Cross-platform multiplayer has emerged as one of today's hottest gaming trends, bringing players together regardless of console. While gamers are traditionally segmented based on chosen hardware, titles like Fortnite, Rocket League, and Minecraft show cross-play in action. Its growth has proved divisive – many platform holders are actively pushing cross-play, while some face criticism for opposing expansion.
Fortnite was a key topic at Electronic Arts' recent earnings call (via GamesIndustry.biz), with executives keen to note the growth of the leading battle royale shooter. With the game's cross-play capabilities touted, VP of investor relations Chris Evenden, was asked how the publisher views its success. Eveden responded with an open mindset to cross-play, indicating interest in further exploring its capabilities at the publisher.
We're looking at key franchises in terms of how we can deliver cross-platform play in a similar way that Fortnite has, especially some of our titles that have a broad and diverse player base."
Furthermore, the company sees cross-play as a way to bring different audiences together, with the promise of more cross-play news in the future.
The ability to bring PC to mobile or mobile to console can bring family and friends together, and we think that's an important part of our future development profile. Expect more from us on that front in the future.
Despite pushback from some companies, cross-play is seemingly a big hit among some big titles. Opening more avenues to play and maintain stronger player bases, EA joins other major publishers keen to explore its prospects. While it appears unlikely that the upcoming Battlefield V and Anthem will offer cross-play support, it establishes strong foundations for the future.
Which Electronic Arts titles do you hope to see adopt cross-play? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Matt Brown is Windows Central's Senior Games Editor, Xbox & PC, at Future. Following over seven years of professional consumer technology and gaming coverage, he’s focused on the world of Microsoft's gaming efforts. You can follow him on Twitter @mattjbrown.
