The developer behind ARK: Survival Evolved has revealed that it currently has PS4 and Xbox One cross-play working internally, but the feature is being blocked by Sony.
Studio Wildcard was quizzed on Twitter if cross-platform play was coming to the game, although made it clear that Sony is remaining as obstinate as ever in regards to its stance on the feature.
“We have it working internally, but currently Sony won’t allow it :(“ commented Jeremy Stielglitz, who serves as lead designer, lead director, and co-creative director on the project.
Sony’s decision to block cross-platform play for ARK shouldn’t come as much of a surprise. Earlier this year, the format holder made it clear that it isn’t budging on the matter, explaining that doing so would potentially compromise the safety of its users, particularly younger gamers.
However, the decision was heavily criticised by Microsoft, with the Xbox console maker describing Sony’s stance on the matter as ‘unhealthy.’Furthermore, the head of Xbox Division, Mike Ybarra, said that he issue isn’t going to disappear anytime soon.
“Our data shows people want larger multiplayer pools of people to play with and the choice to play together. This isn’t going away.”
Cross-platform play is already coming to a number of popular gaming franchises for Xbox One and Nintendo Switch owners, including Minecraft and Rocket League.