Could Cross Platform Development Be a Game-Changer for Game Devs?

A mobile phone with with the mobile version of video game on the dark background with console pad and gaming headset behind

The games industry is constantly evolving, and staying ahead means embracing the future of gaming: cross platform development. In today's landscape, it's not just an option - it's essential. Reaching players on every device and platform is crucial for success. To guide you through the intricacies of cross platform game development, we’ve compiled a powerful list of tactics to elevate your game to new heights.

Why Consider Cross-Platform Game Development?

In the current busy market, many game developers are considering cross platform development for a variety of reasons. The first could be that it broadens the reach of their games by enabling access across multiple platforms, including mobile devices, consoles, and PCs, by tapping into diverse player bases. This increased accessibility enhances visibility and potential revenue streams in an increasingly competitive market.

Secondly, cross platform development streamlines the development process by allowing the creation of a single codebase that can be deployed across various platforms. However, this does not necessarily reduce the amount of work required. Even if the codebase is the same, features need to be developed and performance optimised for each platform.

Lastly, cross platform development fosters community and social interactions among players across different platforms, enriching the gaming experience and driving player engagement and retention.

Whatever the reason may be, here at Kwalee we are here to help. We’ve written a few ideas to consider if you are interested in cross platform game development, or looking for tips to enhance your game.

Cross Platform Game Development Tips

Platform-Specific Optimisation

Platform-specific optimisation is paramount for delivering unparalleled gaming experiences. While a unified codebase promises efficiency, tailoring graphics, controls, and performance to each platform's unique capabilities ensures an optimal gameplay experience. Leveraging platform-specific APIs and tools, developers can fine-tune their games for maximum performance and visual appeal. Whether adjusting rendering techniques for various hardware or refining control schemes to suit different input methods, optimising for each platform is essential.

Responsive Design for Different Screens

Responsive design for different screens is vital for delivering an immersive and engaging game experience. With a huge amount of screen sizes and resolutions across devices, using various designs ensures that the game interface and assets adapt seamlessly to varying screen dimensions. This is especially crucial for mobile devices, but for PC and console games, it's primarily about ensuring that different resolutions are taken into account. This issue is largely solved for these platforms, requiring only some work to ensure all elements function properly.

Cross-Platform Save Data and Progression

The integration of cross platform save data and progression holds a huge importance, particularly for server-based online games. By facilitating seamless transitions between devices, players can effortlessly pick up where they left off without fearing losing progress. Leveraging cloud-based solutions such as Google Play Games Services or Apple's iCloud enables synchronisation of game data across platforms, ensuring continuity and convenience for players. For single-player experiences, it's often easier to manage and save data per platform.

Performance Monitoring and Optimisation

Ensuring a smooth gaming experience demands continuous vigilance and refinement. Leveraging profiling tools (like Unity Profiler or NVIDIA Nsight) and analytics enables developers to pinpoint performance bottlenecks and optimise resource allocation effectively. More importantly, understanding the limitations of the lowest-performing platform is crucial. For instance, if a game is intended for release on the Nintendo Switch, it likely shouldn't aim for cutting-edge rendering technologies unless it's designed to be streamed to the Switch.

We shouldn’t also forget that regular testing across diverse devices is paramount to guaranteeing consistent performance across platforms, allowing developers to address any discrepancies promptly. By prioritising performance monitoring and optimisation, developers not only enhance the overall gaming experience but will also boost player satisfaction and retention.

Localised Content and Internationalisation

Developers can tailor their games to resonate with players from various regions and cultures by translating in-game text, audio, and visual elements. Furthermore, considering cultural preferences and sensitivities during the localisation process ensures inclusivity and accessibility, fostering a welcoming environment for players worldwide. This commitment to localisation and internationalisation broadens the game's appeal and strengthens player engagement and loyalty.

When combined with cross platform game development, the benefits of localised content and internationalisation are magnified. Cross platform games are designed to run seamlessly on multiple devices, such as PCs, consoles, and mobile devices, though mobile ports can be particularly challenging. However, this widespread accessibility ensures that players from different regions can enjoy the game on their preferred platforms. Integrating localisation into this strategy ensures a consistent and culturally relevant experience across all devices, making it easier for players to connect with the game regardless of their platform choice.

Moreover, localised content helps address the unique monetisation opportunities and regulatory requirements of different regions. For example, certain in-game features, payment methods, or advertising standards might need to be adjusted to comply with local laws or align with player expectations in specific markets. A well-localised game that runs smoothly on various platforms can quickly adapt to these regional demands, ensuring compliance and optimising revenue streams globally.

Basically, when the game's core is designed with internationalisation in mind, it becomes easier to roll out updates, patches, or new content across all platforms without needing extensive rework for each region. This efficiency not only saves time and resources but also ensures that all players receive the latest features and improvements simultaneously, enhancing their overall gaming experience.

Localisation also helps attract new players, although it is not directly related to the challenges of releasing a game on multiple platforms, as almost all texts can be reused between platforms. Furthermore, a cross platform game with strong localisation can create a unified community of players from diverse backgrounds. Players can interact, compete, and collaborate with others globally, fostering a sense of inclusivity and shared experience. This vibrant and diverse player base can drive word-of-mouth marketing, as satisfied players recommend the game to friends and family, further expanding its reach and success.

Successful Cross-Platform Games

Numerous games have successfully leveraged cross platform availability to enhance their reach and create unified gaming communities. Notable examples include Fortnite, which spans PC, consoles, and mobile devices, allowing players to engage seamlessly across all platforms. Minecraft also stands out with its wide accessibility, creative possibilities, and robust modding community, which are available on almost every gaming device. Genshin Impact has captivated players globally with its stunning visuals and deep gameplay, supporting cross platform progression across PC, consoles, and mobile devices. Other successful titles like Rocket League, Call of Duty: Warzone, Apex Legends, and Among Us have built strong, diverse communities by enabling cross platform play and interaction.

These games demonstrate the potential of cross platform development in reaching wider audiences, enhancing player engagement, and ensuring a cohesive gaming experience across different devices.