One of the most controversial rumors on Microsoft’s Xbox was that it would require a persistant Internet connection to function. Many pundits and gamers thought this was outrageous. Some believed that no console company in their right mind would do this, while others felt that it was crazy enough to happen. Ars-Technica claims to have a Microsoft internal email that debunks the always-on Internet rumor. Here’s a quote from said email:
Durango is designed to deliver the future of entertainment while engineered to be tolerant of today’s Internet. There are a number of scenarios that our users expect to work without an Internet connection, and those should “just work” regardless of their current connection status. Those include, but are not limited to: playing a Blu-ray disc, watching live TV, and yes playing a single player game.
Naturally, the email has led to even more speculation (always one of the most entertaining nerd pastimes prior to a console announcement). Some writers have noticed that installing games could possibly require an Internet connection for authentication. Others feel that the fact that Microsoft sent out an email to refute the always-on Internet rumors means that such functionality was once considered. I don’t know about any of that, but I’d love to hear your take on the matter.
What do you think of Microsoft’s internal Xbox 720 rumor? Do you think it was a last-minute policy change? Do you think the machine will require an Internet connection for installing games? Or is that too inconvenient for gamers? Shout it out in the comments section (please!).
Sorry, I do not comment on speculation and rumors.
-M
Nah, just kidding, Of course I comment on speculation and rumors, this is the internet!
I knew from day one that this couldn’t be for real because it goes against the whole corporate mentality of trying to expand your customer base as much as humanly possible. I did get worried when I read on IGN about the possibility that the “always-on” feature would be utilized by publishers if they wanted it.
That rumor left me scared because if Microsoft does make a console that gives publishers the option of having their games be “always-on”, Microsoft can deflect criticism to the publishers like EA or Activision. EA, can in turn, force their stupid “always-on” Simcity to their Xbox user base (instead of just their PC players).
This is something I fear is crazy enough to happen if the publishers put pressure on Microsoft to do so. Still, even if it is optional, I will consider it a grave mistake on Microsoft’s part and will seriously consider switching my allegiance to Sony.
-M
This reeks of damage control.
Also I do expect them to put the onus on the publishers. Console makers compared to publishers look like angels. Pubs for whatever reason feel entitled to a cut of a used sale. They also think a digital copy of a game for the same price as a packaged retail copy that will never go on sale is good.
Just once I’d like a console to reek of awesomeness, like the way Edge and Christian did.
Dont forget your 5 second poses ray
Of course not! But only for the benefit of those with digital photography (updated the catchphrase to include HDR pics).
The day Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo team up to create a unified “open-source” console that plays all of their games would be the only console to reek of awesomeness.
Also, I miss Edge and Christian (and the Hardy Boys… and the Dudley Boys). Wrestling is just not the same for me without the high-flying “stunt” guys… which is probably why I like Sin Cara so much. We need more of “them” people.
-M
I agree with SG. This totally does sound like a damage control email but it also makes sense for the console to verify the game before installing it to deter piracy.