Microsoft is still talking to Sony about cross-platform multiplayer

But what about our stakeholders?

This has been a long slog for Microsoft. After the announcement of Minecraft‘s “Better Together” update at E3, Sony execs were asked about the idea of cross-platform multiplayer. Sony’s Jim Ryan tried to offer up user safety as a good reason not to, but Xbox head Phil Spencer was rightfully offended. If Nintendo’s in, that argument doesn’t hold much water. The other argument Ryan offered was that Sony’s stakeholders wouldn’t be pleased. That one is likely much more accurate and even less palatable. Sony has a huge lead over Microsoft and Nintendo in the console space, so there’s not really any good reason for them to open up their playground – everyone’s already in.

Microsoft is making some missteps lately, but its on the right course with this, and I hope Microsoft’s execs keep hammering on it and force the issue. Once Minecraft bursts the gates open, more and more games are sure to follow. And why not? It’s good for everyone involved – console makers, game developers, and gamers all benefit from this. Even Sony.

Article source: https://www.technobuffalo.com/2017/08/24/microsoft-talking-sony-cross-platform-multiplayer/