The deposition, properties and application of PVD Cr x N coatings have been discussed increasingly in recent years. One reason for this are the environmental problems associated with the use of electroplated chromium and the resulting need for a replacement of the production method. Another reason for a discussion of PVD Cr x N is that the field of application of PVD TiN coatings seems to be examined up to the point were coating properties are difficult to improve by processing parameters. Cr x N is one answer to these two demands, showing similar mechanical properties to TiN and a good corrosion resistance. The following paper presents the engineering of functional properties of PVD Cr x N coatings performed at the Darmstadt University of Technology in the last decade. Boundary conditions of deposition by PVD r.f.-magnetron sputtering as well as characteristic physical and mechanical properites are presented, followed by selected tribological applications.