However, cross-platform play is the same as crossplay, as it means you can play with others across platforms. A game might be released with Xbox, PlayStation and Switch versions, making it cross-platform, but it won't necessarily include the crossplay support that allows players on these different platforms to play online together. It just means that a game is available on multiple platforms. So, for example, even though you’re on Xbox and your friend is on PlayStation, you can still play together on Fortnite.Ī cross-platform release is slightly different. The difference between crossplay and cross-platform games is, mainly, that a game that supports crossplay is one in which players on different platforms can play together via online multiplayer. Crossplay and cross-platform are two that can be easily confused. We know, there are a lot of terms with the word “cross”-something in gaming these days. (Image credit: Blizzard) What’s the difference between crossplay games and cross-platform games? It's a very multi-dimensional kind of attribute or feature" (via Eurogamer).Įven as itechnical barriers fall platform manufacturers can also be hesitant to allow cross-platform play, given they want to give players reasons to purchase their specific platform above others. Shawn Layden, former chairman of PlayStation Worldwide Studios, has also said that "enabling crossplay isn't just about flipping a switch and 'there you go'. Prior to crossplay becoming available for Overwatch developer Wes Yanagi commented that "implementing crossplay is more difficult than people realize" (via GameSpot). However, crossplay between Playstation consoles and Xbox consoles is becoming more common, and games that are part of Microsoft's Play Anywhere initiative automatically allow crossplay between Xbox and PC. There is a development cost to including crossplay and it's also not easy to implement for already available games, hence why you don't see it across the board. (Image credit: Epic Games) Why aren't all games crossplay?