Xbox Live experiences its second outage this week. The service struggles to keep up with the increased server load caused by millions of gamers stuck at home, thanks to the coronavirus outbreak. Issues first began popping up some time after 7PM ET on Friday, with Down Detector indicating sharp spikes in user-reported connection problems and Microsoft later confirming Twitter that it’s “experiencing issues” with matchmaking, Party Chat, and Looking for Groups.” As the country races to outpace the rate of infection by practicing “social distancing,” meaning self-isolation to prevent the spread of germs, millions are locked in their homes hoping to avoid the virus. Several states have even resorted to closing schools, bars, restaurants, and all other non-essential services. As a result, there are a ton of people at home with nothing to do but play video games.
On Sunday, Xbox Live experienced a similar outage that lasted more than two hours. That was slightly more serious, with users reporting issues signing into Xbox One devices. Microsoft’s Xbox Live Status page currently says there are still issues with the social and gaming portions of the platform.
Roughly 10:45PM ET, Microsoft said it had resolved the issues around matchmaking and Party Chat, but it did not say it had fixed Looking For Groups.
There couldn’t be a worse time for Xbox Live to struggle, as millions of people are forced to stay inside with limited entertainment options. As the weeks go on, and more states move to shelter-in-place their citizens, the internet connectivity issues could continue to deteriorate. Hopefully, experts are working on lightening the incredible strain the networks are under during these unprecedented circumstances, and gamers can play until this all blows over.
