Even before Microsoft formally announced its new console, a lot of rumors were flying around in regards to the system's features. No one was quite sure what the company had planned for the system, whether it would require an internet connection, the ability to play used games, and so on and so forth. Even when Microsoft finally pulled the sheet back on the Xbox One, they remained mum on the rumors, content to show off all the nifty ways folks could use it to watch television.
Finally, Microsoft has come forward to clarify the issue, updating the main site with new information. Read on to see the key points on how everything will work.
Used Games - You'll be able to pass on your old Xbox One games to friends, but there's a small catch. Anyone you pass a game along to has to me on your friends list for 30 days at least. The odds are good that some of your real life pals are as much on your Xbox, so not a big deal here, but still a bit odd. Likewise, once that game is doled out, that's it. Official rules state the "each game can only be given once." So much for letting more than one friend try out a game for themselves...
As far as selling your old games to retailers, this is also possible, but Microsoft seems to be leaving this decision to the game publishers themselves - "We designed Xbox One so game publishers can enable you to trade in your games at participating retailers. Microsoft does not charge a platform fee to retailers, publishers, or consumers for enabling transfer of these games." Looks like that Twitter campaign will have a few new hash tags to make up...
Also, definitely note the final warning at the bottom of the site: "As we move into this new generation of games and entertainment, from time to time, Microsoft may change its policies, terms, products and services to reflect modifications and improvements to our services, feedback from customers and our business partners or changes in our business priorities and business models or for other reasons. We may also cease to offer certain services or products for similar reasons." Sure you could construe this as something just put in to ensure the company is watching their back, but it still means that Microsoft could put an end to any business involving used, loaning, or re-selling games at any time the company sees fit.
Microsoft also says that the ability to loan or rent games "won't be available at launch, but we are exploring the possibilities with our partners."
Always Online Connection - The DRM Adam Orth so loved, eventually costing him his job, is still a hotly debated item for the new console generation. So is it a requirement for the Xbox One? Basically. Substitute "once every 24 hours" in place of "always," and you have Microsoft's policy: "a persistent connection is not required, Xbox One is designed to verify if system, application or game updates are needed and to see if you have acquired new games, or resold, traded in, or given your game to a friend. Games that are designed to take advantage of the cloud may require a connection." Basically, it's the ultimate reminder to pay your phone bill. "With Xbox One you can game offline for up to 24 hours on your primary console, or one hour if you are logged on to a separate console accessing your library. Offline gaming is not possible after these prescribed times until you re-establish a connection, but you can still watch live TV and enjoy Blu-ray and DVD movies."
Hope everyone's internet connection is up to snuff. For the estimated 40% in the US that don't have an internet connection, enjoy your PlayStation 4. Though, not like you're reading these words anyway.
Kinect - The idea of an ever watchful robotic eye is certainly a bit unsettling. The internet's been ablaze with a wealth of puns comparing the feature to "2001's" H.A.L. According to the latest statement from Microsoft, the players are to be in complete control over the console's Kinect feature. "By design, you will determine how responsive and personalized your Xbox One is to you and your family during setup," Microsoft said. "The system will navigate you through key privacy options, like automatic or manual sign in, privacy settings, and clear notifications about how data is used. When Xbox One is on and you're simply having a conversation in your living room, your conversation is not being recorded or uploaded." While some games may require Kinect, it can still be disabled at any time during operation. Creepily enough though, it is always listening, though according to Microsoft, only for the single voice command, "Xbox on." As far as information the peripheral gathers during gameplay, "this data will not leave your Xbox One without your explicit permission."
There, you have it. You can sell and lend games, but to a limit. A constant internet connection isn't required, but one every 24 hours is. And an all-hearing data gathering peripheral that promises to keep your information secure.
In all honesty, I could care less about the Kinect aspect. I don't have a lot of foreign dignitaries over or too many skeletons in my closet. But the online requirement coupled with the used game policy is definitely a disappointment. What are your thoughts?
