Microsoft Back-Pedals on Xbox One Online Requirements and Used Games Policy

According to official reports from Microsoft, it seems that the company is back-pedalling on their initial used games policy and online requirements.

President Don Mattrick wrote in an update today, “Since unveiling our plans for Xbox One, my team and I have heard directly from many of you, read your comments and listened to your feedback. I would like to take the opportunity today to thank you for your assistance in helping us to reshape the future of Xbox One.”

He added, “You told us how much you loved the flexibility you have today with games delivered on disc. The ability to lend, share, and resell these games at your discretion is of incredible importance to you. Also important to you is the freedom to play offline, for any length of time, anywhere in the world.”

In response to such feedback, Microsoft will be making the following changes to the Xbox One console:

  • An internet connection will not be required to play offline Xbox One games– After a one-time system set-up with a new Xbox One, you can play any disc based game without ever connecting online again. There is no 24 hour connection requirement and you can take your Xbox One anywhere you want and play your games, just like on Xbox 360.
  • Trade-in, lend, resell, gift, and rent disc based games just like you do today – There will be no limitations to using and sharing games, it will work just as it does today on Xbox 360.

In addition, gamers will also be allowed play downloaded titles offline and Xbox One games will be playable with no regional restrictions. Games can also be shared as they are today, just as downloaded titles cannot be shared or resold.

Lastly, disc-based games will require that the disc be in the actual tray, as is the case with the current Xbox 360.

Well, who saw that one coming? Tell us what you think in the comments below. Was is a smart move to back-pedal in such a manner, or should Microsoft have stuck to their guns?

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