Microsoft has been contemplating to bring Xbox One and PC in one place for a long time, and with its announcement at E3 2016 on June 14, Tuesday, it just proved that it succeeded with its plan. Xbox Play Anywhere is the latest initiative from Microsoft that lets the users enjoy selected games, both on Xbox One and Windows 10.
Xbox Play Anywhere enables users to purchase cross-platform games one-time and play them both on PC and console. Users may purchase a game on PC and it will be also available on Xbox One and vice versa.
"We've made a commitment to bring our first-party games to Windows and Xbox One," The Verge quoted Xbox chief Phil Spencer as saying at the E3 event. The Coalition studio head developing Gears of War, Rod Fergusson followed up Spencer's statement by stating that all co-op mode in the game will be available for cross-play both for the consoles.
All the information, saved games and achievements will be carried on both platforms, offering more flexibility and enhanced gaming experience at no added cost. Xbox Play Anywhere also offers multiplayer options between Windows 10 and Xbox One.
Microsoft made it possible for two players using an Xbox One and PC to compete for instance, in the "Gears of War 4" game in co-op mode. The launch of Xbox Play Anywhere coincides with the release of Xbox One's upcoming games such as "Forza Horizon 3," "Recore" and "Halo Wars 2," which can be played on both Xbox One and Windows 10 PCs.
Microsoft is presently focusing on first-party releases, but it is working on third-party developed games in the coming days. Xbox Play Anywhere games that can be played both on Xbox One and Windows 10 PCs also include "Sea of Thieves," "State of Decay 2" and Indie game "We Happy Few."
Players should be aware that not all games in Xbox Play Anywhere offer cross-platform multiplayer by default, according to Engadget. It is only limited to digital purchases so players buying games on disc would not be able to get a free PC copy of the game.
"Gears of War 4" will be available on Oct. 11 while "Forza Horizon 3" is expected to come anytime before Sept. 27.
Check out more details about Xbox Play Anywhere: