Sony 'Not Keen on Crossplay' - Hi-Rez Studios

Executive producer at Hi-Rez Studios confirms that Paladins supports crossplay between the Nintendo Switch and Xbox but not the PS4 as Sony is not keen on crossplay.

[gangsta_red]

This is pretty much official from Sony now. That they just don't want crossplay with Xbox or Switch.

Sad from a developer point of view that has this set up and ready to go and able to help their game stay afloat with users.

Also harsh on friends/gamers that might only own one different console from one another.

Paladins...I seriously hate these kind of F2P games.

[Christopher]

I kinda understood Xbox, even if the reason is anti consumer, but blocking Switch makes no sense considering how small the online market is there. Either way, this is something Sony is choosing as their spear upon which to die (not literal, but they aren't backing down and are upping the restrictions). Perhaps next generation will have another humbling moment for Sony to remind them how important it is to support consumers even when it also supports the other manufacturers.

This doesn't take away their accomplishments, but shines a much brighter light on issues like this.

[IamTylerDurden1]

We have no idea what will happen next gen. To assume Sony will be against Xbox crossplay next gen is not necessarily accurate. Sony was the one pushing Xbox for crossplay last gen, but Microsoft declined it. Things change generation to generation, i find it funny that Microsoft is attempting to villainize Sony for the exact same thing they dad last gen.

It has nothing to do with Sony trying to be anti consumer. The company with the larger install base has more to lose and less to gain from crossplay. That's why Microsoft blocked it last gen and Sony this gen. People are switching from Xbox to PlayStation at a high rate these days. There are kids who like their Xbox but are only switching in order to play with their friends who moved to Sony's console. If these kids were still able to play with their friends via crossplay they might not switch from Xbox to PlayStation. You get it? The implementation of crossplay has more potential to positively impact Xbox's sales and negatively impact PlayStation's. It would probably be a small impact, but an impact nonetheless. Hence why Sony isn't keen on the idea this gen whereas Microsoft wasn't last gen.

[Christopher]

***We have no idea what will happen next gen. To assume Sony will be against Xbox crossplay next gen is not necessarily accurate.***

There are no absolutes, but it is extremely likely that things will happen. Xbox will push their next console as being completely BC compatible with Xbox One, 360, and OG Xbox. In additional, Microsoft will use any PR they can to sell Sony as not being for consumers, which includes not allowing for x-play while they promote it.

I find it funny that anyone would think otherwise after Sony pulled the massive PR stunt about used/lending games with the PS4 after the XBO announced their original digital plans. Why wouldn't you think Microsoft wouldn't do something similar?

[Neonridr]

@IamTylerDurden1 - but it's the exclusives that dictate which console they support, not whether or not they can play with others from competing consoles. The fact that Jimmy can play with PS4 users in the latest Call of Duty on his XB1 is not going to stop him from getting a PS4 if he wants to play Spiderman or TLOU2.

[JaguarEvolved]

Last gen when Sony wanted cross-play between Xbox and ps3 Microsoft didn't want to do it. Now that Microsoft has sold only 30 million xbox one consoles compared to sonys 80 million ps4 they want to leach off of sonys success. Im glad sony doesnt want cross-play with a failure of a console like the Xbox one.

[Christopher]

@Jaguar: And what's their reason for not doing x-play with Switch for the same game? PC?

[ZeroX9876]

@Neonridr

Would love to have crossplay, but a lot of my friends who has Xboxes only bought it to be able to play with their already established friend list on Xbox. Worst part is that most of them hates Halo and gears of war (they all love the Forza franchise A LOT though!).

[darthv72]

@jag,"Last gen when Sony wanted cross-play between Xbox and ps3 Microsoft didn't want to do it." yes and the people in charge over at Xbox were fools to turn it down. Things are different now with other people in charge who WANT to explore that idea that was shot down last gen. Maybe you need to think that someone new in charge wants to make right what someone else did wrong previously.

Sony shouldnt be holding any grudges but it seems like they are. Neither side should be holding back on bringing people together.

[Atanasrikard]

@gamerzero

1. This isn't coming from Microsoft, this is coming from Hirez Studios.
2. Were you saying the same thing when Microsoft had the better, more successful console? Or was MS the villain back then for not doing crossplay? Hypocritical much?
3. As others have stated, the people in charge back then, aren't in charge now.
4. Have you ever heard the saying, two wrongs don't make a right?
5. You either aren't okay with it from either side or you are okay with it from both sides. You don't get to make MS the villain for something and then when they get people who are trying to make changes, tout Sony as a hero for the same thing.

One more thing, do you hold someone to a statement they made years ago, even though their viewpoint may have changed? People grow, people change. Same thing can be said about a company, since they are all just groups of people.

[Alucard_420]

@darthv72 MS said no to cross play at the start of the gen. https://kotaku.com/final-fa...

since someone flag me to be inappropriate I will put a link to prove my point.

[SpineSaw]

How exactly is Sony not supporting their consumers on this issue and to be clear their consumers are the PS4 gamers? The PS4 gamers are not asking for cross-play and in no way demanding it with Xbox gamers so how exactly are they in the wrong? I'm sure a few of the 80 million PS4 gamers would like to see cross-play with many more not caring either way and that leaves the rest of the 80 million PS4 gamers taking a hard pass on gaming with the Xbox crowd. I see this as Sony being very pro-consumer on this issue. Xbox gamers made their choice to game on Xbox with its empty multi-platform lobbies and if anything it's Microsoft being anti-consumer to its own Xbox users. How you ask? Close down the Backward compatible service and see how fast those empty Xbox multi-platform lobbies fill up and if they don't fill up well, in no way is this a Sony problem now is it? Time to face the facts that the PS4 gamers don't care about cross-play with Xbox.

[darthv72]

@alucard... you do know that Bahlmer and Mattrick were still in charge when that decision was made..... right? It wasnt until they both were replaced that changes were being made to undo the policies that were put in place.

think of it like out with an old president and administration and in with a new one who has different policies and ideas.

[TFJWM]

Sorry this doesn't really tell us anything other than they weren't keen with the way crossplay would be setup. Who knows if they were even given the option to just go with Switch. Considering Sony does crossplay with Switch and PC we really don't have enough info as to why they didn't do it here.

[RauLeCreuset]

"Why wouldn't you think Microsoft wouldn't do something similar?"

The difference you're missing is Xbox consumers actually cared about that issue when Sony mocked MS for it.

[rainslacker]

Sony doesn't allow it because they have no compliance standards in place to handle it. They can do it on a case by case basis, as evidenced by Switch getting a game with cross play.

The question is, why are there no policies in place? Is it actually Sony just saying no, or are there extenuating circumstances that Sony can't or won't agree to.

One thing I do know about Sony is that if something isn't currently approved by them, you aren't going to get much from them on how to get what you want. They'll talk to big devs or pubs about this stuff, but smaller devs don't usually get the same kind of consideration. They'll simply refer you to the current compliance standards, which may seem cold, but it's how they operate, and I think some of the devs that have talked about this issue in the past, seemed to think that it was evidence that Sony was actively against it.

[TheCommentator]

@ IamTylerDurden1

"I find it funny that Microsoft is attempting to villainize Sony for the exact same thing they dad last gen."
What? What does Hi-Rez's statement have to do with MS?

"It has nothing to do with Sony trying to be anti consumer. The company with the larger install base has more to lose and less to gain from crossplay."
The person who plays on the PS, the PS CONSUMER, loses out because Sony wants to make more money by not allowing crossplay... but that isn't anti-consumer? Look, you can defend Sony's greed all you want, but don't be ignorant enough to dismiss their clearly anti-consumer practices (it's not like this is their only anti-consumer practice, BTW, they have a decades-long history of it).

[Omegasyde]

Sony is not anti-cross play hence a lot of pc vs ps4 games.

However, Sony is a business at the end of the day.

Why
would
Sony
do
this?

It has zero to gain from this. It has the biggest playerbase and most released games.

Want to play against PS4 players, buy a PS4.

[Gh05t]

@Omega

"Want to play against PS4 players, buy a PS4."

Oh the arrogance is palpable.

What if you own a PS4 and want to play with your family or friends that only have an Xbox?

Not everyone is as homogeneous as you, some of us like to play with other people.

[Omegasyde]

^ “what if you want to play with your family and friends and only have an xbox..”

Strawman’s argument.

I could also argue if there was a mobile version of the game and complain that I can’t play my cousins on PS4 vs iPhone.

I rather Sony focus on game development than needless features that doesn’t benefit anyone with a PS4.

Try again.

[Babadook7]

Microsoft sure is keen (read vocal) about cross play though. At least now that they are losing so bad.

[Tres21]

How is xbox making sony the villian? Have the been doin smear campaigns?
And it does help anyone but MS? How about the studios that implemented it but cant use it?
If consumers wanted it last gen but they all of a sudden changed their mind when they switched to ps4?
If Sony keeps making great exclusive why would that stop anyone from buying a ps system? cause if someone bought an xbox and not ps im sure getting cross play wont stop that if great exclusive didnt help.
Sony should focus on game development than needless features that doesn’t benefit anyone with a PS4....we are talking about 3rd party games, sony for example wouldnt be working on cross play for their exclusive games u kno that right?

[bluefox755]

I don't think cross play is as important to people as you think it is. This is why Sony can ignore it, and it has no effect on their sales. No one really seems to care about the feature outside of people that use it as a console war talking point.

[pinkcrocodile75]

I'm not bothered about cross play between PS4 and XO, I'm happy for Sony to isolate themselves from the rest of the gaming world.

The longer they keep themselves isolated the better for the competition

[Alucard_420]

@darthv72 and what is your point? You can't just put that under the rug and look away like it never happened. They are trying to fix what they have done in the past and good for them. But you can't turn a blind eye on previous stuff from MS, it is still on the company.

[S2Killinit]

I think all this is paid for by Microsoft interests. Think about it, Microsoft has everything to gain and Sony has everything to lose. They want unfettered access to Sony’s install base. Sony would be crazy to give them that, so Microsoft starts a smear campaign. Sony should allow crossplay on a game by game basis so as to not open the floodgates to Microsoft.

[Goldby]

its not worth it for them this generation.
the only way i honestly see this happening is if it happens at the beginnign of a generation, aka ps5 and xbox 2

[IamTylerDurden1]

But you liked Overwatch?

[gangsta_red]

Yes I do.

Overwatch doesn't have a million UI strings begging you to purchase or farm for items to unlock characters.

[antz1104]

This game offers so much more content then Overwatch.

[XisThatKid]

Didn't know Overwatch was f2p

[-Foxtrot]

The issue here is that we're at a stand still

On one hand it's stupid for Playstation fanboys to state that this feature isn't needed at all, like it should never happen and we should all forget about it. It's a welcome feature that would help many developers spread the fun without console boarders.

HOWEVER

On the other it's equally as stupid for Xbox fanboys to completely ignore that there was a time when Sony wanted to do this first, like they've been doing with some PC titles for a while now but back then when Microsoft was "King" in their eyes they wanted nothing to do with it. Yet suddenly because Sony is selling like 20-30 million more then them they suddenly are interested and want a taste. Come on ANYONE can see what they are doing...they are doing it as Sony rejecting it is the only good PR move which makes MS look like the good guys, something they found out and are currently rolling with.

So it's not really a simple situation as it looks on the surface.

[Weeblordbad]

Different leadership, different times.

My whole thing is, some MP games that are more niche have tiny playerbases on both the Xbox and the PS4. Smite from hirez is a decent example, Verdun and Vermintide also fit. They're games that would be far better, faster and with lower pings (Higher playerbase, higher chances of connecting with someone who is closer geographically), all the arbitrary walled gardens with consoles doesn't help anyone on either side of the divide.

[Xavi4K]

I can’t beleive how many people defend this practice.... its always better to have more people to play with anyone defned any company for blocking crossplay is a fanboy.

[giovanealex]

Because these people above are fanboys. Can you see "let it diiiiie", "this failureeee" comments above?
It isn't even reasonable to given then attention.

[trooper_]

Why exactly should Sony do crossplay with Microsoft when they literally turned it down before?

[Teflon02]

Alot defend it as it doesn't change anything for them and unlike the people who just don't get the situation or are ignorant. Sony for the spand of the PS3 era was trying to get crossplay on titles. MS didn't even want to comply with PC to Xbox crossplay so they lost out on FFXIV. Don't know if it released yet on xbox one, but that's why it's finally coming to it. Alot of devs were trying to get crossplay but MS was acting arrogant etc. Now the tables have turned, so Sony doesn't want to mix playstation with the other brands. As you can see PC to PS4 is still no issue at all. Just MS and Ninty. I understand that. Plus the demographics mixing would be a bad experience for bigger titles. Imagine voice chat between PS and Xbox fanboys for CoD lobbies. Then switch with it's voice chat issue. You probably won't even be able to communicate with them at all... Too much dumb factors imo.

[badz149]

I am not one of those defending Sony's decision to block cross-play here but you also gotta look at it from their business point of view too and you'll easily see why they doing what they are doing. they are the market leader by a huge margin this gen with the most amount of players. it just doesn't make any sense for them to share. their ultimate goal is for the competing console owners to give in and buy the PS4 and play there all in one place.

[starchild]

If this was EA or Ubisoft you would all be attacking them over it.

The point is, it's good for gamers. What does it matter if they think they won't make as much money if they offer it? I'm not even convinced that's true.

[showtimefolks]

Gangsta

Ps4 has cross play with the biggest platform in the world PC

Sony sees no advantage in helping Xbox and as a business they have every right to be this way. All the Xbox fans are so up in arm about it where were yall last generation?

FF14 online being not on Xbox because of cross play

I just find it funny how yall try to act all innocent now when the brand you support is no where near as impactful as ps4

I personally don't think Sony should ever allow cross play with Xbox but they should definitely keep it going with pc and switch

Bill gates with original Xbox wanted to drive Sony out of business so to say there are no hard feelings is blind to the fact

[gangsta_red]

"Ps4 has cross play with the biggest platform in the world PC"

That's awesome, but not really the subject now is it?

"Sony sees no advantage in helping Xbox and as a business they have every right to be this way."

Except this isn't Xbox wanting this business this is High Rez Studios, (not to mention other studios that are in no way affiliated directly with MS). Why you cant seem to understand this as you defend this is hilarious. Funny enough last gen Sony never reached out to MS for anything crossplay related. But ya'll sure are acting like they did.

"All the Xbox fans are so up in arm about it where were yall last generation?"

Where were all the sony fans defending this like ya'll are doing now? Pretty sure you guys were demanding blood from MS for ruining the industry or were you making the same excuses last gen that you are now?

"...should definitely keep it going with pc and switch"

Except they're not even letting it happen with Switch. And seriously, listen to yourself, how petty and strange do you have to be to hope and want Sony to never have crossplay with Xbox but then turn around and be happy with PC and hope for Switch? Are you that upset at Xbox, personally, that you're happy that Sony will not allow devs to make this happen?

"I just find it funny how yall try to act all innocent now when the brand you support is no where near as impactful as ps4"

Not as funny as ya'll be actin when trying to make excuses for this.

"Bill gates with original Xbox wanted to drive Sony out of business so to say there are no hard feelings is blind to the fact"

Yea and Nintendo screwed Sony over more than a few times when they both had a deal to create an add on for SNES. But you seem to have no problems with Sony doing crossplay with Switch. And i doubt Gates wanted to "drive" sony out of business, more like they wanted their Direct X API to be the standard and they partnered with Sega to create the Xbox.

But I like the dramatics of Bill Gates wanting to drive Sony out of business better.

[darthv72]

you do know that "biggest platform in the world" part is all smoke and mirrors.... right? you are taking in PC as a whole when the actual percentage of PC's that are gaming class is significantly small. There are more business class PC's in the world than there are gaming class, perhaps even more than all consoles combined so to have x-play with PC is a drop of water in the ocean.

And to be fair, it wasn't Bill Gates that wanted to do anything to Sony. It was Steve Bahlmer. the very same head of Ms in the 7th gen that put the kibosh on x-play when Sony offered.

[Kribwalker]

We’ve seen this many times before, some individuals said there was never any proof that sony was the ones holding this back, that it was MS policies holding it back. Well this dev straight out said it. Sony are the ones holding it back

[ziggurcat]

There's still no evidence as it still doesn't explain why. It, again, only shows they've (possibly) said no (only possibly since there's no direct quote from Sony stating they're not "keen", and he could have been editorializing if he received a non-response... as is typically the case).

You still can't rule out policies - whether they're MS's, Sony's or a combination of both.

[Gazondaily]

Unbelievable...

[Kribwalker]

@Ziggurcat

You can’t honestly be serious right now can you? This is what the 3rd?4th?5th? game that has come out doing crossplay with everyone but sony where the devs have been asked why not on PS4 and the devs have all alluded to the same thing, with this dev coming right out and stating sony doesn’t want it 🤣

Do we need to go back to crash bandicoot where the writing was on the wall but your ever changing burden of proof was was so strict you wouldn’t even entertain the idea of it?

Switch/Xbox crossplay keeps happening. Sony is the only one not there, a dev calls them out directly today on it and that’s still not enough proof? WOW

[rainslacker]

I read the quotes, and I don't see any proof here either. Sony doesn't have policies in place for cross play with Xbox, so of course they're going to deny it to developers. Some publishers can indeed make it happen, but it on a case by case basis right now, and as of right now, Sony isn't going to spend time talking to all these individual devs that say they want it. These smaller devs would be troublesome to have all these different implementations. Sony does allow it with some games with Switch, or they're coming at least.

For this to move forward, there has to be policies in place to allow it to happen. But to the end, we have no idea why it's not allowed. Sony hasn't said anything. MS hasn't said what the hold up is. None of these devs talking about it have said anything....except one who said it was probably due to security issues. Sony said they aren't interested because of the moderation(or security) issues. The problem is, we don't know if they came to that conclusion immediately, or if it was after talks with MS, because I can't for one second believe that Sony refused MS call on the issue....assuming MS bothered to contact them at all.

But no one like you is ever once asking what the actual hold up is, because you're more interested in blaming Sony for it. You, and your ilk, made the assumption since day one when the Rocket League guy said something, and all these articles since then have just been self-validating as you take the same thing that was said before....which is really nothing about the back end of it....and acting like Sony is the sole reason for the hold up.

Truth is...you don't care one iota about what the real problem is. You, as always, only care about making Sony look bad.

Want to know the real reason. Go ask Microsoft, or Sony. Go to their forums and start making a fuss. Use twitter to get up with Phil the friendly tool. When they give you some PR nonsense...ask the real question...."What's the hold up, and have you even discussed this with Sony?". Tell him you're tired of the PR rhetoric surrounding it, and want to know the truth.

But you won't, because we all know what you are, and you don't actually care what the truth is.

BTW...Sony will have cross play Switch in Dragon Quest, and they weren't against it with FFXIV(MS was), so it kind of breaks your argument that Sony is completely against it. Maybe they aren't on board with random devs implementing their own solutions, and would prefer to only allow it with devs with a better track record of making stuff like this, and know to keep their damn mouths shut about inside industry matters.

[Kribwalker]

@rainslacker

Keep up spinning like that and your gonna get stuck. all of that for something that’s as obvious as can be. Rocket league devs have stated sony said no
https://venturebeat.com/201...
that’s why it’s xbox/switch but not PS4, MS said Sony said no, That’s why Minecraft is Xbox/switch/PC/Tablet. Paladins dev has stated just today sony said no , Crazy justice is PC/Xbox/switch, amongst others talking the same. Just wait till E3 when the switch joins xbox and pc with crossplay another one where the dev says sony is not allowing their fans to cross play https://gamerant.com/fortni...

I wasn’t on this site last gen but i wanted crossplay then too, i wanted it on the PS2/xbox gen.

Oh please send me a link as well as to Dragon Quest being crossplay with the switch as i can’t seem to find that

[rainslacker]

I'd rather spin and ask the questions, than be stuck since the Rocket League guy made his quote like you have been. But to each their own.

And of course Sony said no. They say no, because they have no compliance standards in place to allow it to happen. Maybe read my whole comment where I mention this, and respond to why they don't have compliance standards, and start asking the question of why those standards aren't in place, or if they're being worked on. Since you, or anyone else for that matter, seem willing to just go ask Spencer or Sony why that is, or who's really at fault, it makes it hard to take your argument seriously because you seem to just want to believe the truth you already believe, instead of actually caring about finding out what the truth is.

Since the first day of the Rocket Dev saying something, there has been not one attempt for people that want to criticize Sony over it to try and find out the truth, or any attempt to consider anything other than what they want to believe.

These small devs don't know why Sony is denying it on the back end or why there are no compliance standards yet. They just know Sony is refusing them. And as I've said since day one on this issue....Sony is denying it because they don't have compliance standards in place. This isn't an issue for PC, because they have compliance standards in place for that....and even API support. So, instead of looking at it as Sony is just saying no, ask the question on why they're saying no. They may very well indeed be opposed to it and will outright refuse MS attempts to make it happen. But show me where MS and Sony have had talks on it. Show me one single mention that there have been talks, or that Sony refused MS. Minecraft might be a example, but it's pretty obvious why they denied that, so look deeper.

You won't, because that's not what you do, but at least when I say what I do, it's asking for transparency, and not just assuming one party is to blame. If you want it to happen, then ask the right questions to the right people, because the past couple years of blaming Sony certainly isn't getting you anywhere.

[Kribwalker]

@rainslacker

Sony was asked why they would not allow crossplay and this was their response

https://www.eurogamer.net/a...

whether it’s just an excuse or what, but that’s what they have said. The rocket league devs and Epic have been in constant talks with sony and have said they keep getting told the same thing. No.

It’s been two years since the discussions really started getting louder for crossplay and the still have no compliance standard? That’s just a sad excuse you are trying to use to push your narrative.

So far we have big devs (epic games) smaller devs (rocket league, hirez) and platform holders (MS) saying sony are the ones saying no. Sony have a reason for why they are saying no. Media outlets are asking too. There’s one common theme here. Sony saying no.

Now, where’s this dragon quest switch/ps4 crossplay you were talking about?

[Aceman18]

I'm not losing any sleep over not having it lol.

[WickedLester]

me neither.

[Zeref]

More and more games will follow. And once fortnite comes out on Switch and has crossplay. It will only gain steam from here on out.

[Kribwalker]

yep. Fortnite switch xbox pc crossplay will be big

[DarkVoyager]

I bet half the people begging for crossplay want even use it in the first place. It’s just something to complain about on the internet.

[rainslacker]

The biggest crux of this whole thing is people saying they want to play with their friends. But there is only one game outside of MMO's with their own account systems that actually allows you to connect to your friends directly. Otherwise, it's just random matchmaking, and most of the time, people probably don't even realize they're playing with people on other platforms.

I'd imagine, to the very vast majority of players, so long as they can find a match quickly, that's all they really care about. Cross play could indeed help for the longevity of a game, but other than that, the feature would not be what people are hoping for. At least not for a while once things become more settled and better structures get put in place.

[trooper_]

Oh boo hoo.

A company is looking out for its interests, just like the other one who turned it down?

Unheard of!/s

[blackblades]

Not gonna hurt me one bit.

[gamer7804]

Agree with your first half but Palladins is actually a decent game, not for everyone for sure but i like it

[S2Killinit]

It makes sense for them. They dont need the player base of the other consoles. If they need it in the future they will ask MS to see if they want crossplay. You know like last generation when Sony did ask MS.

[gangsta_red]

You know....Sony never asked MS. Dont know where you and others are getting this from.

And by the way it's not MS asking here it's High Rez along with other 3rd party devs that have asked Sony for crossplay.

[S2Killinit]

Sony did ask MS last generation for cross play but they didn't make such a big deal out of it when it was rejected. Instead they put their money in their games.

and yeah, developers who currently happen to be making games for MS's console. Have you noticed that.

[gangsta_red]

S2KILLINIT...when did Sony ask MS for crossplay and for what game?

Provide a Google search and grab the link of Sony asking MS for crossplay for one of their games.

"...developers who currently happen to be making games for MS's console. Have you noticed that."

You mean developers who have their game across ALL platforms are asking Sony for their game to be crossplatform across ALL of them??

You don't say??????????????????????????

[S2Killinit]

I'm not your fetch boy, go find it yourself. and when you do, don't call me up. I already seen it.

[ChronoJoe]

Why do you hate Paladins? In general, Hi-Rez are great at playing fair with the free to play model. Pay £20 for the founders pack and you get all of the characters in the game, from there you never need to pay for anything unless you want to buy cosmetic stuff.

[salmonade]

Neither are the majority of Sony's fans. We're just fine and we don't give a crap one way or the other about crossplay. I personally just want Sony to keep doing what they're doing. They are hitting it out of the park constantly. Xbox fans want crossplay. Sony fans just want Sony to keep on doing their thing.

[Christopher]

I don't play online games often in general, I play primarily PlayStation 4. As a gamer, I'd rather other gamers have stronger communities when possible as well as less limitations on dictating how friends get to play together.

I get the business decision but feel the bad PR is worse than the gain they might achieve by forcing more people to buy a PS4. Especially this late in the life of the console where attach rate is the focus as they've already won the hardware sales for this generation.

This bad PR will carry over to the next generation, which will be a promotional point for every one of Sony's competitors. Expect Microsoft to push the line that they want you to play with everyone everywhere, not just on Xbox.

[salmonade]

I understand what you're saying, but I honestly believe this PR will not affect a damn thing. People are going to keep on buying Playstation consoles whether they have cross play with Xbox or not. People don't want to miss out on Sony's quality exclusive games. They will win next gen, regardless of crossplay or not. The PR from crossplay is insignificant. Games journalism does not reflect the majority of people's opinion. Most just simply do not care. They don't care.

[IamTylerDurden1]

Microsoft is already doing that, but imo it seems disingenuous considering they blocked crossplay last gen. Microsoft constantly emphasises their advantages and intelligently uses them to attack their competitors. Last gen they boasted about network superiority and even used it as an excuse to deny crossplay. They still attack Sony's network. How often do we hear about backwards compatibility? Even though Sony had it last gen. Then resolution and the power advantage. Even a year before XB1 X released Microsoft boasted about "true 4K" and literally made fun of checkerboard rendering and PS4 Pro. They went full force in attacking Pro and boasting about power when the first 4 years of the generation they were saying the opposite. It's extremely hypocritical and pretty slimy, but Microsoft needs to press the advantage anywhere they can right now. This entire gen has been filled with classless tactics, spin, and hypocrisy from Microsoft. But in all honesty i believe it's helped them stay afloat.

[Abnor_Mal]

If I don't play online games often in general, why should I care about bringing online community bases together. When and if I do jump on the mutliplayer aspect of a game, I would think the player base is robust enough as is. I'm not going to be on my steed white knighting for a cause I don't have a care about.
But that's just me, everyone has their own veiw. Mine is Sony is doing exactly what they need to do to stay profitable, if not they would not be making the choices they are making. I would think they know best for their current generation bottom line.

[RauLeCreuset]

I'm not getting the logic. What bad PR? Who do you think cares or is going to care outside of a small segment of gamers, mostly concentrated on the internet, and mostly composed of PS detractors desperate to claim any victory in the console wars? It's a non-existent problem, but to the extent that it ever becomes a real problem, it's a self correcting one. If enough people ever care enough to make it an issue, Sony need only reverse their position. What are you expecting Xbox to do? Whatever PR victory you're imagining this would be for MS gets crushed the moment Sony trolls them by taking an actual exclusive and sticking it into a PS5 to demonstrate the difference between PS and Xbox.

[rainslacker]

The bad PR, or good for that matter, hasn't seemed to have had any bearing whatsoever on this gen.

It's kind of good evidence that the feature itself isn't really that important to most people.

I doubt the bad PR will outweigh all the amazing things Sony has done this gen....namely, their strong focus on games, which is really what people care about.

[Omegasyde]

Why the f should Sony care or focus on crossplay when those resources could of gone towards 1st party games.

This is why Microsoft is in last place.

Priorities people.

[Vipre77]

The bad PR would be worse if they did it and it turned out that there was communication issues between the networks that caused performance problems, possibly suggesting some sort of inferiority to the other platforms that are crossplaying, especially if the other consoles have no or lesser similar problems. People would naturally blame it on Sony's network, which may or may not be true. That would be far worse for them because it's a double-whammy. Poor reviews on the PS4 version of the game itself plus their network, in general, on top of that.

edit: Sony seems to not think it's worth all the risk. I tend to agree even though it's something gamers might think is a great idea. Then again, I almost never play online multiplayer games. On the rare occasions when I do, it's usually on PC, not on a console.

[Neonridr]

these smaller devs want cross play though. Think of the additional resources that are needed to keep separate servers running for both consoles when crossplay can literally be enabled with the flick of a switch (see the infamous Fortnite debacles to understand). The fact that Playstation users blindly defend this practice is stupid. Yes Sony has good games, but that doesn't excuse this behaviour. It's ok to not be a blind follower, you can disapprove of things here and there and still support them.

[Gazondaily]

"The fact that Playstation users blindly defend this practice is stupid. Yes Sony has good games, but that doesn't excuse this behaviour. It's ok to not be a blind follower, you can disapprove of things here and there and still support them."

This 100%

[salmonade]

I'm not blind. I just don't give a damn about crossplay. It's so insignificant to me and most people that we don't care one way or the other. This is NOT a hot-button issue, no matter how much some media think it is. It is seriously insignificant. Playstation is the best place to play. If one of my friends doesn't have a PS4, I'd tell them to hurry up and get one.

I'm at the point where I'm honestly saying... Why are people pretending to care?

[Neonridr]

@salmonade - again, it's not about you, it's about these devs. Why should they have to spend money and resources housing separate servers for identical versions of games? Because Sony says so? That's a BS answer if I ever heard one.

Here's my question to you salmonade - how would your game experience change one bit if suddenly you were able to play with Xbox users as well in your online matches? Nobody is asking you to support another console or stop being a Sony fan.

It's great that you have zero interest in it. I am glad that your preferences and gaming habits suddenly speak for me and other people around here.

Notice how it's devs that keep bringing the issue up?

[Thatguy-310]

We aren't defending it but we aren't asking for it either. If a majority of the user base really wanted it then there would be a big uproar from the PS4 user base. If they allow it's cool if they don't we don't care. It's that simple. I for sure ain't going to lose sleep over it or switch platforms for it.

[Razzer]

"Notice how it's devs that keep bringing the issue up? "

Notice how PS4 gamers don't?

[fiveby9]

Crossplay is of zero value to me. I have friends who play on PS4 and some play on Xbox. Let's not kid ourselves that MS has the consumer's best interest at heart. They are trying to keep people from leaving Xbox. If people think Sony is going against their gaming wishes then they are free to buy a competitor's product. This is business. Pure and simple.

[Lovable]

Don't even care about crossplay...not sure why some people are making it a big deal.

[trooper_]

You're making a bigger deal out of this than it needs to be.

Like I said, let me know who's buying consoles for crossplay.

[ThanatosDMC]

Buy a PS4 fix.

[rainslacker]

They don't host separate servers. They use the same server, and that server manages the connection using different console maker provide API code. They'd still have to write the console specific code.

All cross play would do is add in another layer to that connection layer to allow interpretation between the different servers. As of right now, that code is also provided by Sony for PC cross play. MS uses their general TCP/IP code and XBL connection for PC cross play. I'm not sure what's provided for Switch cross play.

It's fine to consider the devs perspective on this, but also figure that these devs don't know why it's not allowed. Sony doesn't provide cross play API's for Xbox, nor is it in their compliance standards, so they're certainly going to say no to all these random devs asking them. That's Sony's typical response for things that aren't in their compliance standards. It's curt, and professional. These devs aren't spending copious hours talking to Sony about this. They're sending emails to their dev support team, and the dev support team simply relays their compliance standards if it isn't currently allowed. I've had something similar happen to me for a game I developed for Steam release years ago, and to release it on PS3, I would have had to remove code which was a core part of the game play design because it didn't meet Sony's compliance standards.

My problem with this discussion isn't about being forgiving or critical, it's that we don't know what the actual issue is, what's been done about it behind the scenes, if MS is really on board or if they are making unreasonable demands, if Sony is making unreasonable demands, if Sony is just being an ass about it, etc. Everyone is casting blame or not really asking what the real issue is. They're not even asking the companies involved. They don't force the question on the console makers, just take whatever PR exists, and twists it to meet their pre-determined view on what the truth is. I can tell this, because the arguments haven't changed for those being over critical since the first instance of the Rocket League, and all I see is a bunch of self-validating comments without a single attempt to consider any other possibility.

[shinoff2183]

We're you saying these same things last gen when ms blocked sony. Sony were the ones that originally wanted to do this. Now ms is ok with it because they are being slaughtered right now. I seen someone mention above and I'll reiterate if this were to happen that may keep some people from buying playstation to game with their friends.

[Kokyu]

I dont understand why out of the blue cross play is such a big deal. It was never a thing on 360 or Ps3 or any other gen and no ones "fun" was any less than before. Cross play adds nothing in my OP to a games "fun" or lack of "fun". What it does do is give Xbone and MS a thorn to place in Sony's side because they dont want to help MS grow live. As long as MS requires every user that cross plays with xbone to have a live account its a nonstarter.
This whole cross play thing is simply that PR for one purpose. Sony does cross play on several games in its catalog with PC. So to say they arebt interested in cross play is wrong they just arent interested in cross play with their main competition and I cant say I blame them.

[Kokyu]

@rainslacker

We do know what the issue is its the same issue when Minecraft was bought by MS and the rolled out cross play if you read the fine print it says clearly all cross play account must have a MS live account to cross play. Thats add false numbers tonlive and makes it look like live has more players than it does, Sony is not about to help MS shout how Live has more active players than PSN.

[morganfell]

Go Sony. You are doing the right thing.

[gangsta_red]

Morgan what about the evil Sony is doing by limiting the little dev and not allowing them to have crossplay among all consoles therefore uniting gamers!? Also as Neon said, allowing devs to have one server and cut costs and maximize profit?

Surely we need a hero to fight that right?

[Gazondaily]

Absolutely ridiculous. Praising Sony for this. My days...

[Mmmkay]

If developers cant afford servers for their mp games they should focus on singleplayer instead..

[morganfell]

It's laughable that the individuals who suddenly want to be the champions of gaming justice while also working tirelessly to support every action Microsoft does and does not take are the same people that attacked Sony early this gen for being the number 1 Indy supporter. Hypocrite much?

[Christopher]

***If developers cant afford servers for their mp games they should focus on singleplayer instead..***

That's how you breed competition, but making MP expensive and leaving it just to the big boys and girls!

[showtimefolks]

Morgan

Agreed completely why do cross play with a console which is lagging behind ps4 by 50 million

Last generation ms had the industry lead and they used it every way they can

Didn't allow cross play yet now complains

Were buying marketing deals and exclusive content left and right now they stance is its anti consumers

Screw it start offering better games so people have a reason to buy Xbox one

Gangsta
Septic

Both of you were no where to be found last generation and most likely were saying the same thing

Now Sony has the market share and by releasing Ps5 before next Xbox they will Once again remain market leaders so if people got a problem with sony and ps brand than learn to deal with it

By releasing pro a year before x they pretty much guaranteed themselves atleast a year on the market before the competition

[Kribwalker]

“I am the enemy of companies that damage gaming in the manner in which Microsoft has perpetrated. People are the enemy of games and gamers that support such companies. ”

So you are your own enemy? You say you are a champion against injustices in gaming. Against anti-consumer practices. Well this is just another anti consumer practice. I’ve never known a super hero to not worry about a villain because they like them, let alone cheer them on.

[AspiringProGenji]

Honestly, and I am not defending Sony, this is Hi Res problem, not sony or ours. If they want to keep a healthy fanbase, then make a good, original game. Paladins will always live in Overwatch shadow and Crossplay won’t save it.

Overwatch is in its worst state yet and Paladins can’t even bank on it because despite the issues Overwatch manages to stay relevant to the fans unlike Paladins. Again, cross play won’t save it.

While I understand what you are Saying @Gansgta, this is not Sony’s problem that hi res needs Crossplay to keep their game healthier and that does not make them evil. Paladins is just the only survivor and I give it a couple more years to join the graveyard with Lawbreakers and Gigantic. All Overwatch clones will perish and again, Crossplay won’t save any.

Paladins players Won’t care in the end. Overwatch has a much bigger fanbase and who is crying about crossplay? That’s right —-> nobody

The end!

[gangsta_red]

"...attacked Sony early this gen for being the number 1 Indy supporter"

So I guess the people who defended Sony for being the 1 indie supporter have now turned their backs on indies for wanting cross play.

Hypocrites indeed...Captain Hypocrite! Used to fight the evils of big corporations in support of the little man, bought and sold out in favor of the same tyranny he once fought against.

@Showtime
"Both of you were no where to be found last generation and most likely were saying the same thing "

And where were you Showtime, were you up in arms when MS didn't allow this saying how they're ruining the industry or were you making excuses like "market share" and "salez" in order to defend MS and their decisions?

"...and by releasing Ps5 before next Xbox they will Once again remain market leaders so if people got a problem with sony and ps brand than learn to deal with it"

So what in god's name does that have to do with the topic at hand. Do you just automatically go into shill mode?

[morganfell]

No. No. and...did I mention no?m Let me say it again. No. Unlike you I am not the flip-flopper that started screaming like a fish on a boat deck when the environment changed. I never ever wanted cross play with Xbox. Not last gen and not this gen. You should also go here:

www.rif.org

I never said I was defending the indies, I said Sony was on their side early this generation. What has happened to our educational system when simple reading comprehension is too much to ask?

As for those companies dealing with servers... deal with it. Make a game that sells so well servers aren't an issue. Cross play is your ridiculous solution? Suddenly having more gamers overloading servers so you have to pay for more servers is the answer? Do you really think selling a sparse few extra copies - realistically maybe a handful in the world because Bob or Ching or Yusuf bought a copy to play cross platform with their friends is suddenly going to solve your financial problems? This is the most artificially created issue with a fake solution in 5 years. If you are pushing some social commentary crap game no one buys then that is on you. Make a better title. You make the game you want instead of the one people like then deal with the results. Its called commerce. This is the game industry not California. Build a game more people want instead of pretending that getting people together on the same server will solve your issue. Acting as if cross platform suddenly creates a sales boon and pays for a thousand servers when so many people on the larger side do not want it is ridiculous. Its like saying if I could just sell boiled cabbage to people that do not like boiled cabbage and do not want boiled cabbage suddenly my financial woes would disappear.

Some of these smaller companies are simply being unrealistic. Try going exclusively with Sony and working out a server deal.

Here is the thing. The overwhelming majority of PS4 gamers want nothing to do with you. Just look at how you post and maybe that will help clue you in. We have all the gamers we need. It has nothing to do with defending a big corporation. In fact part of my stance is taken to deprive a big corporation who has harmed gaming (Microsoft) from getting a lifeline. The fact that some game companies will get an initial bruise or two is unavoidable. And a remark from gansta on that subject is laughable after all the times we have been pummeled with remarks concerning what a big rich company Microsoft is and they run their corporate aircraft by burning piles of 100 dollar bills. Well spend some of that cash and fill out those servers. Or better yet fire Phil, get some games of your own, and try increasing your own player base instead of being the industry succubus and trying to chase down the well fed gamers.

[XabiDaChosenOne]

Septic, gangsta and Krib are gaming justice warriors when it suits their narrative.

[gamer7804]

You forgot the /s at the end of your post.

[showtimefolks]

Gangsta

You know I have lived through days on this site when it felt hourly we got new articles about Sony/ps3 doom. Back than there was an open zone for people to say whatever they want without getting banned

I was here every single day almost. Lived through it took the brunt of the hate because there weren't as many ps3 fans on this site

Cross play didn't affect me than and it doesn't affect me now. If ms is so pro criss play where is FF14 online

If Ms is so pro gamers now why do they require xblive gold to play free to play games

Yeah I see none of you raise your voices where they need to be raised and here yall at trying to tell a company how it should act

More power to Sony if they allowed this it doesn't affect me but I just don't see them doing it

[Omegasyde]

Exclusive games > cross play.

Meanwhile xbox fans are holding their breath for a new system seller while getting crumbs (“new” backwards compatibility games!!! ).

It would be great if Sony could do this but then that would require additional overhead:budget.

i rather have that money ho towards a new ip.

[chrisoadamson]

is faster match making and longer life span of an online game not win win for gamers.... i dont understand your narrow minded opinion

[Goldby]

Matchmaking is fine on ps4. No longer than 30 seconds to find a full party.

[XabiDaChosenOne]

If a game is good it's going to have the player base no matter what. If a game it's bad it will not have the player base cross play or not.

[Neonridr]

@Goldby - we aren't talking about Call of Duty or Destiny 2 here.. we are talking about the smaller devs and smaller games. Their shelf life could be extended with cross play because more people as a whole would be playing together.

I never thought I would hear the day when someone was arguing against me when I say having more people to play with is a bad thing.

[Aceman18]

Where were all these whiners (bitchy devs and gamers) to rail against Microsoft when they denied Sony request to do this, oh that's right they didn't give two shits.

Well turnabout is fair play, and it serves them right now that the shoe is on the other foot.

[trooper_]

Oh, they were nowhere to be found, of course.

I don't fault Sony for looking out for their interests.

[Neonridr]

right, I mean who wants to do right and be above it. Let's just be petty and play the "you did this to me last time" card. Makes total sense..

[Aceman18]

@neo

You and everyone here complaining can cry me a river. When I see the feature wish list for both these consoles start showing crossplay as a major requested feature then I'll jump down Sony throat for not doing with.

Until then the small minority of devs, and small minority of whiny gamers are just blowing nothing but hot ass air.

[NeoGamer232]

I think it is status dependent. Last generation Sony fans wanted crossplay and Microsoft would not provide it. This generation the opposite.

The reality is that crossplay is good for gamers. And good for game developers.

Not so good for the dominant console vendor because then gamers have more choice.

[meka2611]

Man that is a messed up attitude for a gamer, but I guess it's fanboy in this case. More players is always good, stop talking like don't gives you money for defending them. I'll never understand fanboys. You guys sound like the dumb kids that say, "my dad is better than your dad"

[gamer7804]

That's just factually not true. For online gamers who wouldn't want to be able to play with more friends?

[Prince_TFK]

You speak for yourself or the entire Sony fanbase? Last time I check, N4G makes up only the very small minority of Sony fan.

[Prince_TFK]

Real mature response dude. Some people have friends who play on other consoles you know, but its not like you know anything about it.

[shinoff2183]

Yea Idc what goes on with this. I don't play online games. I stick to single player games. I like going at my own pace, story etc

[chrisx]

thats ok because PS gamers also don't give a toss about Crossplay. the crossplay noise only comes from the xbone camp.

[Christopher]

Or every single Indie developer who relies on multiple platforms to get online communities anywhere close to what AAA titles have, if even that. Just because an Indie is on PS4 doesn't mean it sells well considering how much competition there is this late in the generation from AAA developers.

[generic-user-name]

If the indie game is good enough, it'll find its audience. PUBG for example.

[Christopher]

I don't know how in you are on the Indie scene, but that's far from true. Many good games, better than many AAA games, go overlooked because of how hard it is to get a game in front of people in this day and age when you have no budget for marketing at all. Those people who catch the eye quickly and make it to something like Twitch or a conference stage? Those are exceptions, not the norm.

I've had Indies from past Indie Game Month events confused as to why we would want to even look at their game when so many others overlooked them. Bruno of Grim Dawn was even confused for a while as he thought he would have to pay for us to cover his game.

It's easy to say a good game gets what it deserves, but that's just not true. It's not true for some AAA games, it's even less true for good Indie games.

When a major manufacturer and publisher puts up additional barriers while others don't, do you think they'll go with those who support their needs or those who don't?

[Prince_TFK]

@generic

Using PUBG as an example is not right. Not every game can be PUBG you know.

[Goldby]

@chris.
While true that it is difficult to get the spot light as an indie dev team. You could also say they chose to make a game multiplatform and have separate servers instead of using that money for advertising for a single console.

While Ninja theory doesn't require servers for their game, hellblade was developed for the two larger platforms and used the profits they made to port it to Xbox. What is stopping other developers from going the same route, focusing on a single platform, ans use the money that would have gone to the other platform servers to promote the game and then use the profits to port to other platforms.

Devs are choosing to release on multiple platforms

[rainslacker]

Cross play isn't going to change the fortunes of these companies. Discovery is going to be a problem regardless, and if a game's MP can't thrive on a single platform, it's not likely to do much better with cross play enabled. Maybe by a couple weeks longer, maybe a couple months if they're lucky, but if a game can't garner the attention on a single platform, it's likely not going to do so across the board. Some notable exceptions can exist of course, but generally speaking.

[Neonridr]

it's the devs that keep bringing the issue up. People around here are just simply commenting on the issues that are being raised.

[gangsta_red]

"..the crossplay noise only comes from the xbone camp."

The Ark dev, the Tekken folks, these guys at Paladin, the fellas at Rocket League....all of them are making noise because there in the Xbox camp.

Makes sense.

[Kribwalker]

don’t forget crazy justice devs, and Epic as well for fortnite

[DigitalRaptor]

Listing out a small number of developers who have called Sony out or have talked about wanting cross-play is about as valid as trying to validate the loud minority of players who want or care about cross-play. And talking about it on and off ain't exactly "making noise".

I don't blame Sony for not focusing on something that is not high on their priority of list of things that people want.

[DragonbornZ]

As a man who has went through Basic Combat Training (and more) not too long ago, i feel relieved that "the us versus them" & "screw you I got mine" mentality is still so strong here on N4G.

Phew, what a relief.

[Pancit_Canton]

The REAL REASON why Xbox and Phil Spencer wants crossplay

https://www.youtube.com/wat...

Go to 2:10 - End

[gangsta_red]

So what is the REAL REASON Hi-Rez Studios want it?

[Pancit_Canton]

That studio is heavily connected with Microsoft. They been developing games exclusively for Microsoft for years. I'm sure Microsoft is up to their dirty tactics again, using 2nd party developer to spread smear campaign. Hey, E3 is just around the corner. This is like the politics of gaming.

[Christopher]

So heavily connected they've had multiple PS+ free packs for the game.

Just the latest: https://store.playstation.c...

[Weeblordbad]

Can we just ban Pancit_Canton? He doesn't add anything, he has two comments in a row that are clearly misinformation. Look through his comment history, there's nothing on the first page that is relevant or conversational in any shape or form.

The tribalism on this site is out of control.

[gamer7804]

Lol nice own.

[Goldby]

@weeb

If we start doing that there's a few others I could add to the list.

Videogamelab being one of them

[Weeblordbad]

"That studio is heavily connected with Microsoft. They been developing games exclusively for Microsoft for years"
No they haven't, they're privately owned and operated, they're not even close to a second party studio.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wi...

Your youtube link says nothing, just what Microsoft has been saying for awhile they are looking at engagement and GaaS stuff. You really have to be over the deep end to suggest that Microsoft is contacting independent developers to spread FUD against Sony, like...how invested in this "war" are you?

Grow up man.

[Weeblordbad]

Your sources? What sources are those?

I just play games man, I don't really care about the mouth pieces attached to them. The thing is, I'm kinda unsure of what exactly it is you've "exposed" here? If you could point to actual evidence of collusion my initial comment pointing out your inaccuracies wouldn't have been necessary. Yeah I'd like you to be silenced, but I wouldn't say I'm begging and it certainly has nothing to do with platforms and everything to do with your attitude in general. It's not constructive, you don't debate and everything you've posted is just childish tech tribalism. I mean come on the Wiki link clearly labels all of Hi Rez developed games and none of them have been exclusive to Microsoft.

[XiNatsuDragnel]

Not surprising since last gen

[mandingo]

Anti consumer

[DigitalRaptor]

Nope.

Anti-consumer is taking away things you had and could use when you bought your console or service. It's actively trying to screw you over and lying to you for profit. This is not anti-consumer, it's just a corporation that isn't bending to the will of the loud minority fraction of players. Until it becomes more than a minority call and enough to actually turn heads at Sony, it's not happening.

[mandingo]

Ok yea I suppose that’s the wrong word but it sure as hell doesn’t favor its customers. I’d just like to know why Sony is against it when it’s good for all gamers. Do they think they are above other companies by not allowing other gamers to play with people that didn’t buy their console?

[Liqu1d]

Paladins is actually free on PS4 since PS+ isn't required while on Xbox it's locked behind XBLG. MS are anti-consumer right?

[Vasto]

Awesome, I see more developers are starting to do this.

Thank you Hi Rez!

[neocores8055]

Well i understand why. Ps4 OWNS most of the market and what not. Back when XBOX was winning playstaion wanted to CRossplay with them but they kept staying on their mighty horse and saying NO THANKS. So why is it any diff now? Final fantasy 14 was going to come to xb1 but back then at the start of the gen they were stil lclose and thought they could get on top they said no many times. Now all of a sudden THEY WANT CROSSPLAY lol OK buddy..

[Kabaneri]

Thay have nothing to gain, this would only benefit Xbox.

[The 10th Rider]

...and gamers and developers, thus the gaming industry as a whole.

[Razzer]

So much so that people have stopped buying PS4 entirely and developers are not longer making games for PS4. Gamers, developers, and the whole gaming industry care about it that much.

/s

One good dose of hyperbole deserves another.

[The 10th Rider]

@Razzer,

Your reply is just ridiculous. How is what I said even remotely hyperbole?

I never said it would save the industry, revitalize it, etc . . .

All I said is it would benefit the industry . . . there's literally no reason it wouldn't. Benefiting the gaming industry doesn't have to mean it would have an enormous impact.

[Razzer]

Sorry. On reflection, no your comment wasn't hyperbole. Even still....cross platform play's importance is highly overstated.

[The 10th Rider]

@Razzer,

I mean, I don't think it would be a life-changing thing, but it would be pretty significant. It would be awesome if in the future crossplay was the norm instead of the exception. I've always been a PC gamer and it would be great to be able to pick up and play games like A Way Out, Warhammer Vermintide, etc . . . with my friends who own consoles. Or heck, if crossplay was supported with more games it might actually lead me to buy a console so that I can play "local" multiplayer between my PC and whatever home console I bought. With the Switch, although the library is light, it's pretty awesome when you can play crossplay. I can bring my Switch to a friend's house and play hang out and we can play something like Rocket League together each with our own screen, provided they own an Xbox or a PC. Then there's also B-tier games like the upcoming Sonic Racing that would gain a boon in the playerbase if they could make use of multiple platforms. Titanfall 2 was a great game that died quickly because there simply wasn't a large enough playerbase. Also, I think most people can agree if crossplay become the norm and we could erase the disappointment that comes from realizing you can't play multiplayer with a certain friend that owns a different console. It would be a step forwards for gaming.

I think the crazy thing is that literally the only reason we don't have it between all platforms is because one company is saying no. Some people make the case that it would only help Xbox, but honestly I think the PS4 is strong enough as is and crossplay wouldn't have much of an affect on its place in the market.

[PizzaSteve]

As a gamer this don't benefit me.

[Weeblordbad]

Smaller MP focused titles that don't have the same following as Battlefield, Overwatch or CoD also benefit regardless of platform.

[outsider1624]

Good. That should put all this crossplay to rest now.

[Wallow]

Idk about your other playstation players but I think cross play would be awesome, it really sucks sony doesn't allow it.

[Knightofelemia]

If Sony wants crossplay they would have done it by now Sony says no there's your answer.

[Smokehouse]

Of course not, they are a closed platform. They are a real console.

[Razzer]

When PS4 gamers start demanding crossplay with Xbox and Switch…...then and ONLY THEN should Sony even consider it. Right now this is just a trumped up issue propagated time and time again by Xbox fans. Why should Sony care?

[Furesis]

Because i care i want more people to play with and against. And with games that are older(or not triple A) its sometimes hard to find people, but cross play would help with that issue a lot. I don't understand people that are against it? Cross play is only a positive thing why are many people fighting against it? Maybe they just don't understand or maybe they are just a blind fanboys. Childish i say

[DigitalRaptor]

Not just Xbox fans, but they certainly like to beat the drum, don't they?

The actual PS4 fans just aren't loud or concentrated enough for Sony to see the demand. I'm sure that a lot of people wouldn't complain if it happened eventually, but you just don't see enough people demanding it and thus Sony not vying for it... and yes Xbox would like it foremost for the added "engagement" it would provide for their brand, and Nintendo sees it as something that could help their newest console continue to thrive, especially as their premium online service will be opening up this year.

[The 10th Rider]

Come on now, there's what? 80 million PS4 owners?

You can't honestly tell me that you believe out of 80 million people there's not a significant enough portion who want to play with their friends who own other consoles. Even if only one out of every ten PS4 owners know someone with a Switch or Xbox that they would like to play a game with online time to time, that's 8 million people. That's like 3 times the install base of PSVR.

[KwietStorm_BLM]

For the players**

**with exceptions

[Liqu1d]

Yet PS4 doesn't lock F2P games behind a paywall while Xbox does. Hmmmm.

[SpineSaw]

"For the players"............" ;with exceptions"

There's only one rule or exception................wait for it, wait for it

YOU MUST OWN A PS4!

[LOCO209]

I just wonder how they keep everything fair and square.. Serious question?
Like how would it be fair to be playing against someone that has a switch vs an xbox one s/x.

I mean their are a lot of variables to think about in this space..

I think that the devs are pushing for it specifically for a more UNIFIED playing space ..
That way if one console is more popular than another it doesn't leave one with sparse player population and wasted server space. (aka wasted money and players that can not enjoy as much because of lower player population)

But it has to be something that ALL manufactures have to agree upon, an agreement that benefits all and equally.
No chest pounding just everyone (companies) doing it to save some money and letting everyone enjoy.

(Sony) PlayStation is hesitant because they wanted this first last gen for some of the exact same reasons but nobody would listen, but now everyones light bulbs are going off.
But like I said going forward for cross-play everyone would have to be on a level playing field with no 'ONE' company claiming victory but all agreeing to move forward and taking credit and benefiting equally.

[Weeblordbad]

The hardware differences don't really matter, it hasn't mattered for years with the PC I don't understand why it would matter now? If you're looking to play competitive Smite or Overwatch you're not doing that on a console anyways.

[CrimsonWing69]

This is the one thing I think is lame about Sony. It's not like people are going to jump ship because you allow for cross play...

[The_Jackel]

but they do allow cross play. with pc and have for years way before xbox, it makes me laugh how it magically forgotten coz xbox started doing it. if xbox wasnt at 30mil units sold they wouldn't make so much of a song and dance about it because they are probably getting complaints from people having trouble finding players on some games and thats not sonys concern or problem thats xbox's.
Lets not forget who refused it last gen either but we have to forget about that right? because thats in the past yadda yadda yadda..

[CrimsonWing69]

Ok let me rephrase... I wish Sony would allow cross play between not just ONLY PC, but Xbox and Switch. I'd like to play multiplayer games on my PS4 with friends on other platforms without having to purchase the game for Xbox or Switch.

[ApocalypseShadow]

Been over this. No one can prove with proof that gamers on both sides want this feature. Both wish lists from Sony and Microsoft don't even show a demand for it.

And we all know it benefits Microsoft and Nintendo more than it benefits Sony. Even the marketing would change to benefit the other two...

NINTENDO **Play cross platform play games at home or on the go with the Nintendo Switch.**

MICROSOFT **Play the best versions of cross platform play Indie and third party games on the world's most powerful console.**

PC don't count because it's not a console that's in direct competition with PS4. That's why Sony allows it there.

That's exactly what the competition could use to increase their sales and slow up Sony's. You don't "willingly" give your competition ammunition to use against you. That's not smart business. Only if there was a huge outcry would Sony need to tell developers to go and "flip the switch."

They don't need to do anything but support their own hardware and their own player base. You want to play with others on playstation? BUY A PLAYSTATION.

[ShottyatLaw]

"You want to play with others on playstation? BUY A PLAYSTATION."

And if you own a PS4, but want to play with Xbox or Switch players, wouldn't Sony be smart to say: "No need to buy any other platform, play all these great PS4 games AND still play with friends on other systems"?

It is just as much a positive for them as it is the other camps. For that matter, if there is no "proof" that it is wanted, then what's the harm in allowing it? Doesn't seem like it's a big risk of hurting their business if so few want it. Hmmm...

But if you want evidence, here it is: I own all 3 systems, and I want cross play on all 3. There. Proof.

[Weeblordbad]

Your first paragraph probably illustrates best why this is a good idea for everyone involved.

[Razzer]

"No need to buy any other platform, play all these great PS4 games AND still play with friends on other systems"?

You are acting like Sony is having a problem selling PS4s. They are not. Cross play would help negate their installed base advantage. It isn't going to happen.

[ShottyatLaw]

Razzer

No, it wouldn't. That's the point. It can be a positive used to further prevent users from even considering their competitors. Pretty simple.

[Razzer]

I just disagree. If Sony felt it would help them then they would be for it. For the exact same reasons Microsoft was against it in 2011.

[ShottyatLaw]

Two wrongs don't make a right.

When you're concerned enough to blur out your competitor's controllers in a video, maybe you still care enough to leverage something like CP to your advantage.

[Razzer]

Did I say MS was wrong? There is no right or wrong in this at all. Look....these guys run a business so end of the day they have to take every advantage they can get. Sony has an advantage that Microsoft wants to remove. That is it. We can all pretend MS is promoting this for the good of gaming or some other such nonsense, but it is a calculated move. If nothing else, they can throw some bad PR at Sony while pretending they have some moral high ground here. It is just bullshit. Believe it if you want.

[ShottyatLaw]

You didnt say MS was wrong, I did.

So which is it:

Believe that 3rd party, independent developers want it like is stated in this article? I know...I know...it's all a PR ruse orchestrated by MS.

Or should I believe that consumers shouldn't defend moves designed solely to protect bullshit corporate interests?

[ApocalypseShadow]

Shotty, go to Sony's feature wish list site, then go to Microsoft's feature wish list site and come back and tell us how many gamers voted for cross platform play.

Not in the top 50...possibly even hundred wishes playstation gamers want. On Microsoft's, barely anyone cares as well.

It's a nice idea that most don't care about. If more games had it and it was allowed, then maybe more gamers would request that it's across all multiplatform games. Until then, no one really cares except Microsoft trying to boost their numbers and Nintendo needing to get their online off the ground. But the thing is, it's not Sony's job to help them.

[ShottyatLaw]

Perfect. No need to check the sites. I will trust you 100%.

So let's see everything we've established:

There isn't a large consumer demand for this feature. Agreed. Therefore, any business impact would be quite minimal (both negative and positive). Any negative impact felt by Sony could easily be negated by the simple PR statements I already pointed out. So with that established, what else do we have?

Maybe there's not enough support to even warrant it? OK, I already said I wanted it. Here is another independent developer stating they wanted it, too. Neither of us were on those feedback surveys I guess. Other little niche games like Fortnite and Rocket League want it too, and they've done the work on the tech side, so maybe there is some support for something that requires no effort from Sony...

But good news! Sony has already shown that minimal support for CP won't stop them from allowing it with PC. Well there's that issue resolved!

All that's left is....the poor, vulnerable children! Well good news again. By being open to CP with PC, Sony has clearly already found a way to protect the kiddos. I know we were all worried about those devious Switch guys corrupting our youth.

Well, it looks like we agree that all of the official reasons against it are bullshit, and we agree that there isn't some big financial risk in doing it.

So does this mean...a corporation is wrong?!?

[KwietStorm_BLM]

It doesn't benefit PlayStation, it doesn't benefit Microsoft, it doesn't benefit Nintendo. It benefits US the most, the gamers. The problem with this site, as per usual, is people getting so involved with their faux understanding of the business side of things and running to the defense of PlayStations dominance, as if that is threatened in any way whatsoever. Everyone already knows Xbox One X has the better versions of third party games. Did that slow down PS4? Not even close. So why would crossplay? There is zero downside to crossplay. It is healthy for the cesspool that the gaming community loves to be, and it is healthy for the longevity of a game's life, especially console games.

People keep saying of course Microsoft wants crossplay because they have such a small userbase, and PlayStation has no reason to allow it. Well actual developer studios have been saying they want crossplay too. So did Microsoft pay them to say it or is it just a good direction for gaming?

[ApocalypseShadow]

It's not n4g. Not enough gamers care if it's there or not. Even if it's a good idea.

If developers have a problem about Sony's decision, maybe they should make their own console and do cross play themselves. Oh wait, that costs money to do.

These same developers didn't speak up last Gen to Microsoft when they were leading in console sales in America. Why are some of them demanding Sony to do it now?

Universal online play does benefit gamers to some degree. But it benefits Microsoft and Nintendo more than gamers. Ignoring that fact is to be delusional.

[ShottyatLaw]

Exactly. Some will continue to argue against consumer interests rather than considering casting their favorite corporation in a negative light.

This most benefits multiplat devs and consumers. So why are some so keen to defend this petty corporate BS?

[Gamist2dot0]

Um..ok. And I don't care about it.

[MLGecko]

When they need it, they will make it happen. As it is, it is high risk low reward for them.

[Rimeskeem]

As I understand, they dont want it with Xbox. They have done it plenty with PC.

[Razzer]

Exactly.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wi...

[Goldby]

And switch, and Wii u.

[Rimeskeem]

It doesnt exactly have the infrastructure for fair cross play tho

[Brave_Losers_Unite]

PS4 will still have a bigger player base

[Silly gameAr]

Do or don't, doesn't matter much to me. Though, it's apparent that one group is more up in arms about it than another one is, and it makes me wonder if the group thats all for are really for it, or using it as ammo in their little war.

[Razzer]

"using it as ammo in their little war"

bingo

[TheColbertinator]

Don't mind me. Just gaming here with my Switch and Xbox compatriots. Sony PS4 owners can play with themselves.

[sactownlawyer916]

We will and still have a larger player base. But whatever fits your narrative.

[DigitalRaptor]

I love how this narrative treats the PS4 audience as some kind of isolationist group, when in fact there are more PS4/PC (the by far and large biggest audiences) cross-play games than there are games that cross-play between Xbox and Switch. Even with these specific games that PS4 players are somehow missing out on, its player base is bigger than both of those consoles combined.

[masterfox]

again? please stop bothering Sony with your desperation and nonsense, here is an idea instead of bothering Sony with this crossplay annoyance why you don't go and create unique games with stellar gameplay ?, because Palading is definitely not one of those.

[ghostrider32]

Why even bother? PS and Xbox fans always hated each other. Both sides are horrible, just imagine a merge. Kazuya and Heihachi, have a better relationship than those abusive ass fan bases.

[Mr Marvel]

As a PS4 gamer, I do not want crossplay either.
Sony have my support on this one.

[Theknightofnights]

How does cross-play adversely affect you if it were implemented?

[Slevon]

Everyone who says "That's okay sony fans dont need crossplay anyway" opinion should immediately be invalid and is such a stupid mindset. If Apple announces you cannot text android phones "thats okay i didnt need to talk to them anyway" quit being a fanboy, you're the reason they can be anti consumer with no consequences

[sactownlawyer916]

They aren’t anti consumer. If they were they wouldn’t be destroying the competition and settings records.

[Slevon]

Telling you that you cant play with friends on other consoles is anti consumer, end of story. Just because they are selling double everyone else doesnt automatically mean they are consumer friendly, it means theyre releasing killer games, thats it

[DeadlyFire]

Sony gains nothing from cross platform. They have the biggest online install base between the three consoles. If the shoe was on the other foot they would love to support it.

[XabiDaChosenOne]

Good job Sony keep the concern trolls crying.

[P_Bomb]

Christ, this again

[gamer7804]

Crossplay. Could be microsofts way back into leading a generation again, crossplay is the future whether Sony likes it or not. just like MS hand was forced this gen, sonny's will soon be too regarding crossplay
MS has evolved, they are for the players while Sony for the shareholders.

[Razzer]

lol.....Microsoft isn't for the shareholders? That is funny. How will Sony be forced into crossplay again?

[gamer7804]

It was a joke based on marketing slogans, obviously both are businesses operating in the free public market so answer to shareholders, since they are not private

[rainslacker]

MS is more likely to leave the console market before it becomes the future. Sony already does cross play with PC, so that's the only thing really relevant to MS for the future.

Sony isn't against cross play. They have allowed it with PC for a long time. They're allowing it with a couple upcoming Switch games. Right now, it just seems that MS is the only one not included in Sony's future, but Sony for the time being seems to have more influence on the future of gaming than MS does.

Also, I can not write enough "LOL"'s for MS being evolved and somehow more for the players, while Sony is only for the share holders. MS is completely all about the share holders. Every statement they've made about games themselves in the past 2 years has made that abundantly clear, unless you think the impact of SP games and how it's hard to justify SP games is somehow not about investors. Focus on MAU's makes it clear.

It's not that Sony isn't also for the investors, but they pretty much restructured Sony corporate's future to center around PS and a few other corner stones, by focusing in on the games which the gamers want. They are reaping the benefits. Cross-play is a footnote on people's requests lists, and while I have nothing against cross play being made available, and even would like to see it just because I think it's not bad to have, it is nowhere near as important as delivering games people want to play.

[gamer7804]

I mean against other consoles competing in the same market

[Aceman18]

M$ has never lead or won a generation, and they never will lol. They are only liked in two regions so you can kill that dream right there lol.

Sony provides me games same can't be said for old ms.

[gamer7804]

they led for the majority of the 360 lifecycle in overall sales, although a closer overall race last year between Sony and Microsoft than this year.

[WickedLester]

I'm certainly losing sleep over it, LMAO!

[Hardiman]

This again?!?! Hey water is wet!

[Ninver]

Once again. The user base is more than sufficient on the ps4. Why would Sony give their competitors a piece of that? It's all business.

[DialgaMarine]

And the PSN community is still perfectly fine without it.

[tagzskie]

Last gen ps3 is free online and 360 is paid online, even the gap is little 360 doesn't benefit that move, since new buyers likely get ps3 since it's free online. And now ps4 have lead almost 50m, a crossplay does not benefit ps4. As a business minded person you need to priority what you gain and you need to be equal term. I dont blame sony for this. Though we as a consumer are the most effected here. I still blame ms for paid online service. I see all types of fanboys but xboys are the worst still defending ms

[King_Lothric]

The majority begging for cross play are Xbox fans. Not even PS fans are asking for this. Last Gen when Microsoft decided to protect their network and rejected crossplay everyone respected it and no one begged.

How is it that now that Sony wants to protect its network Xbox fans are crying about this? Are things really that bad in the Xbox side that people are begging for this?

Respect Sony's decision as people respected Microsoft desicion last generation. Put your pants on your place.

[DefaultComment]

Sony can shove all those excuses and attitude towards the gaming community up their arses for all I care. All I'm gonna say is Karma is a bitch...sooner or later it will take it's toll.

[DarkZane]

Sure, it will take its toll when the PS5 win next gen again by outselling the next xbox by at least 2:1.

Even if the PS5 were to not allow crossplay and Xbox were to fully allow it, the PS5 would still win. Playstation is so much bigger than Xbox it's not even funny. The 360, which was Microsoft at their best, still got outsold by the PS3, which was Sony at their worst.

So yeah, even if Microsoft does everything right, they just don't stand a chance.

[DefaultComment]

Yeah you keep telling yourself ps5 will always win. Smh

[JerseyDon]

I think it needs to mandatory at this point. Obviously with PC should be a no, but between Xbox and PS4 that is a no brainier, that both parties and the consumers win that in that scenario

[wonderfulmonkeyman]

It's really sad that Sony feels this way, and it's even more sad that the fanboys [not fans; there's a difference] thinks it's too good to play with others, which is why they keep blindly backing Sony's decision here.

The only ones Sony plays nice with is PC, which is above them to begin with.
Sony stands to lose basically nothing by agreeing to crossplay. The cry-outs that it would somehow damage Sony to any significant degree are just overdramatics from Sony-only fanboys that look down on anything outside of Playstation.

Sony is not above crossplay with competing consoles.
The fanboys [not the fans; again, there's a difference] need to stop supporting the crossplay-wall-out

[Tzuno]

They want all the cash, well who could blame them, at least they invest in good quality games.

[bluefox755]

Who can blame them? Why would they want to share their massive audience with their competition? Especially when no one really seems to care all that much about the feature.

[Neonridr]

explain to me how your online experience is lessened by playing with more people bluefox755?

[Sm3000]

Simple really, sony's top dog, they can call the shots. If you want to play with your friends, buy a ps4. It's unfortunate but true

[dreue]

Lol, cross play was never a tbing back in the days, and i dont need to play with xbox players....also sony is doing what ms did laat gen.... Also when thete are no games to talk lets talk about cross play as if it is a thing.... Well if you guys want cross pkay get a pc.... Now all multplat games will sell on all consoles so avain ehat is the need of cross play? It is like back ward games it is nice but for me mhaaa, i still have ps3 with all games and never play it since i got a ps4.... So ya talk about games and that is it....

[LordJamar]

Nothing really to so with xbox. Hirez are the ones asking this also last gen almost a decade old not to mention it was a Different head of xbox back then

[Aloren]

I see no reason why any gamer would be against any kind of cross platform gaming, except blind fanboyism. It doesn't change exclusives, it doesn't change your experience, it just allows you to play with friends who happen to have a different system. I personally couldn't care less if COD playerbase is going to be 10 millions instead of 5. However, If I end up liking a game with a few hundred players, getting the playerbase back to a few thousands would be really benefical. I wanna get a chance to discuss divinity original sin with a friend and realize we can play it together cause he has it on PS4 and I have it on PC. I wanna get a chance to play fifa with my cousin even though we don't have the same systems...

There's been cross platform gaming between Iphone and android for years. Did it ruin google or apple ? no. Did it give you a chance to play scrabble with your uncle ? Maybe it did.... That's the same with other systems. I don't feel like cross platform gaming between switch pc or xbox changed anything to the game except it's really convenient when you need it. Anyone who doesn't act like he's a shareholder with obscure business interests should realize that...

[2ndhandcorn]

Server envy that is most likely why many exclusives do not have multi lol.

[SirBradders]

I dont want sony to enable cross play because if they do it won't impact sales majorly but can have some form of effect.

Let's face it the more users and consoles sony have out there, the more quality titles we get which is more important to me than some stubborn mates not willing to fork out.

[LordJamar]

God the point flew right over your head i never seen such a delusional comment

[SirBradders]

It's not delusional, it's opinion coupled with fact.

Your the delusional one for not providing any justifiable means.

[slavish0]

how many devs have to say this?

[Neonridr]

I never thought I would see the day when I see a bunch of blind fanboys preaching their false narrative that being able to play with more people is a bad thing. How does cross-play affect your PS4 experience in any way? Ever think that maybe some of these smaller devs want cross-play enabled to lengthen the shelf life of their games or to make it easier to manage online sessions? Resources and capital is finite to these people.

At least Nintendo and Xbox understand. But hey who cares right? Sony is winning this gen so they can do whatever they want and their fans will support them no matter what. It's ok to not agree with everything a company does guys. It doesn't make you any less cool.

[Silly gameAr]

You're right. We should get out the pitchforks and torches and head straight for Sony hq and pretend that we care about this more than we really do.

[Neonridr]

no, Sony gamers are perfectly fine with allowing Sony to dictate to them what's ok and what's not.

Doesn't exactly sound like For the Gamers to me..

[Nacho_Z]

At the end of the day the winner gets to dictate terms, it's just how it is in life. It's up to gamers and devs if they want to get on board with that.

[gazgriff2k12]

And im so glad there not interested why would they be?
I for one really really really dont want to play with xbot kids or pc master race

[YodaCracker]

This is the very antithesis of “For the Players”.

[TimmyTurnersDad]

It seems like the Sony fanboys on n4g and youtube are the only ones who are against crossplay. everyone I have spoken to about the subject agrees that cross-play is a good thing. this includes hardcore gamers I have spoken with at conventions, gamers from my college, and casual gamers who are on the fence about what system to buy. Yes I know MS was stupid to pass on crossplay last gen. that does not change the fact that Sony is stupid to pass on crossplay now.

[maybelovehate]

Easy to solve. Just don't buy multiplatform games on Sony devices. They aren't offering the best versions anyhow.

[Silly gameAr]

The version they offer is good enough. Lets not pretend the ps4 is a weak console so you can pretend a certain other console is more powerful then it really is.

Btw, not enough people care about this to not buy multiplatform, especially when more peple own those Sony devices.

[Nacho_Z]

As a longtime PS user I just want Sony to get stronger, which they are, and I don't give a hoot what the other consoles are up to. If I were Sony I would do the same. It's not like there's a shortage of PS players online and we could do with an influx of new blood.

[LandoCalrissiano]

Blocking cross play makes no sense. Look at Apple. The most money hungry company in the world yet even they cross play apps with everyone.