Tech giant Microsoft recently announced a new feature which is considered by many tech analysts to be a game changer; the cross-network play for the Xbox console. Microsoft had, on several occasions in the past, hinted about the possibility of cross-network play. With this new feature, Xbox One console gamers can play the same game together with other gamers using platforms such as the PlayStation 4 or PC.

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In a statement posted on Xbox Wire, ID@Xbox director Chris Charla wrote, "First, in addition to natively supporting cross-platform play between Xbox One and Windwos 10 games that use Xbox Live, we're enabling developers to support cross-network play as well."

Reports claim that game developers building games for Windows 10 and Xbox One will be able to support the feature. However, for the feature to be compatible with the PlayStation 4 and other platforms, Sony and other interested companies will have to "participate" in order to make it a reality.

According to The Verge, one of the first video game titles to support cross-network play is the widely popular "Rocket League." Microsoft said that it has already expressed its plans to work with other game developers and networks in order to enable the feature and make it cover as many platforms as possible.

Microsoft said that once the feature rolls out to "Rocket League," it will allow Xbox gamers to play against PC gamers. The tech company added that gamers will have the option to turn off the feature if they do not want to use it.

Many tech analysts believe that should game developers and console manufacturers follow the initiative started by Microsoft and support cross-network play, it will change the whole gaming platform as a hole.

Currently, the absence of cross-network play means that video games are restricted on the platforms that they support. The idea of opening an online multiplayer gaming platform that covers all major markets will not only remove a big restriction in the console gaming industry but also incorporate PC gamers into the picture.

Whether or not game developers and companies like Sony will take rally to Microsoft's side when it comes to supporting the cross-network play feature remains to be seen. However, tech experts believe that gamers' opinion will play a significant role in this aspect since they are the most valuable asset of the gaming industry.