A Glimmer of Hope for Crossplay
For years, the question of crossplay has hung over ESO like a Daedric prince looming over Nirn. But now, ZeniMax is actively working on it! Firor revealed that they're making "underlying tech changes" that could pave the way for crossplay in the future.
Why Has Crossplay Been Such a Challenge?
ESO wasn't initially designed with crossplay in mind. As Lambert put it, the game started development way back in 2007, when the idea of multiple platforms playing together wasn't even on the radar. This means:
- Outdated Technology: The game's original architecture wasn't built to handle the complexities of cross-platform interaction.
- Coordination with Platform Holders: Getting all the "first parties" (PlayStation, Xbox, etc.) on board requires navigating a complex web of agreements and technical handshakes.
Lambert previously described the challenges as a "holy hell," emphasizing the deep-seated technical hurdles.
The Shifting Landscape: A More Crossplay-Friendly Future
Despite the challenges, the tide is turning. Firor suggests that a change in philosophy "from the top" makes agreements easier. This implies growing support for crossplay among platform holders.
What's Needed to Make Crossplay a Reality?
Firor emphasized the need for backend tech changes to facilitate cross-platform play. Lambert calls it a "huge technical challenge." In other words, it involves overcoming complex technical hurdles, including:
- Data synchronization: Ensuring that game data is seamlessly transferred between different platforms.
- Authentication and Security: Implementing robust security measures to prevent cheating and protect player data across platforms.
- Balancing Platform Differences: Addressing any performance or control scheme discrepancies between platforms to ensure a fair and enjoyable experience for all players.
Beyond Technology: The Politics of Play
It's not just about coding and servers. Lambert also noted the need to get all platform holders to greenlight the whole crossplay implementation. It involves navigating complex business relationships and ensuring that everyone is on the same page.
Seasons of Change: A New Era for ESO
ESO is entering a new era with its shift to a seasonal model, kicking off with "Seasons of the Worm Cult." This update includes the highly anticipated multiclassing feature, allowing players to blend skills and abilities from multiple classes. This new approach signals a commitment to evolving the game.
The Future of ESO: Together at Last?
Crossplay isn't a guarantee, but ZeniMax's commitment to exploring it is a positive sign. If they succeed in overcoming the technical and political barriers, it would open up a whole new world of possibilities for ESO players.
While there's no official release date for crossplay, the gears are turning. Stay tuned for future updates as ZeniMax continues its journey toward a potentially more connected Elder Scrolls Online experience.
What do you think? Are you excited about the prospect of crossplay in ESO? How do you think crossplay would impact the ESO community?
