Microsoft's Xbox One is currently treading some murky waters, with much of the attention focused on whether or not gamers need an always-on connection, and if used games will require a fee. The company has thus far failed to definitively clarify either situation—it sounds like not even Microsoft knows. We're still many, many months away from the console's eventual arrival, but gamers are eager to know what they're in for. However, it's difficult to make an informed judgement at this point.
According to a Polygon, who spoke with Microsoft sources, the company won't require a fee to reactivate used games. The Redmond company previously hinted a hefty fee would be attached, but it appears that's not true. New, confusing rumors have seemingly hit everyday since the One was announced earlier this week, so there's no telling how long Polygon's report will hold.
"The ultimate system that Xbox One will use for used games and online authentication sounds like it is still in open debate on some level internally, which may explain the company's reticence in more directly clarifying the matter this week," Polygon said.
Microsoft will apparently address used game and Internet requirements at E3.
Speaking of Internet requirements, the Xbox One doesn't have to always be connected, but it does require a connection, Microsoft said. A particular model hasn't been officially decided on by Microsoft, but the Internet connection would allow Microsoft to check if your copy of a game is legit or not. Disks will reportedly have an encryption code built in, which Microsoft can then authenticate over the Internet. Thus the need for an Internet connection. As of now, it's unclear how often Microsoft would check for authentication.
In special circumstances, like active-duty soldiers in war zones, Microsoft will allegedly supply exemption codes. It's still unknown how Microsoft will account for other situations where Internet isn't available, or if the Internet goes down in a particular area.
Information surrounding the Xbox One is still plenty confusing, especially since Microsoft itself isn't 100 percent certain what its plans are. If the company is indeed going to speak at E3, Microsoft needs to very carefully explain how it plans on handling each situation. Until then, the conflicting and often confusing information will only further frustrate potential buyers, and possibly alienate some corners of the Xbox's gigantic fanbase.
