Sony has kept the PlayStation Network closed off from other consoles’ online platforms for a long time, even when Microsoft opened cross-console play on Xbox Live almost 3 years ago, but it’s finally opening up the gates.
Smash hit Fortnite is now open to cross-platform gameplay on the PS4 starting on the 26th of September, 2018. According to a report by Ars Technica on the subject, this development will allow for “cross-platform gameplay, progression, and commerce” on the Nintendo Switch and Xbox One, with support for the Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac platforms already being in place.
The “open beta” for this cross-platform gameplay will only apply to Fornite for now, but Sony is looking to adapt this to other titles in the future.
In its official announcement on Wednesday, Sony said: “For 24 years, we have strived to deliver the best gaming experience to our fans by providing a uniquely PlayStation perspective. Today, the communities around some games have evolved to the point where cross-platform experiences add significant value to players. In recognition of this, we have completed a thorough analysis of the business mechanics required to ensure that the PlayStation experience for our users remains intact today, and in the future, as we look to open up the platform.”
These developments bring about the need for major policy change at Sony, but the company is in the process of supporting this change across the organization.
By Daniëlle Kruger
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