Fortnite cross-platform play on Nintendo Switch is getting a few changes.
As part of the 8.10 patch notes for the game, developer Epic Games revealed that the starting pools for cross-platform play have been altered. Previously, Nintendo Switch players would be initially combined with PS4 and Xbox One players, presumably as part of the "console pool." Starting in V8.10, Switch players will instead be matched initially with mobile platform players, which is to say those playing the game on iOS and Android.
Epic says they "expect an on-average better per-game experience for both mobile and Switch players" as a result of this change. In recent weeks, there has been consternation regarding Fortnite's performance on the Switch platform. Some say that the game is buggy, has a low frame rate, and that its textures and visuals aren't up to scratch. There have also been claims that the Switch version's controls and frame rate make the Switch version of the game unfair, especially when facing off against Xbox One and PS4 players. The mobile versions of the game are closer in terms of visuals and gameplay to the Switch version, so Epic is likely hoping that this will create a smoother and more like-for-like experience.
It's important to note that if you're a Switch player you can still engage in cross-platform Fortnite play with your friends. This is just an adjustment to the starting play pools, so Switch players will be initially matched with mobile users, while Xbox One and PS4 players will initially be matched with each other. You can still play Fortnite with your friends if they're not on the same console as you.
The combination of the PS4 and Xbox One pools also now requires players to opt into the cross-play feature. Not doing so will restrict players to Creative and Playgrounds modes. Patch 8.10 also brings a slew of gameplay improvements, updates, and other features. You can read the full patch notes over on Epic's website.
How do you feel about this change to Fortnite? Let us know in the comments below!
