San Francisco - Microsoft has retracted two controversial policies it planned to introduce with its next-generation game console, the company said.
The software giant had planned to require a daily internet connection in order to play disc-based games even if the games themselves did not require online play.
The company also rankled users with strict limitations on using and sharing games, giving an advantage - according to many experts - to the rival PlayStation 4 from Sony, which has no such limitations. Both the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 are set for release before the busy holiday shopping season.
On Tuesday Don Mattrick, president of the Interactive Entertainment Business division, said that Microsoft had listened to users and dropped those requirements.
“After a one-time system set-up with a new Xbox One, you can play any disc-based game without ever connecting online again,” Whitten said. “There is no 24-hour connection requirement and you can take your Xbox One anywhere you want and play your games, just like on Xbox 360.
“Trade-in, lend, resell, gift, and rent disc-based games just like you do today,” he continued. “There will be no limitations to using and sharing games, it will work just as it does today on Xbox 360.” Microsoft blog: http://dpaq.de/zv3K2 - Sapa-dpa