Cross Platform Gaming: Are We Getting There?
As a serious gamer, you should understand your console of choice can limit your gaming capabilities substantially. Unfortunately, if you have friends, who own an Xbox, you'll want to follow in suit and also purchase an Xbox. This is usually a requirement, because cross platform gaming from the PlayStation 4 to the Xbox One isn't always a possibility. Suffice to say, Xbox owners play with other Xbox owners, while Sony fans are left on their own. This isn't always the case though and some developers are taking rapid rectifications to bring both sides of the spectrum together. Are we getting closer to more convenient cross platform gaming or is it still far away?
The Difficulties Of Cross Platform Gaming
To someone, who knows nothing about development and software, making the transfer from one platform to another might seem straightforward and uncomplicated. This couldn't be further from the truth. In fact, there are numerous challenges associated with cross-platform development. First and foremost, attempting to properly test software across multiple platforms is much more time consuming and costly. Also, each platform is unique and utilizes native package formats. In order for software to be available on numerous platforms, it needs to be compatible with each format. Finally, there are some security flaws associated with making software friendlier with a larger number of platforms.
Microsoft's Major Step to Cross-Platform Gaming
Microsoft has worked diligently, in the past few years to create a bridge to allow gamers to consistently game across four platforms. Of course, no one seems to be taking this reinvention effort very seriously, but it just so happens that Microsoft already has both software and hardware to make this possible. Skulls of the Shogun, a strategy game is the first to be released across Windows 8, Windows Phone 8, Xbox 360, and Windows RT. If you own an electronic device with one of these operating systems, you will be able to compete with other gamers, using a variety of devices.
This opens up many doors of opportunities for those that were one forced to invest in a particular gaming console just to play an online game with their friends. This innovate cross-platform gaming arbitration has definitely helped gaming evolve to a much higher level.
Sony's Mindset
Although Microsoft is receiving the majority of the news regarding cross platform moves, Sony also has something to say about their own mindset and future. First and foremost, Sony wants to remind gamers that their PlayStation console has been cross-platform compatible with PC software, since 2002. They mention their Final Fantasy 11 title as evidence to support their claim. Recently, the group also confirmed that they're more than willing to engage in conversation with publishers and developers who are interested in cross platform play.
Of course, there is a major factor to consider. Sony's newest console, the PlayStation 4, has massively outsold its rival from Microsoft. In a sense, Sony has more to lose by opening their platform up and allowing Sony gamers to play alongside Xbox One owners.
How About The Future?
When it comes down to it, there are many who believe cross platform gaming will be readily available within the coming years. However, this seems too good to be true. The competition between Sony and Microsoft remains heated. Although both sides seem willing to cooperate, doubt still remains. Will one side be so willing to appease the other, if they're monopolizing the market? Only time will tell, but don't be surprised if the two spar over the subject for many years to come.