Gamers today have a growing demand for cross-platform gaming, wanting to access their favorite titles across different devices. Industry experts highlight the challenges and benefits of developing a smooth and engaging cross-platform gaming experience.
Embracing Cross-Platform Gaming
Kabam, a game development company, sees cross-platform gaming as a game-changer. They believe it’s not just about giving players the freedom to choose their platform, but about creating a seamless experience that transcends devices. Their upcoming title, King Arthur: Legends Rise, is their first cross-platform game, and although it has been challenging, they see it as a great achievement.
Overcoming Challenges
One of the key challenges in cross-platform development is providing a consistent and engaging experience across all platforms. It’s like translating a novel into different languages while keeping the essence of the story intact. Unreal Engine 5 has made it easier for Kabam to develop simultaneously on mobile and PC.
Collaboration with technology platform partners is crucial in navigating this terrain. Understanding that different platforms cater to different play styles, finding a balance between their needs has been an interesting puzzle to solve. Striking a balance between graphical fidelity and user experience is also essential to ensure each version of the game is tailored for its platform.
The Future of Cross-Platform Gaming
Cross-platform gaming is seen as an essential consideration for the business. It’s not just about reaching more players, but about building a united community. By alienating potential players, game developers miss out on an audience that could enjoy the experiences they create. The opportunities of cross-platform gaming include streaming, where content creators can share games with their viewers, and the ability to provide games anywhere people can play.
Considering Target Audience and Platforms
Considering the target audience and where they can be found is crucial before going cross-platform. Not all games resonate equally across different platforms. Designers need to understand that PC/console players may have different preferences than mobile players. Redesigning UI/UX for mobile devices may be necessary, along with transforming game mechanics to fit a free-to-play (F2P) model if applicable.
The Importance of Delivering a Great Experience
Cross-platform experiences are vital for the video game industry, as players appreciate options. Developers should aim to deliver a great experience across platforms and meet market expectations at launch. Maintaining player progression is also crucial. When games like The Eminence in Shadow: Master of Garden offered cross-play and progression, significant numbers of players embraced the feature.
Expanding Audience Reach
Cross-platform gaming enhances player experience and expands audience reach for developers. For free-to-play and multiplayer games, players expect to play with friends across platforms and switch seamlessly. Developers need to consider cross-platform support early on in the development process, ensuring that all aspects, including payment processing, login systems, leaderboards, and achievements, work seamlessly across platforms.
While there are challenges in developing cross-platform games, the benefits of reaching a wider audience and creating immersive playing experiences outweigh the costs. As the video game industry embraces cross-platform gaming, players can enjoy their favorite games regardless of the device they choose.