After the Xbox One reveal the focus was on how the next console from Microsoft would handle used and rented games. Microsoft executives kept giving different answers to journalists, but five days before E3 2013 we have the official response.
The biggest announcement is that all the games installed on your Xbox will be tied to your Xbox Live account. This means if you sign into your friend’s Xbox One with your Live account, you will be able to access all of your games. You would have to download the game to your friend’s Xbox, but you will be able to play any game that is tied to your Xbox Live name. Second, all games will be released both in stores and digitally on the same day. Microsoft says that the disc will be a quicker way to install your games.
Microsoft is adding family access, where up to 10 of your relatives can have access to your account. Gamers will be able to trade in used games for cash or credit, but it is up to the publisher of games if they want to allow trade ins. Microsoft Game Studios has said they will allow used game sales of their titles. Also, you will be able to share games with friends, but there are two requirements: your friend must be on your Xbox Live friend’s list for at least 30 days prior to borrowing your game, and a friend can only borrow a game once.
In addition to detailing how used games will work on Xbox One, Microsoft also discussed the fears of the console being always-on. They explained that the console will always be connected to the cloud, and will be in a low powered state to automatically update the console and games, even when it is not in use. Microsoft has confirmed that the Xbox One must connect to the internet at least once every 24 hours, which confirms reports we had heard earlier.
Microsoft has also addressed the issue of privacy and Xbox One. There was much fear that the Xbox One would serve as a recording device and invade your living room. Microsoft has confirmed that the Kinect will not record anything if it is not being used, and that some games may use private information like your name or face, but it will not leave your console.
You can find the full details about games licensing here, connectivity here, and privacy here. Tell us what you think in the comments.
