Xbox One maker Microsoft today confirmed that there will be no need for a constant internet connection in order to play games on the new video games console.
When news emerged during this year’s E3 that gamers will have to verify games online once every 24 hours, the gaming community reacted with anger, causing many users to potentially jump ship to Sony and their PlayStation 4.
“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,” Don Mattrick, President of Microsoft’s Interactive Entertainment Business said in a statement.
Mattrick stated that they have listened to the community, and decided to change a couple of aspects which were announced at E3.
“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.”
Another talking point among gamers was the fact that they couldn’t freely borrow titles from friends, as the previous announcement stated that it could only be done with one friend – Microsoft has now revised the restriction, and removed it all together.
“There will be no limitations to using and sharing games, it will work just as it does today on Xbox 360. In addition to buying a disc from a retailer, you can also download games from Xbox Live on day of release. If you choose to download your games, you will be able to play them offline just like you do today,” he said.
He also added that region-locking will be removed. “Xbox One games will be playable on any Xbox One console — there will be no regional restrictions.”
“We appreciate your passion, support and willingness to challenge the assumptions of digital licensing and connectivity. While we believe that the majority of people will play games online and access the cloud for both games and entertainment, we will give consumers the choice of both physical and digital content. We have listened and we have heard loud and clear from your feedback that you want the best of both worlds,” he concluded.
Charlie Fripp – Consumer Tech editor
