In a surprise reversal
from past statements, Sony announced today that cross-platform play for
Fortnite will finally be supported on PlayStation 4. An open beta for the new functionality begins today, allowing
Fortnite cross-platform gameplay, progression, and commerce across PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC, Android, and iOS.
"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," Sony President and Global CEO John Kodera said.
Cross-platform play arrives today as a beta, giving Sony a chance to conduct "thorough testing" while gauging the user experience "from both a technical and social perspective." Obviously, this is fantastic news for PlayStation gamers who have long-clamored for cross-platform play on the PS4. Frustration over Sony's archaic mindset mounted over the past few months, with
Fortnite serving as the major catalyst for gamer-demanded change.
Sony continued:
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.
It sounds like
Fortnite is just the beginning for cross-platform play on PlayStation 4. Hopefully, this signals Sony finally lowering its gates so that all gamers can play freely with one another regardless of 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.
Specific details regarding
Fortnite cross-play - and eventually other third-party games - will be shared soon.