Game platforms respond to increased demand amid coronavirus quarantines

Enlarge / This guy has actually been self-quarantining with his game console for the last decade or so. (credit: Piqsels)

Major online gaming platforms are dealing with a surge in demand as an increasing number of countries and localities force citizens to stay home in an effort to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Both Microsoft's and Nintendo's online networks went down briefly last week for many users around the world, and network tracker Downdetector noted numerous spikes in reported problems with the PlayStation Network throughout the week.

Microsoft Head of Xbox Phil Spencer confirmed via Twitter that "usage is up on almost everything" and thanked the employees working to get the servers back up. "So many people using gaming as a way to stay connected during these times," he said at the time. "Play is a fundamental human need. Proud to be part of an industry that can offer escape and fun right now."

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