Can Old Gen Xbox Play With New Gen FIFA 23? Understanding Cross-Play Dynamics
The burning question for many FIFA 23 players, especially those with friends on different console generations, is whether old-gen Xbox (Xbox One) can play with new-gen Xbox (Xbox Series X|S). The answer is a bit nuanced but, in short, yes, they can play together, but not directly. Let’s delve into the specifics of how cross-play works in FIFA 23.
How Cross-Play Actually Works
FIFA 23 introduced cross-play to the franchise, a feature long desired by the community. However, it’s not a simple free-for-all across all platforms. Instead, EA implemented a generational cross-play system. This means players are grouped by their console generation rather than being able to match with anyone regardless of their console.
- New Generation: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Stadia players can all play together.
- Old Generation: PlayStation 4 and Xbox One players are grouped together and can play with each other.
Therefore, to answer the primary question, an Xbox One user cannot directly match with someone using an Xbox Series X|S within the same game. However, there is a work around.
The “Xbox One Version” Loophole
While a direct match isn’t possible, there’s a critical exception: An Xbox Series X|S player can download and play the Xbox One version of FIFA 23. This is where cross-generational play becomes possible.
If an Xbox Series X
| S user is playing the Xbox One version of the game, they can then match up with Xbox One users. This is because the game determines who you can play with based on the version of the game you’re using, not the console you’re on. Essentially, the Xbox Series X |
|---|
Why this System?
This generational divide in cross-play comes down to the fundamental differences in the game builds. The new-gen versions of FIFA 23 use more advanced technology and game mechanics that are not present in the old-gen versions. To ensure that gameplay is fair and consistent across cross-play matches, EA has limited interactions to within the same generation groups.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about FIFA 23 Cross-Play
Let’s break down some of the most frequently asked questions regarding FIFA 23 cross-play and its limitations.
General Cross-Play Questions
1. Is FIFA 23 the first game in the series with cross-play?
Yes, FIFA 23 was the first title in the franchise to offer cross-play capabilities. This was a significant step forward for the series.
2. Which platforms are included in the new-gen cross-play group?
The new-gen cross-play group consists of PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Stadia (though Stadia service was discontinued in January 2023).
3. Which platforms are included in the old-gen cross-play group?
The old-gen cross-play group includes PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.
4. Is cross-play available for all game modes in FIFA 23?
No, not all modes support cross-play. Pro Clubs and Co-op are not cross-play enabled. These are often the most frequently requested modes for cross-play support.
5. How do I turn cross-play on or off in FIFA 23?
To manage cross-play, you need to go to the Customize tab, then Online Settings, and then Matchmaking Options. Here, you can toggle cross-play on or off. Make sure to enable it if you wish to play with others on different platforms.
6. Can Xbox One players play against PC players?
No. Crossplay is only available within the same generation. PC is included with PS5 and Xbox Series S|X, so Xbox one and PC cannot play together.
7. Can PS4 players play against PC players?
No. Crossplay is only available within the same generation. PC is included with PS5 and Xbox Series S|X, so PS4 and PC cannot play together.
Cross-Gen and Version-Specific Questions
8. Can I switch between the old-gen and new-gen versions of FIFA 23?
Yes, if you own both versions. You can usually switch via the platform’s store. If you want to play with a different generation, make sure to download that version. For instance, you would need to download the PS4 version on a PS5 to play with PS4 users.
9. What are the major differences between the new-gen and old-gen versions of FIFA 23?
New-gen versions offer enhanced graphics, hypermotion technology, and other gameplay improvements that are absent in the old-gen versions. Gameplay is vastly different and preferred by many over the new gen version.
10. If I have FIFA 23 on Xbox One, do I have to buy it again for Xbox Series X|S?
If you are playing on the new console you need to download the version for that console. The cross-gen bundles included the same game for two different Xbox generations. These would be the Xbox one version and the Xbox series version. If you plan to play the game on both systems for any reason then the cross-gen bundle is usually cheaper than buying the game separately.
11. Can I play my Xbox One version of FIFA 23 on my Xbox Series X|S?
Yes. If your game is eligible to be upgraded to a next-generation console and you go through with the upgrade from Xbox One to Xbox Series X|S, you will still be able to play the game on your Xbox One using your original copy of the game.
Troubleshooting Cross-Play Issues
12. Why can’t I invite my friend on FIFA 23?
Ensure you are both friends on Xbox Live and are online. Verify your cross-play settings in the game. If problems persist, try restarting the game or console.
13. Why isn’t cross-play working on FIFA 23?
Double check that you have enabled cross-play in your FIFA 23 settings. If you have enabled cross-play and are still having issues double-check you are running the correct version of the game. Remember, you have to be running the same generation of the game as your friend to cross play.
14. What does cross-gen mean for Xbox bundles?
Cross-gen bundles include the same game for two different Xbox generations. In almost every case these are the Xbox One and the Xbox Series versions. If you plan to play the game on both these systems for any reason then the cross-gen bundle is usually cheaper than buying the game separately.
Future of Cross-Play
15. Will EA FC (formerly FIFA) have cross-play?
Yes, in EA FC 24, players can play with their friends no matter what console they’re on. Old-gen consoles such as the Xbox One and PS4 can play together, while new gen, the Xbox Series S/X, PS5 and PC can play together too. This will also result in unified leaderboards, one for each generation.
Conclusion
While the system may seem a little complicated at first, it was designed to ensure a fair and balanced gameplay experience. So, while an Xbox One player can’t directly match with an Xbox Series X|S player, the loophole of using the old-gen version of the game does allow for playing with friends on different consoles. Always ensure that your cross-play settings are enabled and that you are using the same version of the game as the friend you are trying to play with. By understanding these intricacies, you can fully enjoy the cross-play functionalities of FIFA 23.