Cross progression refers to the ability to carry progress, achievements, or game data across different platforms and devices. This concept is particularly relevant in the context of video games, especially those that offer gameplay across multiple platforms like consoles, PCs, and mobile devices. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what cross progression entails:
Key Concepts:
Shared Account: Players typically need to link their game account to a universal account (like a Ubisoft account, Xbox Live, PlayStation Network, or a third-party service) to enable cross progression. This allows the game to keep track of player data across platforms.
Seamless Transition: Players can switch between different platforms without losing their game progress. For instance, a player could play a game on their PlayStation and then continue on their PC with all their achievements, inventory, and game statistics intact.
Inventory and Unlocks: All earned items, achievements, and character progressions—such as skins, weapons, levels, or other rewards—are synchronized across platforms. If you unlock a character or complete a mission on one platform, that progress is reflected on another platform.
Cross-Save: This feature allows players to save their game data in a way that can be accessed on different platforms. For instance, if a player saves their game on a console, that save file can be loaded on a PC version of the game.
- Competitive Play: In competitive or multiplayer games, cross progression allows players to maintain their rank, stats, and skills regardless of the platform they are playing on. This can enhance the competitive scene by unifying player bases.
Benefits of Cross Progression:
- Flexibility: Players can enjoy gaming anywhere, whether on a console at home or on a mobile device while on the go.
- User Experience: It enhances the overall experience by providing continuity, allowing players to invest time and effort into a game without the fear of losing their progress.
- Community Engagement: It can lead to a larger and more engaged community, as players can connect with friends who might be playing on different platforms.
Examples in Games:
Many modern titles incorporate cross progression, including:
- Fortnite: Players can access their accounts and progress from any platform.
- Call of Duty: Warzone: Players can retain their ranks and items across PC and console versions.
- Destiny 2: Players can transfer their character progression and inventory across platforms.
Limitations:
While cross progression offers many benefits, there may be limitations based on:
- Game Design: Not all games are structured to support cross progression due to technical constraints or design choices.
- Platform Policies: Certain platforms (e.g., PlayStation, Xbox) have specific policies that might restrict or complicate cross-progression features.
- Microtransactions: In some cases, items or currency purchased on one platform may not transfer to another due to differing approval processes for in-game purchases.
In summary, cross progression is a highly desirable feature for players who switch between different gaming devices, offering convenience, continuity, and a more unified gaming experience.