At the start of most console generations, game production typically straddles between both types of hardware targeting the most players as possible, especially those who have yet to upgrade to the higher end consoles. The same remains true for the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 and looks to remain that way for a while as hardware shortages are preventing large numbers of players from upgrading. Thankfully, most companies have offered ways to fans to upgrade for free once the new hardware has been obtained, so consumers aren't trapped when buying a game early.

There's a bit of a stigma around cross-generation games as many fans tend to be unhappy with decisions to bring what many perceive to be next-gen experiences to older hardware. The defining argument is that developing on older technology holds back advancements for the next-gen version as the company attempts to make both experiences comparable. These comments constantly surround upcoming PlayStation 5 exclusives like the God of War sequel and Horizon: Forbidden West, though the developer Guerrilla Games is pushing back on this thought.

RELATED: Horizon Forbidden West is Nearly Done With Development

In a recent interview, Horizon: Forbidden West game director Mathijs de Jonge was asked about developing the game for both the PS4 and PS5 and whether the simultaneous development cycle was holding the team back at all. His response to the question is that the cross-development wasn't limiting at all. In fact, much of the concepts that were thought up initially were included without considerations of any possible hardware limitations. Ultimately, the guiding goal was creating a unique and awesome adventure for the player to go on.

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However, de Jonge also confirmed that there are differences between the two products. Besides the obvious features like 3D audio, quick loading and DualSense controller mechanics, the other major component is the graphics. The PlayStation 5 features a cinematic lighting rig that taps into the console's processing power to be used both during gameplay and cinematics, which can't be done on the PS4. Not only that, the PS5 allowed Guerrilla developers to add tons of little details both close up such as the hairs on Aloy's face as well as at a distance such as moss growing on rocks. Surprisingly, each strand of moss is rendered individually.

I don't think the cross-generation development was limiting in any way. When we started with the concept of this game, we had so many great ideas that ended up being included - to the point that we didn't really think about hardware limitations or anything, we just wanted to design a really nice, unique experience for the player. An awesome adventure.

Whatever the case may be, players will likely have to get used to the idea of major exclusives on both Xbox and PlayStation hardware being cross-generation for the time being. One of 2021's most anticipated games, Halo: Infinite is also going to be a cross-generation title for both Xbox one and Xbox Series X players. Fans were also a bit upset to learn that the upcoming Battlefield game is also going cross-generation, though EA and DICE have attempted to reassure the community that the game won't be held back by its current gen version.

Horizon Forbidden West is in development for PS4 and PS5.

MORE: Horizon Forbidden West: All Combat and Traversal Improvements Shown in the Recent Trailer

Source: HardwareZone