Microsoft has decided to finally elaborate on some of the concerns that we’ve have had since the Xbox One was revealed. Obviously questions like “will my console always have to be online?” or “can I buy and sell used games?” have been at the top of the community’s list. Unfortunately, the answers are pretty much what we expected, and that’s not a good thing.
First of all, this used game license rumor is a bit overblown. Microsoft won’t require you to purchase used game passes in order to play used games. Instead, they have set up a system that will allow publishers to easily enforce used game licenses. So EA or Activision could force you to pay a fee to play a used game on the Xbox One, but Microsoft won’t be directly involved.
Secondly, you will be able to lend your disc-based games to your friends, but with some severe restrictions. You can only give games to people who have been on your buddy list for 30 days and each game can only be given once. So, no more re-gifting or hand-me-downs for Xbox players.
The Xbox One also allows up to ten players in your family to have access to your shared library of games on any console. You will also be able to access all of your games from any console you like, as long as you have access to the internet.
Speaking of the Internet, the Xbox One will require you to connect once every 24 hours on your primary console. The ability to play games will be shut down if you don’t keep connecting. However, the console’s TV and movie capabilities will not. It’s even worse if you are signed on to your account on another console that isn’t your primary. Then you will have to connect to the Internet every hour. Microsoft suggests a connection of at least 1.5Mbps for uninterrupted gaming, even when offline.
Finally, all disc-based games will also be available as digital releases on the Xbox One, which is cool considering you will have to be connected to the Internet to play them in the first place.
Source: Microsoft