Is cross-platform gaming the future?

One of the most intriguing gaming developments of recent years in gaming has been the increasing number of cross-platform titles.

The basic premise is that it allows gamers to compete against each other, regardless of the console or device of choice. That has quickly had quite a significant impact on the industry. Let’s explore this and how gamers are now playing their favourite games against each other.

Something for the less traditional gamer

Whilst much of this article will discuss and analyse the more traditional video games, there are plenty of ways that the less traditional gamer has been able to delve into a game against others. One example of this is casino gaming.

The number of people playing virtual casino games has remained steady, as players can take on the dealer in a live game of blackjack, roulette or poker. Because of this steady popularity, big brands like Paddy Power ensure that regardless of what device you have or where you are within the UK, there is the option to access the online casino to play on your mobile device or computer. Paddy Power’s casino app, for example, has been one of the most popular on the market for Android or Apple users.

On the subject of mobile apps, there are lots of ways for less traditional gamers to engage in gameplay against others. From Scrabble to detective games to virtual pool, there is clearly something to suit every player and every device. 

PlayStation v Xbox v PC

In terms of more recent releases, the eagerly anticipated Halo: Infinite allowed Xbox and PC gamers to face off against each other. What’s interesting is that cross-play is the default option for online multiplayer gaming. That indicates that developer 343 industries and Microsoft value it as a crucial addition to their games.

Call Of Duty: Modern Warfare is another game where its players are enjoying cross-platform action. With this title, those with a PlayStation can compete against their Xbox owning friends. That marked a change in direction for a series that has been hugely popular over the last 15 years. One expert has argued that facing off against gamers on different platforms has been beneficial for those who like to play competitively. For those who aren’t a fan, there is an option to disable the cross-platform option. 

FIFA gets in on the act

Fans of the sports game FIFA have been calling for cross-platform play for several years, and it looks like they finally have their wish. The recent announcement that EA Sports was testing it out in the Online Seasons and Online Friendlies modes with perhaps a look at it being a regular addition to future entries in the series. Football fans with a PlayStation, Xbox or PC will be able to test their skills out against each other. The battle to see which format has the best virtual footballers will be as close as the end of the 21/22 Premier League season. 

Does this represent the future of gaming?

As cross-platform gaming becomes more frequent, there’s certainly the argument that gamers will start expecting it in everything. With fewer console exclusives now being released, it makes sense for developers to try and include it as a key feature. After all, they want their online worlds to be thriving, and you don’t want to omit a high percentage of gamers from competing against each other.

Jim Devereaux
Jim Devereaux
Editor-In-Chief. Has contributed gaming articles to a variety of publications and produced the award-winning TV show Bored Gamers (Amazon Prime). He loves racing games, classic LucasArts adventures and building new PC gaming rigs whenever he can afford it.
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