Xbox One Policy Change - The Full 180

Microsoft has changed its policies regarding Xbox One’s internet requirements, used game restrictions and more.

Contrary to belief and specifically the details announced earlier this month, Microsoft has now confirmed news originally reported on Giant Bomb that Xbox One will not require an internet connection to play offline games or need to check in every 24 hours; instead, internet will only be required when initially setting up the console.

Microsoft confirmed that "After a one-time system set-up with a new Xbox One, you can play any disc based game without ever connecting online again," and went on to say that, "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."

Like on Xbox 360, "playing disc based games will require that the disc be in the tray."

If you followed my Twitter feed you’d have probably heard about this even before the release as one particularly pressing gamer asked for answers to these policies. Interestingly Microsoft had never confirmed 24 hours sign in for playing disc based games anyway. It may just be a case of poor interpretation.

A representative for the company added, "I would like to take the opportunity today to thank you for your assistance in helping us to reshape the future of Xbox One."

On top of this the Xbox One will also no longer restrict used games, and will instead allow discs to be exchanged in the same way they are on Xbox 360. There will be no additional restrictions for trade-in’s either or lending games to friends. The system is also no longer region locked so all downloaded games will function the same way whether your console is connected or not.

It seems that the backlash from E3 has actually caused the American powerhouse company to sit up and take note of people’s feelings. At one point last week IGN had a vote that showed an 84% ‘voting share’ in favour of purchasing the PlayStation 4 over Microsoft’s console.

In addition to being available in retail stores, Xbox One games will also be available for download on day one and will be playable on any Xbox One console. Obviously these downloaded titles cannot be shared or resold, much like the 360 concept, but it’s still a good feature for housebound or people unable to make the journey to the shops.

Microsoft's decision followed mass confusion following the announcement of Xbox One in May. At E3 last week, Sony announced similar policies for PlayStation 4, which will not require an Internet connection or periodic authentication and does not restrict used games. In fact this announcement was probably one of the most cheered events at the whole conference.

Xbox One is currently available for pre-order from various retailers. For more information on the console, including every confirmed game so far check other articles on my blog.