Hoping to clear up confusion surrounding its next video game console,
Microsoft has shared new details on how features such as used games will work on
the Xbox One.
Through a series of posts published Thursday, Microsoft discusses several
features that have served as points of concern to video game players, including
the role of pre-owned titles and whether the device will require a persistent
online connection.
Microsoft says Xbox One titles will launch in physical and digital forms on
the same day, and players can access those games on any Xbox One console through
the cloud.
Players can also establish a family of up to 10 members that can explore a
shared games library and play any title they choose from any console.
Microsoft also says players can resell or trade older titles -- no fees
required -- at participating retailers. However, it appears there will be some
limitations in sharing games. According to a post on game licensing, users can
offer a one-time gift of a select title to a friend, so long as they've been on
their Xbox Live friends list for at least 30 days.
The company also says loaning and renting Xbox One games "won't be
available at launch, but we are exploring the possibilities with our
partners."
As for online features, the Xbox One will not require a persistent
connection, but will allow players to enjoy a game offline for up to 24 hours
before requiring an online check. When logged into another device, Xbox One will
perform hourly online checks.
While the new information from Microsoft provides some clarity into their
stance on used games and online components, several questions still persist.
What role do digital titles have in the used games marketplace? How will the
"family" structure work? What happens when technology used to perform online
Xbox One checks don't work, or get shut down?
The used games market continues to stoke heated debate within the video
game industry. They benefit consumers seeking games that cost less than the
standard $60 price tag, but publishers have grown frustrated by the inability to
make money off these sales. There's also fear used games hurt the sales of new
titles.
Microsoft will likely share more information at next week's Electronic
Entertainment Expo (E3) in Los Angeles.
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