Optical discs will be used for installs only, report claims
The next Xbox will be “always on and always connected” to the internet, a new leak of the console’s development kit claims.
As reported by VGLeaks, which has in the past leaked specifications for the Microsoft’s next-gen console and the PS4, the online functionality is designed to allow users to “quickly and easily enjoy their connected entertainment experiences”, without the need for update installs or console restarts.
The leaked document also states that the next Xbox will be ready instantly when users want to play, with a constant network connection used to keep software and games up to date.
As well as always online, the hardware overview states that while optical discs will be used, play from them will not be supported.
It should be noted however that a disclaimer at the top of the documentation states that it is “preliminary and subject to change”.
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The document reiterates a report earlier this year in which sources “with first-hand experience of Microsoft’s next generation console” told Edge that a new version of Xbox Live would play an integral role in the hardware with always-on functionality, while each disc would come with its own activation code.
This means that only the initial user can install and play the game, effectively preventing the ability for users to sell or buy second-hand games.
Should Microsoft’s next Xbox require online functionality to run and effectively block second-hand gameplay, it could likely be met with a backlash from consumers already up in arms over a similar always-online requirement for EA’s SimCity.
If true, it will also be interesting to see whether the always online connectivity will also act as a form of DRM, particularly given that games can only be installed from discs, rather than played from. It is also unclear how the prevention of a second-hand market would sit with current laws on ownership.
If MS push ahead with requiring a 24/7 internet connection and blocking game resales i can see the xbox3 failing miserably. I personally won't buy a game that cant be played in single player offline mode, partly because my internet isn't guaranteed to be working 100% of the time, and i object to being treated like an arsehole.
...is guaranteed to work reliably 24/7. There's also the issue of bandwidth caps imposed by many broadband providers, which many people will begin to hit on a regular basis once they add more "always on" devices to their home networks.
From what I see in this article, and other similar articles I've read, they mention that the new XBox will have a 24/7 connection. Does this mean that all games will require this connection, or does this simply mean that the console is constantly connected to the Internet?
It can only be always on if I leave the power strip to the entertainment center always on which I don't. It gets powered off when I am done with it. Seems environmentally irresponsible to encourage always on technology where it is not required.
