Microsoft is hoping that Windows will become relevant in the gaming industry once again with the launch of Windows 10, with the company now set to push for cross-platform online multiplayer experiences.
Xbox head Phil Spencer revealed the company’s new gaming-focused vision at GDC this week, saying: “Our goal in gaming at Microsoft is to let people play games wherever they are. Gaming was once central to what we did on Windows, but we lost our way. Now we hope to have a Windows release that’s the best Windows release for gamers.”
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Cross-platform play means that both Xbox One and PC gamers would be able to play online multiplayer games with/against each other, thus further unifying Microsoft’s platforms. However, those who are concerned that this would see Microsoft trying to sponge some extra cash out of PC gamers needn’t worry, as Xbox Live director of programming Larry “Major Nelson” Hryb has confirmed that an Xbox Live Gold subscription will not be required for PC gamers looking to play with Xbox One owners.
Responding to a question fielded by a follower regarding the upcoming cross-platform integration, Hryb replied: “Xbox Live Gold will not be required for online multiplayer gaming using our service on Windows 10 PCs and Phones.”
It’s not exactly surprising that this will be the case, as forcing PC gamers to pay for Xbox Live would open up a can of worms that Microsoft would likely want to leave untouched. Online multiplayer on PC has always been free, and if Microsoft were to attempt to charge players an Xbox Live subscription fee just to play against Xbox One owners, their attempts at unifying the platforms would crash and burn almost immediately. Still, it’s nice to have some confirmation that Microsoft and the team at Xbox haven’t lost their minds.
