Microsoft is now opening the Xbox for cross-network play with other platforms. But is the proposal serious?
It is something that MMO fans on consoles have long been concerned about. While Xbox and PlayStation players can play numerous games like The Elder Scrolls Online, Destiny, The Division, or World of Tanks, they cannot do so together or against each other, but rather parallel, in their own separate game worlds.
With a console and PC, the so-called “crossplay” often works clearly (for example, in Final Fantasy XIV or the new Paragon). However, when PlayStation and Xbox players are to collaborate, it fails every time, even though many fans desire it.
The reason: The two giants Sony and Microsoft are obstructing. Companies like Zenimax (ESO) or Wargaming (World of Tanks) have previously stated that they would love to offer crossplay between the consoles, technically it’s not a problem , but “the big two” do not communicate with each other. That would be necessary for anything to happen. A representative from Wargaming mentioned this recently when launching the PS4 port.
Now the companies probably still do not talk to each other. But Microsoft has at least reached out its hand in the general direction of the other.
In a recent letter, Microsoft stated that it will support developers in enabling cross-network play. Players with Xbox One and Windows 10 who use Xbox Live will be able to play with other “online multiplayer networks”. This also includes other consoles or PC networks.
However, developers must support the feature. Rocket League for Xbox One and Windows 10 will be the first to do so.
A tactically clever offer that puts Sony in a difficult situation
Mein MMO states: It will be interesting to see whether Sony accepts the offer. It is somewhat “backhanded” that Microsoft says “We are also opening this for other consoles” without naming the elephant in the room: We mean the PlayStation.
Of course, such a step is well-received: Now Microsoft is the “friendly gamer” and Sony can refuse and be the villain. Or they agree, and then Microsoft is still the good guy. Either way, Sony can hardly gain anything from the situation.
If they really wanted “cross-play”, they could have clarified the facts behind closed doors beforehand, to then go public with a joint statement from Sony and Microsoft: We are doing this.
Now they put Sony in an unfavorable position. It still looks as if both companies simply do not communicate with each other.
