![CHINA-US-COMPUTERS-GAMES-INVESTIGATION CHINA-US-COMPUTERS-GAMES-INVESTIGATION](https://api.time.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/gettyimages-4563076741.jpg?quality=85&w=2400)
Video game fans have long been divided into factions. First, there’s the PC gamers and the console gamers. The latter group divides further still splitting between Xbox owners, PlayStation 4 jockeys and Wii U fans.
In most cases, these different clans can’t compete against one another — even in the same game. That’s a real headache for friends and family who own different consoles.
But Microsoft has just taken an early step towards tearing down this wall. The company announced March 14 that it will support “cross-network play,” allowing Xbox One and Windows 10 gamers to duke it out with players on different systems.
Individual game developers have to take Microsoft up on this offer. One title, Rocket League, is already set to offer cross-network play between Xbox and PC gamers, the company says.
So when will Xbox One owners get to throw down with PlayStation 4 fanatics? That’s up to Sony, which will have to follow Microsoft’s lead to establish a true gaming détente.
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