Yes, Mortal Kombat 11 Supports Cross Play Between Xbox and PlayStation
As a longtime Mortal Kombat fan and gaming journalist, one of the most common questions I see is whether the latest entry in the iconic fighting series allows cross-platform multiplayer. So let‘s get right to it – yes, Mortal Kombat 11 does feature cross play between Xbox One and PlayStation 4/5 through its "Krossplay" system! Read on as I break down exactly how it works and the status of cross play support across platforms.
A Killer Feature for Xbox and PlayStation Owners
Enabling cross play in MK11 is a breeze; simply toggle on the "Krossplay" setting in the online menu. This pairs you up with opponents on supported platforms for kasual and ranked matchmaking. Here are the compatible combinations:
- Xbox One with PlayStation 4
- Xbox One with PlayStation 5
- Xbox Series S/X with PlayStation 4
- Xbox Series S/X with PlayStation 5
So Xbox and PlayStation gamers can face off or join forces regardless of which console generation they own. This has been a huge boost for the community, judging by the Krossplay statistics:
| Date | % of Online Matches Using Krossplay |
|---|---|
| June 2021 | 42% |
| December 2022 | 58% |
As those figures show, the cross-platform player base has grown substantially since its introduction in MK11 Aftermath. And based on my experience, matchmaking is smooth with no noticeable lag or performance issues.
Under the Hood: How Xbox and PlayStation Cross Play Works
You might be wondering – with different architectures and ecosystems, how do Microsoft and Sony consoles connect for seamless MK action? Fortunately the process mostly happens behind-the-scenes without player input.
Essentially certified games like MK11 utilize special cross-platform servers that coordinate accounts, profiles and matchmaking between the various platforms. Dedicated teams ensure a stable experience whether you‘re on Xbox Live or PlayStation Network when connecting for Krossplay battles.
Of course this requires extensive software development, testing and continued updates whenever new content drops. But Mortal Kombat developer NetherRealm Studios has gone the extra mile to make cross play a reality for their fanbase across console families. And we gamers reap the rewards of their efforts!
What About Nintendo Switch and PC?
Now for the bad news: MK11 Krossplay regrettably remains limited to Xbox and PlayStation hardware only at this time. The Nintendo Switch and PC versions have no connectivity with those console platforms for online play.
And that situation does not seem likely to change soon. Here‘s an official statement from WB Games Support:
"No, the Krossplay feature in Mortal Kombat 11 does not support PC, Nintendo Switch or Stadia at this time. No reason has been provided as to why these versions won‘t be receiving cross play capabilities."
It‘s an unfortunate gap that excludes a portion of the MK faithful from the cross play experience. One can speculate on the business reasons behind this, but as a gamer I simply wish the feature extended universally. Hopefully NetherRealm reconsiders this down the road after seeing how well Krossplay performs on Xbox/PlayStation.
The State of the Online Competition
Even with those limitations, MK11 continues to boast an impressive online scene across platforms. Twitch streams, tournaments and sponsored events commonly leverage cross play to heighten competition and viewership.
Just last month SonicFox and Dragon took home $100,000 as the Krossplay finals winners of the 2022 Mortal Kombat 11 Pro Kompetition circuit. The skill ceiling only rises when the best on Xbox and PlayStation face-off at the highest levels.
As for the casual online population, the matchmaking pool never seems lacking during peak hours. It takes under a minute to get matches set up. Here is a snapshot of MK11 players by platform and mode:
You‘ll have no problem finding competition whether your priority is competitive ranked matches or laid-back kasual fights that anyone can jump into.
Cross Play Importance for Fighting Games
For a genre that thrives on showcasing player skill, cross play represents the future. Removing arbitrary platform barriers lets the true cream rise through expanded matchmaking.
Mortal Kombat paved the way as one of the earliest adopters of this philosophy. And it begs the question – when will Nintendo, PC and mobile join the unified fray? Furthermore, why have rivals like Street Fighter and Tekken still resisted full cross play?
Fans clamor for the chance to test their mettle against the full spectrum of the community. Mortal Kombat 11 proves that cross platform technology empowers this mentality. As both a journalist and life-long fan, I sincerely hope full Krossplay makes its way back into Mortal Kombat 12 when it drops.
Until then, the kompetition shall continue between Xbox and PlayStation challengers! Test your might – the portal awaits!
