Respawn is preparing another Apex Legends matchmaking experiment, this time by enabling cross-play by default for console players on US-West servers. The goal is to get players into matches faster while keeping opponents closer in skill.
According to Respawn, the test begins on October 7 at approximately 10 am PT and runs until the season ends on November 3. Players can opt out, but the change could still spark arguments over matchmaking preferences and how much control players should have over their lobbies.
In brief:
- Cross-play will be enabled by default for all console players on US-West servers during the test.
- The experiment runs from October 7 at approximately 10 am PT until November 3.
- Respawn wants shorter queues and tighter skill gaps, with an option to disable cross-play.
- The announcement does not explicitly confirm that PC and console matchmaking pools will be merged.
Apex Legends Cross-Play Test Schedule and How to Opt Out
The test is regional, covering US-West servers. Respawn’s stated aim is to shorten queue times and tighten matchmaking skill bands, meaning players should ideally face opponents closer to their own ability.
A larger pool of available players could help the matchmaker find suitable opponents without making everyone wait longer. Whether that translates into better games is what the experiment needs to establish.
Console players who want to leave the test can turn off cross-play in the settings menu. EA’s cross-play guide lists the option as Cross Platform Play. Set it to Disabled to opt out.
There is a trade-off, as EA says disabling cross-play restricts matchmaking to players on the same platform who have also disabled it, which can increase queue times.
Respawn Previously Backed Away From Solo-Only Ranked
Respawn has already experimented with changing who can queue together. Its earlier solo-only Ranked test required Diamond, Master, and Predator players to enter matches individually, removing premade squads from those higher ranks.
Removing stacks failed to deliver the hoped-for improvement in match quality. More players encountered Masters and Predators, while Ranked participation declined. Respawn ultimately decided against making solo-only matchmaking a permanent requirement.
That experience gives players a reason to watch this experiment closely. A matchmaking change needs to improve the actual experience and keep people willing to queue.
Cross-Play Could Divide Apex Legends Players
The test could revive familiar arguments about aim assist and platform advantages. Players who dislike facing controller aim assist may worry about more console opponents, while console players concerned about mouse aiming, movement, or PC hardware advantages may push back in the other direction.
However, Respawn’s announcement does not explicitly say this test puts everyone into combined PC and console lobbies. Under EA’s published cross-play rules, console players normally match together, with console and PC parties entering PC matches. The announcement does not explain a change to that separation.
Casual players could also find a default-setting change frustrating, particularly if they previously chose to limit cross-platform matches. Someone logging in for a few relaxed games may care more about familiar lobbies than matchmaking experiments. Others may welcome shorter waits, especially if opponents feel more evenly matched.
Those are potential reactions. The test has yet to show whether players will find their matches fairer or more frustrating.
