Since its release, Elden Ring has captured the hearts of gamers worldwide with its vast open-world environment, intricate lore, and thrilling combat system. Developed by FromSoftware, known for their iconic Dark Souls series, this action role-playing game has quickly become one of the most talked-about titles in gaming history. However, one of the key questions many gamers have is, “Is Elden Ring cross platform?”
In this article, we will explore whether Elden Ring supports cross platform play, how the game’s multiplayer system works, and what players can expect from future updates regarding cross-play. Let’s dive into the world of Elden Ring to answer all your questions.
What is Cross Platform Play?
Before we delve into Elden Ring’s cross platform compatibility, it’s important to understand what cross platform play entails. Cross platform play allows gamers on different gaming systems—such as PlayStation, Xbox, and PC—to play together online. For instance, if you own a game on a PlayStation console and your friend plays on Xbox, cross platform play would allow you to connect and enjoy multiplayer gaming.
Cross platform gaming has gained immense popularity over the years, with games like Fortnite, Call of Duty: Warzone, and Rocket League leading the charge. It breaks down barriers between players, making it easier to connect with friends and enjoy a game regardless of the hardware they own.
Is Elden Ring Cross Platform?
Now, let’s address the key question: Is Elden Ring cross platform?
As of now, Elden Ring does not support cross platform play. While FromSoftware has made multiplayer a central feature of the game, allowing players to summon others for co-op gameplay or invade other players’ worlds in PvP mode, these online interactions are limited to the same platform.
In other words, if you’re playing on a PlayStation console, you can only interact with other PlayStation players. The same goes for Xbox and PC—players can only team up or battle with others on the same gaming platform.
Why is Elden Ring Not Cross Platform?
There are several reasons why Elden Ring might not support cross platform play at the moment:
Technical Challenges: Implementing cross platform functionality is a complex process that requires synchronization across different gaming infrastructures. Each platform (PlayStation, Xbox, and PC) has unique architecture, servers, and security protocols, making it challenging to ensure seamless communication between them. Balancing gameplay mechanics across these systems can also pose difficulties, especially in a game like Elden Ring, where precision combat and latency are critical factors.
FromSoftware’s History: Historically, FromSoftware has not implemented cross-play in its previous titles, such as Dark Souls, Bloodborne, or Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice. While the developer has made significant strides in multiplayer mechanics, cross platform support has yet to be a focus. Elden Ring follows the same trend, sticking to platform-specific multiplayer functionality.
Security and Fair Play Concerns: With games that feature competitive elements like PvP (player versus player) combat, cross platform gaming raises concerns about fairness and security. For example, PC players may have access to mods or cheats, which could give them an unfair advantage over console players. Maintaining a level playing field and ensuring a secure gaming environment can be more difficult when different platforms are involved.
Platform Restrictions: Certain platform holders like Sony have historically been more restrictive about allowing cross platform play. While this has changed in recent years, with PlayStation supporting cross-play in select titles, it could still contribute to why Elden Ring doesn’t have cross platform capabilities.
How Does Multiplayer Work in Elden Ring?
Even though Elden Ring is not cross platform, it does feature a robust multiplayer system that allows players to experience the game cooperatively or competitively. Here’s a breakdown of how multiplayer works in Elden Ring:
Cooperative Play: Players can summon others to their world to assist with difficult bosses, explore dungeons, or tackle challenging enemies. This is done using an in-game item known as the Furlcalling Finger Remedy, which reveals summon signs left by other players. You can bring another player into your game by interacting with a summon sign to help you progress.
Player vs. Player (PvP): PvP combat is another core component of Elden Ring’s multiplayer system. Players can invade each other’s worlds using items like the Bloody Finger, challenging one another to duels. These invasions add an extra layer of excitement and tension to the game, as you never know when another player might appear to try and defeat you.
Messages and Ghosts: Like the Dark Souls series, Elden Ring includes a unique messaging system where players can leave notes for others in the game world. These messages can provide helpful hints and warnings about upcoming dangers or even trick players into making mistakes. Additionally, you can see the “ghosts” of other players and brief glimpses of what they are doing in their world, which adds to the sense of a shared universe.
Passwords and Group Play: For players who want to ensure they are matched with friends, Elden Ring allows the use of a password system. By setting a multiplayer password, you can ensure that only those with the same password can join your game. This makes it easier to connect with friends for co-op or PvP play.
Will Elden Ring Be Cross Platform in the Future?
While Elden Ring does not currently support cross platform play, there is always the possibility that this could change in the future. Game developers often listen to feedback from the community, and cross-play is one of the most requested features in modern multiplayer games.
Given the success of games implementing cross platform play and its growing demand, FromSoftware could introduce this feature in a future update or expansion. However, an official announcement from FromSoftware or Bandai Namco regarding plans for cross platform support in Elden Ring has yet to be made.
What are the Benefits of Cross Platform Play?
If Elden Ring were to introduce cross platform play, it would bring several benefits to the player base:
Larger Player Pool: Cross platform play allows players to connect with a much larger pool of gamers, reducing wait times for matchmaking and increasing the likelihood of finding someone to play with or against. This is particularly beneficial in PvP modes, where finding opponents quickly is key to maintaining engagement.
Play with Friends: One of the most significant advantages of cross platform play is the ability to play with friends regardless of the platform they own. With cross-play, console and PC players could come together, making it easier to enjoy co-op and PvP with a wider group of people.
Extended Game Life: Cross platform support can help extend a game’s life by keeping its player base healthy across different platforms. As the game ages, having a unified player base ensures that multiplayer modes remain active and vibrant.
Improved Game Accessibility: Some players may only have access to specific gaming systems, and cross platform functionality allows them to participate in the same experiences as their friends without purchasing additional hardware.
FAQs
Is Elden Ring cross platform between PlayStation and Xbox?
No, Elden Ring does not support cross platform play between PlayStation and Xbox.
Can PC players play with console players in Elden Ring?
No, Elden Ring does not support cross platform play between PC and consoles.
Will Elden Ring get cross platform play in a future update?
FromSoftware or Bandai Namco have not officially announced plans for cross platform support, but it remains a possibility.
How can I play Elden Ring with friends?
You can play Elden Ring with friends using the game’s password system, ensuring you are matched together for co-op or PvP.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Elden Ring offers an incredible multiplayer experience, it does not currently support cross platform play. Players are restricted from interacting with others on the same gaming platform, whether PlayStation, Xbox, or PC. While this may be disappointing to some, Elden Ring’s multiplayer system is still robust, offering plenty of ways to engage with other players, whether through co-op, PvP, or its unique messaging system.
As cross platform gaming grows, there is always hope that FromSoftware might introduce cross-play. Until then, players must rely on their respective platform communities for their multiplayer adventures in the Lands Between.
For now, if you plan to play Elden Ring with friends, coordinate your platform to ensure you can explore the game’s captivating world together.
