Can New Gen and Current Gen Play Together? A Comprehensive Guide
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The question of whether new generation consoles (like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S) can play with current generation consoles (PlayStation 4 and Xbox One) is a common one among gamers. The short answer is: it depends on the game. While a blanket “yes” or “no” isn’t possible, the good news is that many games support cross-generation play, allowing you to enjoy multiplayer experiences with friends regardless of their console. Let’s delve deeper into how this works and what to expect.
Understanding Cross-Generation Play
Cross-generation play, also known as cross-gen, allows players on different generations of the same console family to play together. This means that a player on a PlayStation 5 can potentially play with someone on a PlayStation 4, and a player on an Xbox Series X/S can potentially play with someone on an Xbox One. This feature is a massive step forward for gaming, as it significantly reduces the barrier to entry for multiplayer games and keeps friends connected.
How Does it Work?
The mechanics behind cross-gen play are usually managed by the game developers. They have to design their games in a way that they can handle players from different console generations. This can involve creating separate servers or employing techniques to match players appropriately. Generally, there are a few approaches used:
- Direct Matchmaking: The game’s matchmaking system allows players from different generations to be matched together seamlessly.
- Specific Cross-Gen Servers: Some games may use specific servers designed to handle cross-gen play, ensuring a smoother experience.
- Opt-in Systems: Some games may allow players to opt-in or out of cross-generation play, offering more control over their multiplayer experience.
Limitations of Cross-Generation Play
While cross-gen play is a fantastic feature, there are some limitations:
- Not Universal: Not all games support cross-generation play. Some developers choose not to implement it due to development costs, performance limitations, or other reasons. Always check the specific game’s specifications.
- Performance Discrepancies: There can be some performance differences between console generations. While developers usually try to make the experience consistent, there can sometimes be differences in frame rates or loading times.
- Feature Differences: Some games may have slight differences in features between console generations. While these differences are usually minor, it’s something to be aware of.
- Incompatible Game Versions: For games that have separate game versions for the console generations, like some sports games, cross-gen play is typically limited to the same game version.
Cross-Generation Play: Game Specifics
It’s important to note that the capability of cross-generation play is a game-by-game decision made by the game developers. There’s no automatic feature that ensures compatibility across all games. A crucial difference should be made between cross-play and cross-gen:
- Cross-Play implies players across platforms can play together (e.g. PS5 players with Xbox players).
- Cross-Gen means players on different generations of the same platform family can play together (e.g. PS5 players with PS4 players).
Here are a few examples from the provided document to illustrate this point:
- Minecraft: Minecraft on the Bedrock Edition supports cross-platform play, which means you can play with friends on different platforms, including mobile, PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch, provided they are all on the same game version. Within the Xbox and PlayStation ecosystem, this means a PS4 player can play with a PS5 player, and an Xbox One player with an Xbox Series X/S player. However, Minecraft: Java Edition is not compatible with the Bedrock version, meaning Java edition players cannot play with Bedrock players, regardless of their console.
- Battlefield 2042: In this case, players on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC can play with each other, while PS4 and Xbox One players are limited to playing with each other only. This highlights a case where cross-play and cross-gen are combined, but with limitations.
- NBA 2K24: Some sports games are a good example of games that often have different versions and limitations. Typically, current and next generation versions of sports titles are not compatible.
It’s crucial to check the specific game’s compatibility before you purchase it if cross-gen play is a deciding factor. This information can usually be found in the game’s description, on the publisher’s website, or via game-specific forums and communities.
Why Consider Cross-Generation Play?
- Play With Friends: Cross-gen play enables players to continue playing with friends even if they haven’t upgraded to the latest console generation.
- Wider Player Base: Allows a wider player pool, potentially leading to quicker match times and a more active multiplayer community.
- Transition Period: Assists players in making the transition to new-gen consoles without severing the link with friends using older consoles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions that delve deeper into the topic:
1. Can PS5 players play with PS4 players?
Yes, in many games, PS5 and PS4 players can play together. Game developers now have the option to enable online multiplayer matches between these two generations of consoles.
2. Can Xbox Series X/S players play with Xbox One players?
Yes, similar to the PlayStation, many Xbox games allow players on the Xbox Series X/S to play with those on Xbox One. These two console families often share a similar eco-system.
3. Can PS5 players add Xbox players?
The ability to add friends across different platforms depends on the specific game and its cross-play features. Generally, within games that support cross-play, you can add friends regardless of their platform. For example, if a game supports crossplay for Playstation and Xbox, you would be able to add them. However, the platform’s ecosystem will still be separate (e.g. Sony friends list and Xbox friends list).
4. What happens if I have a physical copy of a game for PS4 and get a PS5?
If the game supports a free upgrade, you can often transfer your game data and use the same disc or redeem a digital version on the PS5. If the game has a separate version, you may need to buy a PS5 copy. If you get a cross-generation bundle, you would typically have access to both game versions.
5. Can you play Minecraft across versions?
Minecraft Bedrock Edition allows true cross-platform play, as long as the players are on the same game version. However, Minecraft: Java Edition cannot cross-play with the Bedrock edition.
6. Do I have to buy two copies of a game to play across generations?
Sometimes, yes, but often, no. Many games offer a digital upgrade for PS5 and Xbox Series X/S versions or provide cross-generation bundles, allowing you to play on both consoles with a single purchase.
7. What is a cross-generation bundle?
A cross-generation bundle is a package that gives you access to both the PS4/Xbox One version and the PS5/Xbox Series X/S version of a game, usually for a slightly higher price.
8. Why can’t Java and Bedrock players play Minecraft together?
Minecraft Java Edition and Bedrock Edition are developed separately, with different features, using different code and servers and thus are incompatible with each other.
9. Is Bedrock Edition or Java Edition more popular?
Both editions have their popularity, but Bedrock tends to run better on older systems, due to Java’s generally poor optimization. This can make it a more popular choice for players who do not have the latest high-end PCs. Bedrock is also the version that enables crossplay across different platforms.
10. Can siblings play Minecraft together using different versions?
Yes, but only if they are both on the same version of the game (e.g. Bedrock Edition), regardless of their platform. They can then play together through local multiplayer if they are on the same platform or through online servers.
11. Will there be future versions of games that don’t support cross-gen?
Yes, it’s possible. Some game developers might choose to create games exclusively for newer generation consoles to take full advantage of their hardware capabilities, potentially making them incompatible with older generations.
12. Why am I unable to join my friend’s game sometimes?
Double check that your game’s multiplayer settings are enabled. Also verify that all parties are on the same version of the game. Sometimes firewall or router settings may cause connection issues.
13. Do all online games support cross-generation play?
No, not all online games support cross-generation play. It is best to check the game details and compatibility before buying if cross-gen play is important to you.
14. Is it worth upgrading to a new-gen console now?
If you play a lot of games that benefit from the faster loading times and enhanced graphics of the new-gen consoles, and are interested in cross-generation compatibility, then it’s probably worth upgrading. The PS5 and Xbox Series X/S both offer a significant upgrade in terms of features and performance.
15. Will cross-generation play always be available?
It’s very likely, but not guaranteed. While it is a widely adopted feature, developers may eventually phase it out, especially as newer consoles are released, and the technical difference between the console generations becomes more significant.
In conclusion, cross-generation play is a fantastic feature that enhances the gaming experience by connecting players across different console generations. However, it’s crucial to understand the specific details of the games you are interested in and be aware that not all games support cross-generation play and it may not always be available. Always verify game compatibility and version information before buying to avoid any potential issues.