Electronic Arts is consiering a console-only matchmaking option for its shooter to address the perceived advantage of PC players using mouse and keyboard.

The studio warns of longer queue times and added complexity, but a console-only crossplay mode could attract enough users to justify the added complexity.

The $30 million toe in the water

EA's development team has discussed a console-only option but identified significant drawbacks, including the creation of an additional matchmaking pool, which could lengthen queue times for players who opt out of PC competition.

The team emphasized that they already prioritize pairing console users together whenever feasible, only inviting PC players to fill empty slots and keep wait times reasonable.

Why 4,000 unsold units became the prize

The idea surfaced on EA's official forums,where a developer explained that the studio has discussed a console-only option but identified significant drawbacks.

The decision is further complicated by the game's free-to-play battle-royale mode, which already offers a console-only crossplay option.

An echo of Sydney's 2024 institutional buy-up

Other first-person shooters have tackled this dilemma through innovative matchmaking solutions, such as the Call of Duty franchise's input-based crossplay.

In this model, PC users playing with a controller are matched with console players using similar input devices, while mouse-and-keyboaard users are paired together.

Who is the unnamed buyer?

EA's development team appears aware of this split-input issue and is reportedly monitoring community feedback.

Although no concrete timeline has been announced, the discussion indicates that a console-only crossplay mode is not entirely off the table.

Tehran's two-track response

Future updattes may explore nuanced matchmaking filters or input-based pairing to address competitive concerns without sacrificing the vibrant, cross-platform community that has become a hallmark of modern multiplayer games.