without a partner to hold enemies.
- Some movement perks are especially strong solo, a Japanese creator noted.
What Reviewers Say
Opinions are consistent: Chained Beasts single player works but is a different experience. A reviewer who played mostly alone called combat satisfying and builds absurd, yet said co-op brings out the best side. A Russian creator found solo "a bit boring" compared with friends, while a Japanese creator said the balance is not off; the fun is simply different, and recommended it even solo.
Chained Beasts Single Player Tips
- Start with a forgiving beast such as the Rhino. See the characters guide.
- Keep a backup weapon before throwing.
- Use the ball or anchor as a tripping tool, not just a burden.
- Save strong potions for bosses and offset afflictions with perks. See the afflictions guide.
- Try the free demo first if you are unsure.
Official Source
The Chained Beasts Steam page lists single-player among supported modes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can you play Chained Beasts single player?
Yes. Chained Beasts single player is fully supported.
Q: Are there AI teammates in solo?
No. You are chained to a ball, an anchor or heavy objects instead.
Q: Is Chained Beasts single player fun?
Reviewers say it works, but the game is at its best in co-op.
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Chained Beasts coop guide: how the chain works with 1-4 players, local and online options, cross-platform support, team roles and tips for surviving arenas together.
Crossplay
Chained Beasts crossplay explained: online cross-play across Steam, PS5, Xbox and Switch, subscription rules, local versus online play and how to find partners.
Local Co-Op
Chained Beasts local coop guide: shared-screen couch co-op for up to 4 players, controller needs, split screen questions, platforms and tips for playing on one TV.
Player Count
Chained Beasts player count: 1-4 players in solo, local and online co-op, plus the Steam concurrent player numbers seen around launch and what they mean.