After some recent backlash from fans and game developers, Sony has announced that cross-platform play is coming to the PS4 after “a comprehensive evaluation process”. The first game to support cross platform play on the PS4 is Fortnite, with a “open beta” now available to PS4 gamers.
The beta allows PS4 games to play against those on Android, iOS, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, and Mac operating systems.
John Kodera, President and Global CEO of PlayStation, had the following to say:
Following a comprehensive evaluation process, SIE has identified a path toward supporting cross-platform features for select third party content. We recognize that PS4 players have been eagerly awaiting an update, and we appreciate the community’s continued patience as we have navigated through this issue to find a solution.
The first step will be an open beta beginning today for Fortnite 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. We see the beta as an opportunity to conduct thorough testing that ensures cross-platform play is best on PlayStation, while being mindful about the user experience from both a technical and social perspective.
For 24 years, we have strived to deliver the best gaming experience to our fans by providing a uniquely PlayStation perspective. Today, the communities around some games have evolved to the point where cross-platform experiences add significant value to players. In recognition of this, we have completed a thorough analysis of the business mechanics required to ensure that the PlayStation experience for our users remains intact today, and in the future, as we look to open up the platform.
This represents a major policy change for SIE, and we are now in the planning process across the organization to support this change. We will update the community once we have more details to share, including more specifics regarding the beta timeframe, and what this means for other titles going forward.
Assuming all goes well, you can expect other PS4 games to also support cross-playform play, including Rocket League and Minecraft.