In 2017, Epic Games switched on the cross-platform play in Fortnite, allowing gamers on Xbox One and PlayStation 4 to play the game together. Back then, Epic Games representatives explained that “the cross-platform support was as easy as flipping a switch.” Now, the Fortnite devs are about to release a set of tools that simplifies cross-platform multiplayer.
In early 2019, Epic Games would launch its cross-platform online services toolkit for free, allowing developers “run parties, matchmaking, voice chat, and more that work across PC, Mac, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android,” as VentureBeat reported.
“Successfully launching and operating a live, online game requires a suite of services that go far beyond the functionality of a traditional game engine. These services are expensive to build, test, and harden in real-world conditions, but once operational, are relatively inexpensive to scale to more games and more users. At Epic, our goal is to help game developers succeed,” said Epic Games.
Fortnite Devs To Release A Set Of Tools That Simplifies Cross-Platform Multiplayer
Epic Games plans to launch its cross-platform SDK in the first half of 2019, most likely in the early months of the next year. Also, throughout 2019, Epic Games will release new features for the before-mentioned service. Third-party devs should expect the following:
- Cloud saves – in Q1 2019
- Login, entitlements, and social functions – in Q2 and Q3 2019
- Voice chat – in Q3 2019
- Parties and matchmaking – most probably in Q3 and Q4 2019
“As you can see from our game and engine efforts, we’re also working on further support for user-generated content, enhanced social features, anti-cheat, and more. Besides these existing account and service integrations, we’re eager to work with partners on further efforts to connect accounts, gaming services, and cloud services for a more seamless experience,” said Epic Games, Fortnite devs, in an official blog post.
