Mortal Kombat 11, one of the most popular fighting games, does offer limited cross-play support, allowing players on different platforms to battle against each other. This feature is not automatically enabled but can be turned on through the game’s settings. With cross-play, players can face off against opponents on platforms such as PlayStation, Xbox, and PC, broadening the pool of available competitors.
However, it’s important to note that cross-play in Mortal Kombat 11 isn’t universal across all platforms. While PlayStation and Xbox players can engage in cross-platform matches, players on Nintendo Switch and PC are not included in this feature.
This has led to some frustration within the gaming community, as many hoped for a more inclusive cross-play experience. Still, the feature provides a significant improvement over previous entries in the franchise, where cross-play was nonexistent.
To enable cross-play in Mortal Kombat 11, players need to navigate to the settings menu and ensure the option is turned on. Once enabled, you’ll be matched with players from other supported platforms. This feature aims to enhance the multiplayer experience by reducing wait times and ensuring that matches are always available, regardless of the player’s platform. While it’s not perfect, it’s a step forward for cross-platform functionality in fighting games.
What is Cross-Play in Mortal Kombat 11?
Cross-play in Mortal Kombat 11 refers to the ability for players on different gaming platforms to compete against each other in online matches. Traditionally, players could only fight opponents on the same system, such as PlayStation users facing PlayStation players or Xbox users facing Xbox users. With cross-play enabled, this limitation is removed, allowing for a wider pool of opponents and improving the overall multiplayer experience.
In Mortal Kombat 11, cross-play functionality is not automatic. Players need to manually enable the feature through the game’s settings. This allows users to connect with others who are playing on different platforms, such as Xbox, PlayStation, and PC, though support for Nintendo Switch players is not included. The introduction of cross-play has helped reduce wait times for matches, providing a faster and more seamless online experience.
While cross-play is a great feature for expanding multiplayer options, it’s important to note that it doesn’t necessarily mean equal matchmaking across all platforms. The performance might vary depending on the platform being played on, but it still gives players more opportunities to test their skills against a broader range of fighters. Overall, cross-play in Mortal Kombat 11 is a welcome addition for players looking to enjoy the game with a larger, more diverse community.
Read Also: State of Decay 2 Ultimate Guide to Cross-Play
Mortal Kombat 11: How to Use Cross-Play Online
- Not Enabled by Default: Cross-play is not automatically enabled in Mortal Kombat 11 when you first start the game. Players must manually activate the feature in the settings menu.
- Where to Enable It: To enable cross-play, go to the “Online” settings within the game and toggle the cross-play option to “on.” This allows players to match with opponents on other platforms.
- Why It’s Disabled Initially: The reason cross-play is not enabled by default is to give players control over their experience. Some may prefer to only compete against players on the same platform due to concerns about performance, control preferences, or competitive fairness.
- Platform-Specific Settings: Each platform has its own settings for enabling or disabling cross-play, and these may vary slightly depending on whether you’re on PlayStation, Xbox, or PC.
- Potential Performance Concerns: Some players may have performance concerns about competing with others on different platforms, especially those on more powerful systems like PC. Disabling cross-play by default allows players to avoid potential input lag or graphics differences.
- Impact on Matchmaking: With cross-play off by default, players are limited to competing against others within their own platform’s ecosystem. This can sometimes result in longer wait times for matchmaking, particularly in regions with fewer active players.
- Encouraging Fair Play: Initially disabling cross-play could be seen as an attempt to ensure fair competition, especially in competitive modes like Ranked Matches, where players may want to ensure that they are on an equal footing with others using similar hardware.
- More Options for Casual Players: For casual players who just want to have fun without worrying about cross-platform advantages, the option to disable cross-play helps maintain a simpler and more predictable experience.
- Increased Player Pool Once Enabled: Once players enable cross-play, they gain access to a broader player pool, which reduces matchmaking times and can enhance the overall multiplayer experience.
- Player Control: Having the option to enable or disable cross-play gives players full control over their online gaming experience, making it a flexible option for those who may prefer either a more relaxed or a more competitive setting.
How to Enable Cross-Play in Mortal Kombat 11
To enable cross-play in Mortal Kombat 11, start by launching the game and navigating to the main menu. From there, go to the “Options” menu and select the “Online” tab. In this section, you’ll find the “Cross-Play” option. Simply toggle the setting to “On,” and cross-play will be activated. This will allow you to compete against players from other platforms, such as PlayStation, Xbox, and PC, depending on availability.
Once cross-play is enabled, you can enjoy quicker matchmaking times as the pool of potential opponents expands. Keep in mind that cross-play is supported in various game modes, including Ranked and Casual Matches. If you ever wish to disable cross-play, you can follow the same steps and toggle the option back to “Off.”
Does Mortal Kombat 11 Support Cross-Progression?
Mortal Kombat 11 does not support cross-progression, meaning your in-game progress, such as unlocked content, skins, and character levels, is not shared across different platforms. If you play on multiple systems (e.g., PlayStation and Xbox), your progress remains separate on each platform. This limitation can be frustrating for players who want to seamlessly transfer their achievements and unlocks between different devices.
While the game does offer cross-play, which allows players to compete across different platforms, the lack of cross-progression means you’ll need to start fresh on each system. This feature gap has been a common point of feedback among the community, with many hoping future updates or expansions will address this limitation and allow for a more unified experience.
Which Platforms are Supported for Cross-Play in Mortal Kombat 11?
| Platform | Supports Cross-Play? |
| PlayStation 4 (PS4) | Yes |
| PlayStation 5 (PS5) | Yes |
| Xbox One | Yes |
| Xbox Series X/S | Yes |
| PC (Steam) | Yes |
| PC (Epic Games Store) | Yes |
| Nintendo Switch | No |
| Stadia (Google) | No |
| PlayStation and Xbox (Gen) | Yes |
| PlayStation and PC | Yes |
| Xbox and PC | Yes |
| Cross-Platform Play (Global) | Yes |
| PlayStation vs Xbox | Yes |
| PC vs Consoles | Yes |
| PC vs PC | Yes |
Troubleshooting Common Cross-Play Issues in Mortal Kombat 11
One common issue players may face when using cross-play in Mortal Kombat 11 is difficulty connecting to opponents. This can happen if the game’s servers are experiencing high traffic or maintenance.
To resolve this, check the status of the game’s servers through official channels like Twitter or the game’s website. Additionally, ensure that your internet connection is stable and that your console or PC is connected to the internet without any interruptions.
Checking Cross-Play Settings and Network Configuration
To ensure smooth cross-play in Mortal Kombat 11, first verify that the cross-play feature is enabled in the game’s settings. This option allows players on different platforms to compete against each other, but it needs to be turned on for it to work. Next, check your network configuration. A stable, high-speed internet connection is essential for seamless gameplay.
If possible, use a wired Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi to reduce latency and connection issues. Also, make sure your console or PC’s firewall settings aren’t blocking any required ports for online play, which could cause connection problems during cross-play matches.
Dealing with Connection Errors and Latency
Connection errors and latency issues can disrupt the cross-play experience in Mortal Kombat 11, especially when playing with users on different platforms. To minimize lag, ensure that your internet connection is fast and stable, ideally with speeds of at least 10 Mbps for smooth online play. If possible, use a wired Ethernet connection, as Wi-Fi can introduce instability and higher latency.
Additionally, close any background applications that may consume bandwidth, such as streaming services or downloads. In cases of persistent latency, try switching to a different server region or restarting your router to improve the connection. If the issue persists, consider contacting your internet service provider for support.
Resolving Platform-Specific Cross-Play Restrictions
Some platform-specific restrictions can affect cross-play functionality in Mortal Kombat 11. For instance, certain console versions or accounts may require specific settings or permissions to enable cross-play. If you’re having trouble connecting with players on other platforms, ensure that your account is properly linked to any required network accounts, such as PlayStation Network, Xbox Live, or Steam.
Additionally, some platforms may have restrictions that block cross-play by default, so make sure to check the game’s settings and platform-specific options to enable it. If you’re still encountering issues, check for any platform-specific updates or patches that may address these restrictions.
Mortal Kombat 11’s Cross-Play Impact on Competitive Gameplay
Mortal Kombat 11’s cross-play feature can have a significant impact on competitive gameplay, both positively and negatively. On one hand, it broadens the player pool, reducing matchmaking times and offering a wider variety of opponents, which can be especially beneficial for players in less populated regions.
The ability to face off against players from different platforms can also enhance the experience by introducing new strategies and techniques, challenging competitors to adapt to diverse playstyles.
On the other hand, cross-play can create some competitive imbalance, particularly between different platform types. For example, PC players often have a hardware advantage with higher frame rates and precision controls, which may make it harder for console players to compete on equal terms.
This could lead to frustration for players on platforms like Xbox or PlayStation, who feel at a disadvantage. As a result, some players might prefer to disable cross-play to maintain a more level playing field, especially in ranked matches where skill disparities can be more noticeable.
Conclusion
Mortal Kombat 11’s cross-play feature is a valuable addition that expands the game’s online multiplayer experience, allowing players from different platforms like PlayStation, Xbox, and PC to battle it out. By enabling cross-play, the game reduces matchmaking times and provides a broader pool of opponents, making it easier to find matches and face diverse playstyles. However, players should be aware that cross-play is not automatically enabled and must be manually activated in the settings menu.
While cross-play enhances the multiplayer experience, it does come with some challenges. Platform differences, particularly between PC and consoles, can create competitive imbalances, with PC players often having an edge due to superior hardware. Additionally, Mortal Kombat 11 lacks cross-progression, meaning progress made on one platform is not carried over to another, which can be frustrating for those playing across multiple devices.
Overall, Mortal Kombat 11’s cross-play functionality is a step forward in creating a more connected community, but it may not be perfect for everyone. Players can enjoy quicker matchmaking and more varied competition, though the feature’s limitations—such as performance disparities and lack of cross-progression—are important factors to consider before enabling it. Despite these issues, cross-play remains a welcomed feature for many players looking to enhance their online experience.
FAQs
Is cross-play available in Mortal Kombat 11?
Yes, Mortal Kombat 11 supports cross-play, allowing players on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC to compete against each other.
How do I enable cross-play in Mortal Kombat 11?
To enable cross-play, go to the “Online” section in the settings and toggle the cross-play option to “on.”
Does Mortal Kombat 11 support cross-progression?
No, Mortal Kombat 11 does not support cross-progression, meaning your progress is not shared across different platforms.
Can I play with friends on different platforms?
Yes, if cross-play is enabled, you can play with friends on different platforms, such as PlayStation and Xbox.
Are there any issues with cross-play in Mortal Kombat 11?
Some players experience performance lag or matchmaking issues, especially if connected from different regions or platforms with varying hardware.
