Nowadays, cross-platform play is a common feature that many online games have. But what does "cross-platform play" mean, exactly?

Sure, the more features we have, the better, but it's good to know what this term means and how important is it to have it. Here's everything you need to know about what cross-platform play is.

What's Cross-Platform Play in Gaming?

Person Playing Fortnite

Before we dive into cross-platform play, it's better first to explain what cross-platform and cross-play mean.

Cross-platform is pretty self-explanatory. To put it simply, when a game, app, or software is cross-platform, it means that it's supported across many different platforms without any extra preparation from users. That's why you can download Fortnite on your Android device and your computer and play pretty much instantly.

Cross-play refers to any online multiplayer game that lets you play with anyone, no matter which console or device they're using. Meaning that your buddies can rock an Xbox Series X, and you can have a PS5, and you'll still be able to play online with each other.

Based on these two terms, cross-platform play is pretty easy to understand. This term refers to a game that's available across many different platforms and whose multiplayer mode you can play with any online user, no matter which device or console they're using. Simple, right?

Nowadays, many people may refer to cross-platform play games as just cross-platform or cross-play games. However, most games that have one feature usually have the other. So next time you hear either description, chances are the game is both cross-platform and cross-play.

Related: How to Set Up a Wi-Fi Network to Play LAN Games

How Does It Really Work?

It's pretty simple, actually. Since cross-platform play games need an online connection to work, your progress and in-game profile exist in the cloud. All your progress, achievements, and weird in-game skins link to a specific ID.

Of course, this comes with a "downside," which is that you'll need to be online at all times so that the device you're using can synchronize with the game's servers in order to save your progress. Fortunately, in today's day and age, you can even connect your console to your hotel Wi-Fi, and you're good to go.

Related: How to Connect Your PS4 to Hotel Wi-Fi

Going back to our Fortnite example, you need to log in with your specific email to keep playing on the same account. On the back end, the game needs your ID to retrieve your data from the server and show it to you. Likewise, the game will use this ID to connect you with other players regardless of the device they're using.

Some Examples of Cross-Platform Play Games

Rocket League on Nintendo Switch

There's a massive number of cross-platform play games out there. Thanks to the popularity of multiplayer and battle royale games, companies and developers have tried to make their games cross-platform as cross-play, so more users can play; a win for us.

With that said, here are some examples of popular cross-platform play games.

  1. Fortnite
  2. Dead By Deadlight
  3. Rocker League
  4. Minecraft
  5. Sea of Thieves
  6. Hearthstone
  7. Call of Durty: Warzone
  8. Paladins
  9. Mortal Kombat 11
  10. Destiny 2
  11. Roblox
  12. Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Links
  13. Ark: Survival Evolved
  14. PUBG
  15. Among Us

And many more! As a general rule, most modern multiplayer games tend to be cross-platform play, albeit there are exceptions as well, which brings us to our next question.

Related: How to Play Minecraft With Friends: 5 Different Ways

How Do I Know if It's a Cross-Platform Play Game?

Platforms where Fortnite Is Available
Image Credit: Epic Games

More often than not, game developers and companies will tell you when it's a cross-platform play game, although they might not say it like that. Most games will tell you that they're available on many platforms, including consoles, PCs, and mobile devices. They'll often tell you that you can play with other players using different consoles and platforms, as well.

Play From Anywhere, With Anyone

Cross-platform play is pretty standard nowadays, and it's a great win for gamers worldwide.

There was a time when you had to buy a specific console to play the most popular games. These days you can do it from basically anywhere, although there are still a few exceptions. Now it's your turn to enjoy some awesome cross-platform play games with your friends. You can start right now with your phone.