Sony ‘Confident’ a Solution Will be Reached Regarding PS4 Cross-Play Backlash
Sony has commented once again on the potential for ‘cross-play’ between the PlayStation 4 and other major consoles.
Following the release of Fortnite: Battle Royale on the Nintendo Switch in mid-June, a whirlwind of controversy was unleashed after it was discovered that users with prior experience playing the game on the PS4 were blocked from playing on the Switch, and would need to create new accounts.
This was due to Sony blocking ab option for cross-play between the PS4 and other consoles, which was previously documented for a variety of titles in the past, and was met with harsh criticism from fans.
During the Gamelab conference in Spain, Shawn Layden, CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment America, was asked about the recent cross-play controversy with Fortnite by Eurogamer reporter Robert Purchase, and if there were any plans to change their stance in the future.
“I thought it was fascinating you talking about PlayStation 3 flying too close to the sun – your Icarus moment you called it, and then PlayStation 4 coming back to be more back to basics, to be more about the players. But there seems to be an issue at the moment, that Sony isn’t listening to its players – or doesn’t seem to be – and that’s cross-play, Fortnite particularly. And I wondered if there were any plans to open it up? It seems to be Sony’s not listening.”
Layden responded by stating that he is ‘confident’ a solution will come to fruition which will be accepted by the community, along with supporting Sony’s business.
“We’re hearing it. We’re looking at a lot of the possibilities. You can imagine that the circumstances around that affect a lot more than just one game. I’m confident we’ll get to a solution which will be understood and accepted by our gaming community, while at the same time supporting our business.”
Sony has only released one announcement regarding the cross-play shakeup prior to the Gamelab conference, however, many community members were not pleased with the statement.
“We’re always open to hearing what the PlayStation community is interested in to enhance their gaming experience. Fortnite is already a huge hit with PS4 fans, offering a true free-to-play experience so gamers can jump in and play online,”
As of writing, it is unknown if a true cross-play model will be introduced for the PS4 in the future by Sony.
Source: Eurogamer