Xbox One: Microsoft makes U-turn on online plans

MICROSOFT has announced that many of the controversial requirements of its new Xbox One console, such as the need to connect to the internet once a day, have been scrapped.

Many of the Xbox One's restrictions have been removed. Picture: Getty

The software giant has also made a U-turn on plans to restrict users’ ability to re-sell or lend games, while also revealing that Xbox One games can be played in any console with no regional locks or restrictions on imported games.

The move comes after heavy criticism from the gaming community, and an E3 industry conference that saw main rivals Sony make repeated reference to the Xbox One’s restrictions. Sony even produced a promotional video for its Playstation 4 console in which senior executives mocked the Xbox One’s used games policy.

Microsoft’s head of Interactive Entertainment Don Mattrick said in a statement that the company welcomed fans’ “passion, support and willingness to challenge the assumptions of digital licensing and connectivity”.

Microsoft had initially announced that the new console would require users to connect their machines to the internet at least once a day, as well as registering each of their new physical game purchases online before playing them. The company was then criticised for failing to clarify exactly what connections and ‘check-ins’ would be required.

Mattrick said: “You told us how much you loved the flexibility you have today with games delivered on disc. The ability to lend, share, and resell these games at your discretion is of incredible importance to you.

“Also important to you is the freedom to play offline, for any length of time, anywhere in the world.”

Both Sony and Microsoft will launch their ‘next-generation’ consoles later in the year - the Xbox One will cost £429, while the Playstation 4 will cost £349.