Riders Republic is a future Ubisoft game that lets players explore an online, multiplayer universe focused on extreme sports. Featuring biking, skiing, and wingsuits, Riders Republic is a welcome accessory for the fall lineup this season for fans from the lapsed extreme sports genre, which mostly fell from the mainstream consciousness in the mid-2000s. However, those anticipating its launch on October 27 have been asking one key question: Does Riders Republic as a web-based multiplayer game support crossplay?
As technology within the gaming industry has progressed, some companies have made the decision to support online play between multiple platforms. The times are mostly gone when gamers had to buy an entire console based on where their friends were playing. Even in 2022, crossplay is becoming more popular, however it still is not always confirmed feature, which means that the ability to have fun with friends regardless of what console one owns can be a sticking point when deciding to pick up a brand new game.
Luckily for people anticipating Riders Republic next week, someone's console of preference seems like it won't matter since Ubisoft has confirmed crossplay capabilities. This really is very good news, especially because Riders Republic is launching on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S – in addition to cloud-based services Amazon Luna and Google Stadia. Having a simultaneous release on so many systems, it's reassuring to know that players won't need to debate which platform deserves their purchase.
Riders Republic: Crossplay & Multiplayer Explained
During the company's E3 livestream captured, Ubisoft confirmed that Riders Republic will, in fact, support both crossplay between platforms and cross-generation play between PS4 and PS5 and Xbox One and Xbox Series X. However, this doesn't suggest that all features is going to be readily available for all players because of the limitations of last-generation hardware.
According to Ubisoft's FAQ concerning the game's beta in August, Riders Republic multiplayer modes may run a little differently depending on which hardware is being used. Essentially, even though the game has crossplay across numerous platforms, those found on current generation consoles hoping to have fun with friends who are still on an Xbox One or PS4 might need to temper expectations slightly. For example, underneath the “Mass Races” subheading around the FAQ, Ubisoft states that on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X, the Mass Races mode will support 50 players, whereas PS4 and Xbox One Riders Republic lobbies will only support 20.
That said, Mass Races appears to be the only mode affected by generational differences, meaning that, for the most part, Riders Republic is really a cross-generation title with crossplay, almost without any limitations. It's important to note that Ubisoft is also offering a totally free week of play, although it will stop after 4 hours, for those interested in obtaining a taste of Riders Republic before it officially launches next week.
