Microsoft has confirmed that the Xbox One does not require an always-on DRM connection.
The Xbox One will be able to function offline as well as online, but Microsoft said it will need an Internet connection to be fully utilised.
“No, it does not have to be always connected, but Xbox One does require a connection to the internet”, reads the Xbox Wire Xbox One FAQ. “We’re designing Xbox One to be your all-in-one entertainment system that is connected to the cloud and always ready. We are also designing it so you can play games and watch Blu-ray movies and live TV if you lose your connection.”
One of the benefits of the internet connection for the Xbox One is the cloud-based features offered. Microsoft outlines several on the Xbox Wire FAQ page including the ability to “create new gameplay, persistent worlds, and deeper experiences.”
Users will not have to wait for downloads as the system and games will update automatically and all game saves and entertainment is stored online, enabling users to access them anytime and from any Xbox One console.
The cloud will also allow the Xbox One to recognise each user, log them in to their Xbox One account and Xbox Live, with an individual home screen.
Microsoft has also confirmed that the Xbox One will not offer backwards compatibility with Xbox 360 games.
“Xbox One hardware is not compatible with Xbox 360 games. We designed Xbox One to play an entirely new generation of games – games that are architected to take full advantage of state-of-the-art processors and the infinite power of the cloud.”
However, the second-hand games market for the Xbox One is not dead as Microsoft suggests it will be introduced new services to allow gamers to trade or sell their games on to other Xbox One users.
“We are designing Xbox One to enable customers to trade in and resell games. We’ll have more details to share later.”
The Xbox One release date has been very casually outlined for “later this year” with global availability.
Next, read our Xbox One vs Xbox 360 comparison.
