What is cross platform gaming? It is the ability to play the same video game with other players on different devices. There are many games that are available on multiple devices such as game consoles, tablets, and PC’s. However, most of them limit your ability to play with others on different devices. This becomes a problem for gamers that want to play with their friends online. 

Since some people buy games just for the sake of playing with their friends, the lack of cross platform gaming for some of these games would make it unfavorable to purchase.

Luckily, games such as Fortnite, Ark, Rocket League, Sea of Thieves, and many more are all cross platform. Fortnite in particular became overwhelmingly popular and has exceeded many people’s expectations. This is due to the fact that it is free and supports cross platform gaming. 

But why aren’t more games cross-platform? Wouldn’t they generate more money that way? The answer is that the gaming companies would lose money due to decreased console sales. While an Xbox has few differences from a PS4, the available games and exclusivity of a server belonging to a distinct console is what you’re really buying. With games being cross platform, there would no longer be a need for these exclusive devices since the games could be played on any device. 

Additionally, some companies, such as Nintendo, have their own first-party games and consoles. Nintendo wouldn’t want to lose business by having their game too widely available. People buy their Nintendo Switch because games such as Mario Odyssey are not available on any other devices. The same principles of business apply to brands such as Apple, where a constant output of new products encourages consumers to always buy new products, since some games produced by Nintendo will not work on their outdated devices.

At the end of the day, more game companies should make a conscious effort to make their games cross platform so that they are more widely available and enjoyable. While it may be a risk, the most important concern of a company is appealing to the consumers’ needs, not losing money. After all, the customers are always right.