Cross-platform play between game platforms is undeniably fun. Sure, there are still games that are restricted to each platform, but for games like Fortnite, it’s been a benefit, and not just in monetary value. Xbox head Phil Spencer has been a proponent of the feature for a long time, but despite his support, there’s been one big stumbling block: Sony.
Sony hasn’t exactly been keen on giving up the potential revenue from console exclusivity for a while now. But that appears to be changing. Today, Sony announced on PlayStation Blog that the company has “identified a path toward supporting cross-platform features for select third party content.” That third party content is indeed Fortnite, which begins an open beta today “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.”
Now, I know what you’re saying. “What the hell does that mean when I can’t even play Friday The 13th: The Game with my Xbox or PC buddies?” Baby steps, as they say. Sure, we might not be able to play F13 across different consoles, but what’s to say that Devil May Cry 5 couldn’t have the option in the future? Or Monster Hunter World? And yes, not all of the games will be purely horror-centric (Fortnite isn’t), but imagine the possibilities if this open beta finally gives Sony a kick in the butt?