Ever since the ad campaign for “Genesis does…what Nintendon’t,” video game publishers have publicly been warring about all sorts of issues, especially in the online era. Notably, in the past decade, cross-play was a massive barrier for PlayStation, leading to a years-long rollout of the service.
In some cases, even features like cross-buy aren’t a given. But thanks to a joint statement from Nintendo, PlayStation, and Xbox announced on X, they can at least agree on something.
Nintendo, PlayStation, & Xbox Share Safety Principles
With More Info To Come
The big three’s joint statement deals with online safety regulations, part of a “commitment to safer gaming.” While the publishers shared a plan to work together in 2020, that plan is now coming to fruition for “new innovations in player safety.”
Here’s the intended goal across all three publishers: “Nintendo, Sony Interactive Entertainment, and Microsoft continue to collaborate to improve player safety across our platforms. We believe gaming is for everyone and strive to provide experiences that are positive and enjoyable for all, especially for our youngest players. We work to accomplish this by pursuing a multidisciplinary approach, integrating advanced technology, research-driven insights, supportive community efforts, and skilled human oversight.”
It’s a big vague, but the missive also details what that actually means:
Promoting safety tools for players and parents
More moderation
Additional control options
Expanding upon the ESRB and PEGI’s current efforts
Expanded reporting tools
Easier removal for inappropriate mods
All of this is strikingly similar to the code of conduct that Roblox recently laid out amid lawsuits against the company. Player safety (especially among children) has been a major focus in recent years, especially with games aimed at kids that support mods. Expect more of these kinds of statements in the future.
It’s Nice To See A Collaboration
Beyond Cross-Play
While it’s not a Mario x God of War x Halo crossover, it’s great to see game companies agree on something. As all three platform holders continue to chase profits amid a global hardware shortage, competition can be brutal, but in the end, players should, in theory, see a direct benefit from these new safety measures.
Nintendo, PlayStation, & Xbox Announce Rare Team-Up
