The lights are on
As we get closer to the official unveiling of the next Xbox, more talk circulates about the console. A new round of chatter says that an online connection will be required.
Edge says that sources with good knowledge of the upcoming system say that it will require an online connection, but that physical discs for it will still be sold at retail. If this rumor is true, it would certainly jibe with what we've heard developers talk about when characterizing the next-generation of systems: a gaming environment that is "always on."
The article also mentions the system's prohibition of used games, use of Blu-ray discs, and an upgraded Kinect – stuff we've heard before.
If this always-on rumor is true, while annoying and even a barrier to entry for some consumers, it would seem to fit into Microsoft's stated ambition to make its next system streaming/downloadable media focused.
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Rumor is a rumor there's no facts, and sadly if this rumor becomes real Microsoft can expect angry consumers : /
Wonder how many consumers this would cut out? How many of their consoles are a double or triple purchase to people that want to play local co-op or multiplayer, and may only have one console tied into the internet? If they want to insure that there are only 3-5 gaming companies, it is a good way to do it too, as base new sales will be even lower, not larger, because of this as consumers will wait for the retail price to go down. This may be the "reason" why new retail games will be $80 instead of $60, as has been speculated. Don't fool yourself, Steam isn't popular cause it is good, it is popular cause it is CHEAP, available, and has "discontinued" and older games. I would hope that this article is to drive hype and not true.
I would hate that. I have bad internet and that would suck if it forced me to always have to be online. I can see why they want to do it but I don't like it.
Coming from a past of no internet connection I really wish this is not true. Although i like the idea of a gaming community that is "always on" I see a drawback in a system that always has to be on. For me this is a big dislike.
Having an online connection required would alienate so much of their potential customers. The paying for Gold is enough, but requiring a connection would almost guarantee a failure for this new console. Many people think there is internet everywhere, and while that might majorly be true, the amount of customers in the dark so to speak is too great. Maybe in 20 to 30 years this wouldn't be such a problem, however, I believe that right now this is a major mistake.
If this is true, microsoft is stupid
Always on line! That's going to be a big hurtle for some people.