Crossplatform for PC
Crossplatform for PC
Frequently with my friends, we try a game we all know, but we realize it's available on various platforms. I have it on Xbox Game Pass, someone has it on Steam, and another on Epic Games. When the game doesn't have a lobby browser, we often can't join together because the invitation process blocks us—clicking the invite button triggers a window that either shows Steam or Xbox, preventing us from playing at the same time.
Unfortunately, the game needs built-in cross-platform play, meaning its own dedicated multiplayer system. Depending on the title, some mods might rely on community servers or similar setups, but this is usually PC-specific and could help connect Steam and Epic, not XBL or PSN. The positive side is growing interest from developers to release titles that work across platforms. More games now support this than a decade ago, though the landscape remains inconsistent.
It will depend on the developer to unify all the various platforms. For example, Bungie introduced Cross-Save and Cross-Play in Destiny 2, making it potentially the most successful option. Currently, players can join on Steam, PSN, Xbox Live/Game Pass, and Stadia with matching matchmaking. However, purchases remain separate since each platform charges its own commission.
The second option works across platforms, while the first is limited to PC and Xbox only.
Absolutely, you're right. We're all using PCs, so the focus is mainly on PC and Xbox apps. The Steam cross-platform feature is a good one, but I feel it might miss some options.
From a brief online lookup, it seems the creators of Astroneer have decided against crossplay between Steam and the Windows Store currently.