No, You Cannot Play theHunter: Call of the Wild Cross-Platform Between Xbox and PC in 2024

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

As an avid fan of the popular hunting simulator franchise with over 7 million players worldwide, one of the most common questions I see from new and veteran hunters alike is:

"Can I play with my friends on Xbox if I‘m on PC?"

Unfortunately, the answer is no. After digging into the game‘s mechanics and networking, I can definitively say cross-platform multiplayer between PC and Xbox is not possible currently in theHunter: Call of the Wild.

Allow me to present the evidence:

A Look at theHunter‘s Multiplayer Functionality

For background, theHunter: Call of the Wild is the sequel to the original theHunter classic from 2008. It was rebuilt from the ground up by developer Expansive Worlds to take advantage of newer hardware and technology.

The game excels at delivering immersive hunting experiences, powered by cutting edge Apex engine technology:

"Built using Apex – Avalanche Open World Engine, Expansive Worlds bring a game to life not thought possible in the hunting genre. Crafted for hunters by hunters…"

This tech enables rich natural habitats and advanced animal AI for realistic behavior.

Multiplayer integration leverages the Apex architecture to facilitate playing together:

"Multiplayer allows it to play with other players via the steam server network. A game can either be hosted or joined via the Multiplayer tab in the main menu."

So how does this work technically?

  • The game utilizes peer-to-peer networking – players directly connect to each other
  • Sessions are hosted on players‘ machines, rather than dedicated servers
  • Matchmaking and discovery occurs through the platform‘s networking APIs
    • Steamworks for Steam
    • Epic Online Services for Epic Games store

This multiplayer implementation enables enjoyable cooperative and competitive experiences like community challenges and contests.

But it comes with a major downside: lack of cross-platform support across PC storefronts and Xbox consoles.

Next I‘ll analyze the reasons why…

Why Can‘t You Play Across Xbox and PC?

With a shared passion for the franchise, thehuntercotw community has been requesting cross-play for years.

Yet this crucial feature remains unavailable as of 2023.

So why is cross-platform play still missing?

Based on researching the title‘s development, technology, and industry trends, I have some theories:

1. Code and Systems Incompatibility

Enabling cross-play requires adapting the game‘s networking code to work across all platforms. This can introduce major engineering challenges:

  • Each platform has unique APIs, protocols, and SDKs
    • Steamworks vs Xbox Live vs Epic Online Services
  • Game engines must be updated to support cross-communication
    • theHunter uses a customized version of Apex Engine
  • Extensive testing is needed to ensure stability and performance

With a small team supporting a niche game, Expansive Worlds may lack the resources to properly invest in cross-play development.

2. Microsoft and Sony Politics

Industry giants like Microsoft and Sony have final say on what platforms can connect to their consoles.

Enabling cross-platform requires navigating complex publisher politics:

  • Multiplay deals and partnerships must be established
  • Specific certification and security criteria must pass

As a smaller third-party studio, Expansive Worlds lacks negotiating power compared to major players like EA and Activision.

3. Segmented Player Base Benefits Revenues

And finally, a case could be made that not supporting cross-play encourages players to purchase the game multiple times to play with all their friends.

With over 1.3 million units sold on Steam and 1 million on Xbox, even a small percentage of double-dippers can drive substantial incremental revenue.

This financial incentive means cross-play may not be in the publisher‘s best interest currently.

When Could Cross-Platform Become Reality?

Given the above analysis, I expect the barriers are more political and financial rather than technical.

  • Expansive Worlds clearly has top-tier engineering talent having built an advanced hunting simulation leveraging Apex and next-gen tech
  • Major titles like Call of Duty, Fortnite, Rocket League, and Genshin Impact prove cross-play can work between PC and Xbox

So theoretically, theHunter: Call of the Wild COULD support cross-platform multiplayer.

It comes down to whether enough voices in community rally together to demonstrate demand and nudge the publishers in that direction.

  • Fans should continue posting on official forums
  • Influential content creators can petition in videos and streams
  • Microsoft and Sony could negotiate partnerships

If these stars align, I predict we could see cross-play by end of 2023 or 2024.

It comes down to money and priorities. But sustained community pressure can make it happen!

Let me know what you think – should theHunter: Call of the Wild add cross-play? How long do you think it will take?

James K. Dorn, a passionate gamer deeply immersed in the world of video gaming. My journey in gaming is not just about playing; it's about exploring every facet of the games I love. I am particularly fascinated by the intricate worlds of role-playing games like "The Witcher" series and "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim," where every decision shapes the story.

As a strategy game enthusiast, I spend hours devising tactics in games like "Civilization VI" and "StarCraft II," always eager to share my strategies with fellow gamers. I'm also an ardent follower of the ever-evolving landscape of indie games, finding gems like "Hollow Knight" and "Celeste" that offer unique, compelling experiences.

My content isn't just reviews; it's about deep dives into game mechanics, storytelling, and the art of game design. I love dissecting the narratives of games like "The Last of Us" and discussing the innovative gameplay of titles like "Death Stranding."

Being at the forefront of gaming news, I eagerly anticipate and share insights on upcoming releases like the next big open-world adventure or the latest in the "Final Fantasy" series. My goal is to build a community where we not only play games but also appreciate the artistry and effort behind them. Join me in this gaming journey, where every session is an adventure, and every game is a story waiting to be told.

Similar Posts