After a successful launch on Nintendo Switch, Fortnite became even more popular amongst gamers of all ages. As soon as the Switch version of Fortnite was announced at E3, the video game developed by Epic Games has been downloaded over 2 million times; setting a new record.
Fortnite’s success on Switch also received an immediate boost from Microsoft, thanks to the cross-play feature.
The celebration continued throughout the year, with Xbox and Switch players enjoying Fortnite together.
Unfortunately, Sony “did not accept” the invitation to the party; blocking Fortnite players from using their Epic accounts on other platforms. Especially Nintendo Switch.
The issue escalated quickly after John Smedley (former boss of Daybreak Game Company) tweeted about the real reason for which Sony is blocking the cross-play function on PlayStation 4.
PlayStation 4 players got even angrier when Microsoft and Nintendo announced Minecraft Better Together; confirming that the cross-play feature is a must these days.
Sony’s CEO Shawn Layden announced in June that the company is aware of the problems caused by blocking PlayStation 4 Fortnite accounts. He did not make any promises, but he confirmed that Sony is looking into it.
This week; however, Sony decided that it’s time to make a move, which we believe to be in the correct direction.
Sony Unlocks PS4 Fortnite Cross-Play Features
John Kodera, SIE’s CEO announced that starting September 26, 2018, Sony is launching an extended Fortnite cross-play beta. At the end of the beta, Fortnite on PlayStation 4 will receive full cross-play support.
What does this mean for you? It means that if you play Fortnite on PlayStation 4; you will be able to join your friends who use other platforms. The list includes Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC, Mac, Android, and iOS.
Now, let’s take a closer look at Kodera’s statement:
“Following a comprehensive evaluation process, SIE has identified a path toward supporting cross-platform features for select third-party content. We recognize that PS4 players have been eagerly awaiting an update, and we appreciate the community’s continued patience as we have navigated through this issue to find a solution. “
As you can see, Kodera outlines that the cross-play feature will be available for select third-party content; which means that not all multiplayer video games will actually have this feature enabled.
Fortnite is the first to support it, as confirmed by Sony’s CEO; and hopefully, more titles will follow.
“The first step will be an open beta beginning today for Fortnite that will allow for cross-platform gameplay, progression, and commerce across PlayStation 4, Android, iOS, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, and Mac operating systems. We see the beta as an opportunity to conduct thorough testing that ensures cross-platform play is best on PlayStation while being mindful about the user experience from both a technical and social perspective.”
Sony’s announcement is definitely not a small step, and what matters most is that the company actually paid attention to its community. It took a while, but it’s better late than never.
