This is a game-changer (no pun intended)
Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) has announced cross-platform play for the first time.
Essentially, that means that PlayStation players will now be able to play against Xbox One owners for (pretty much) the first time ever.
It will start with an open beta beginning today for Fortnite (what else?), allowing “cross platform gameplay, progression and commerce” across PlayStation 4, Android, iOS, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, and Mac.
Previously, it was possible to play Fortnite against users other platforms with a bit of fiddling – but even that did not allow for PlayStation players to take on opponents using Xbox One or Nintendo Switch.
In a statement, Sony said it “represents a major policy change for SIE”. For a long time, it seemed they were very resistant to any kind of interaction with other consoles.
“Following a comprehensive evaluation process, SIE has identified a path toward supporting cross-platform features for select third party content,” the statement continued. “We recognise that PS4 players have been eagerly awaiting an update, and we appreciate the community’s continued patience as we have navigated through this issue to find a solution.
“For 24 years, we have strived to deliver the best gaming experience to our fans by providing a uniquely PlayStation perspective. Today, the communities around some games have evolved to the point where cross-platform experiences add significant value to players. In recognition of this, we have completed a thorough analysis of the business mechanics required to ensure that the PlayStation experience for our users remains intact today, and in the future, as we look to open up the platform”.
This is the first time Sony has let this happen – though last year Fortnite publishers Epic Games accidentally allowed crossplay for a brief period, before disabling it.
At the moment, it is just the Fortnite open beta that will offer crossplay. But it might not be long before your able to take on your mates who own a different console at FIFA or Call of Duty.
