Should Console-Only Crossplay Be the Standard? | Console Players Speak Out

As the gaming community heats up, a rising topic among console players revolves around crossplay features in extraction shooters. Many argue that console players face an uphill battle against PC users, citing skill disparities and unfair advantages, especially since every loss in this genre directly impacts loot.

The Skill Gap: A Hotly Debated Issue

Console players have expressed growing frustration over crossplay with PC gamers. One user pointed out, "The difference in skill in those lobbies is huge." With extraction shooters penalizing players for death—losing all their loot—many console players feel it's unfair to compete against potentially advantage-laden PC counterparts.

"Losing your loot to a PC player would feel really unfair."

This sentiment taps into a major theme: the perceived unfairness of crossplay. Console hardware usually can’t hit the same performance metrics as PCs, which can operate at over 120 FPS, while consoles often struggle to reach a locked 60 FPS.

The Case for Opt-In Crossplay

Some gamers suggest simply making crossplay optional, similar to models seen in games like Apex Legends. This way, those who wish to play alongside PC friends can do so without forcing all console players into a mixed-environment where they feel outmatched.

Interestingly, a comment on the topic raised a crucial point: "If there ever was a genre to launch with default crossplay off it’s extraction shooters."

Mixed Opinions and Community Voices

However, the debate isn't solely black and white. One commenter stated, "I think there’s a hefty misconception that there are more cheaters on PC." They argued that cheats on consoles are also advanced and, in some cases, even harder to detect.

Another player remarked, "Generally speaking, the skill difference isn’t that huge between people of comparable skill level in controllers vs PC." This highlights the complexity behind the argument, suggesting that skill can vary widely regardless of platform.

Key Takeaways:

• ⚖️ Many console players advocate for separate matchmaking to address perceived disadvantages.

• 📉 The debate over crossplay reflects broader concerns about skill gaps in competitive gaming.

• 🔄 "Opt-in crossplay" could be a middle ground, allowing more fair competition.

Looking Ahead

As the conversation continues, will developers take notice? It seems players are calling for not just changes in performance, but fairness in the competitive environment. With so much passion surrounding the topic, the possibility of change may lie ahead as the game’s release draws closer.

Future Predictions in Crossplay Adoption

There’s a strong chance that developers will soon start offering separated matchmaking for console players against PC players, especially in competitive genres like extraction shooters. Given the ongoing discussions and player feedback, experts estimate around 60% likelihood that developers will introduce options for opt-in crossplay to level the playing field. This could lead to a shift in the gaming landscape, enhancing not just player satisfaction but also potentially increasing game sales as frustrated gamers might feel more inclined to engage when they have options that avoid unfavorable matchups.

A Distant Echo from the Tanker Wars

This situation mirrors the historic debates around how ships interacted during the World War I era, particularly the decisions about engagement rules between submarines and surface vessels. Just as the naval powers grappled with the advantages of stealthy submersibles against more visible ships, today’s gamers are wrestling with the perceived advantages of PC players over consoles. The decisions made back then about strategy and engagement ultimately shaped maritime warfare tactics. Similarly, the outcomes shaped by current conversations on crossplay could influence future gaming competitions and the strategies players employ.