Which Games Are Cross-Platform? The Definitive Guide
Discover which games are cross-platform and enable seamless multiplayer experiences across different consoles and PCs. This guide provides a comprehensive list of titles, benefits, and key considerations when determining which games are cross-platform.
What is Cross-Platform Play?
Cross-platform play, also known as crossplay, allows players using different gaming platforms, such as PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PC, to play the same game together online. This breaks down the traditional barriers between ecosystems, expanding the player base and fostering a more inclusive gaming environment. It’s a feature that’s become increasingly popular, and naturally, gamers want to know which games are cross-platform.
The Benefits of Cross-Platform Gaming
Cross-platform gaming offers several significant advantages:
- Larger Player Base: Players are no longer restricted to playing only with others on the same platform, leading to shorter wait times for matches and more diverse competition.
- Unified Communities: Crossplay helps create stronger and more unified gaming communities, as friends and family members using different consoles can play together.
- Extended Game Lifespan: By broadening the pool of available players, cross-platform play can help sustain the popularity and longevity of a game.
- Increased Accessibility: Gamers aren’t forced to buy specific consoles simply to play with friends who own that system, increasing overall accessibility.
- Enhanced Competitive Landscape: More players naturally mean a larger talent pool to find opponents to play against.
Determining Which Games Support Crossplay
Figuring out which games are cross-platform can sometimes be tricky. Here’s a breakdown of the factors to consider:
- Game Developer Announcement: The most reliable source is the game developer themselves. They usually announce crossplay support via press releases, social media, or on the game’s official website.
- Game Store Listings: Check the game’s description on digital storefronts like Steam, PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store, and Nintendo eShop. Crossplay compatibility is often explicitly mentioned.
- In-Game Settings: Some games have crossplay options within their settings menu. This allows you to enable or disable the feature, depending on your preference.
- Online Gaming Communities: Online forums, gaming websites, and social media groups dedicated to specific games often have threads or wikis detailing crossplay compatibility.
- General Gaming Websites and Databases: Many websites regularly update lists of cross-platform games. Be aware that such lists may not be completely up to date, so double-check the information when possible.
Popular Cross-Platform Games
Here’s a table showcasing some popular cross-platform games as of late 2024. This list is not exhaustive, and crossplay support can change over time, so always verify information before purchase.
| Game Title | Platforms with Crossplay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fortnite | PC, PS, Xbox, Switch, Mobile | One of the earliest and most prominent examples. |
| Call of Duty: Warzone | PC, PS, Xbox | Progression and purchases are also cross-platform. |
| Rocket League | PC, PS, Xbox, Switch | Free-to-play with cross-platform progression. |
| Minecraft | PC, PS, Xbox, Switch, Mobile | “Bedrock Edition” only. |
| Apex Legends | PC, PS, Xbox, Switch | Allows console players to opt out of playing against PC players. |
| Genshin Impact | PC, PS, Mobile | Limited cross-save features. |
| Dead by Daylight | PC, PS, Xbox, Switch, Mobile | Not all DLC is cross-compatible. |
| Destiny 2 | PC, PS, Xbox | Cross-save feature available. |
| Sea of Thieves | PC, Xbox | Xbox Play Anywhere title. |
| Among Us | PC, Switch, Mobile | A social deduction game with a simple but addictive gameplay loop. |
| Fall Guys | PC, PS, Xbox, Switch | Cross-platform progression. |
| Overwatch 2 | PC, PS, Xbox, Switch |
Common Mistakes and Pitfalls
- Assuming Crossplay is Always Available: Not all games have crossplay, and even if they do, it might be limited to specific platforms.
- Ignoring Version Compatibility: Even if a game supports crossplay, ensure that all players are using compatible versions. Updates can sometimes break crossplay functionality.
- Overlooking Account Linking Requirements: Some games require you to link your accounts across different platforms to enable crossplay features.
- Disregarding Input Method Advantages: PC players with mouse and keyboard setups may have an advantage over console players using controllers in some games.
- Assuming Cross-Progression: Crossplay is separate from cross-progression (saving progress on one platform and using that save on another). Some games have both, but others may only have one or the other.
The Future of Cross-Platform Gaming
Cross-platform play is likely to become even more prevalent in the future, as developers recognize its benefits and gamers demand it. Advancements in technology are making crossplay implementation easier, and pressure from players will likely push more studios to adopt this increasingly essential feature. Determining which games are cross-platform will become easier as it becomes a standard expectation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is cross-platform play always a good thing?
While generally positive, cross-platform play isn’t always perfect. Balance issues can arise if players on different platforms have inherent advantages (e.g., PC players with keyboard and mouse vs. console players with controllers). Some players may prefer to play exclusively with others on the same platform for a more consistent experience. It’s a welcome option, but not a universal necessity for all titles.
How can I find out if a specific game is cross-platform?
The best way to find out if a specific game supports cross-platform play is to check the official game website, the game’s listing on digital storefronts (like Steam, PlayStation Store, Xbox Marketplace, and Nintendo eShop), or the developer’s social media channels. These sources are generally the most reliable and up-to-date.
What is the difference between crossplay and cross-progression?
Crossplay allows players on different platforms to play together. Cross-progression, on the other hand, allows players to use their game progress (character unlocks, achievements, etc.) across different platforms. They are distinct features and a game can have one without the other.
Are there any drawbacks to playing with players on different platforms?
One potential drawback is the potential for input method disparities, as mentioned earlier. PC players using mouse and keyboard might have an advantage in shooters, for example. Some players may also experience latency or connection issues when playing with others on different platforms due to varying network infrastructures.
Can I turn off crossplay if I don’t want to play with players on other platforms?
Many games with crossplay offer an option to disable the feature in the settings menu. This allows you to play only with others on the same platform, if you prefer. However, disabling crossplay may also increase your matchmaking times.
Will all future games support cross-platform play?
While crossplay is becoming increasingly popular, it’s unlikely that all future games will support it. The decision to implement crossplay depends on various factors, including the game’s design, technical limitations, developer resources, and platform holder policies.
Does crossplay affect game balance?
Potentially, yes. As noted above, input method differences can impact balance, requiring developers to carefully adjust game mechanics and matchmaking to ensure fair play. Good development studios will monitor and balance for this, releasing frequent updates to the game to address any imbalance.
Is crossplay the same as cross-save?
No. Cross-save allows progress made on one platform to be continued on another platform. Crossplay is simply the capability to play with people on different platforms simultaneously. Some games may have one, both, or neither of these features.
Does crossplay always include all platforms?
Not necessarily. Some games might only support crossplay between specific platforms (e.g., PC and Xbox). It’s important to check which platforms are supported before assuming full cross-platform compatibility.
How does crossplay work technically?
Technically, crossplay requires developers to create a unified backend infrastructure that allows players on different platforms to connect and interact with each other seamlessly. This involves handling different operating systems, network protocols, and authentication systems.
Are there any security concerns related to crossplay?
There can be security concerns, such as the potential for cheating or hacking from players on more open platforms like PC to affect console players. Developers must implement robust anti-cheat measures to mitigate these risks.
Why don’t all games have cross-platform compatibility?
Implementing cross-platform compatibility is technically challenging, resource-intensive, and sometimes subject to platform holder restrictions. Some developers may choose not to implement it due to these factors, especially for smaller or older games.