"Durango [the codename for the next Xbox] is designed to deliver the future of entertainment while engineered to be tolerant of today's Internet." It continues, "There are a number of scenarios that our users expect to work without an Internet connection, and those should 'just work' regardless of their current connection status. Those include, but are not limited to: playing a Blu-ray disc, watching live TV, and yes playing a single player game."
It is very similar in idea to Steams activation and offline play modes. It is good for everyone, however, I would love to not be connected and still have games work right out of the box.
Source: http://arstechnica.com/gaming/2013/05/microsoft-next-xbox-will-work-even-when-your-internet-doesnt/
The funny thing I noticed was first, pointed out by ArsTechnica, was that this was distributed in an internal email at Microsoft. If it is to be believed, they are sending out a mass email confirming that things have not changed (i.e. there is an offline mode.) Is it just me or is it odd you would send an email update stating that nothing has changed and to re-iterate the offline mode? I do think its odd, and honestly, the amount of backlash Microsoft would get for this is pretty harsh. With the less than enthusiastic reception of Windows 8, it seems Microsoft may have lost touch with its consumer base.
Tie this in with the firing of Adam Orth after his comments pissed off the majority of the gaming community (even ones that don't mind always online devices) by telling them to "#dealwithit" on Twitter. His main contention that having internet is like having electricity and running water. Which it isn't, and when the economy is in the state it is, some people have forgone home internet. To be honest, if they chose this route for a console, that is their prerogative, and I can understand it (not necessarily like it or desire it, but understand it for sure.) The way Adam came off though to me this sounded like a spoiled brat who should know better. It also makes me wonder if his opinion is shared at Microsoft, if just not publicly. This wasn't some lowly Microsoft peon after all, it was Microsoft's Game Director.
Source: http://www.theverge.com/2013/4/10/4210870/adam-orth-leaves-microsoft
Source: http://www.theverge.com/2013/4/5/4185938/adam-orth-speaks-on-required-internet-connection-for-durango-rumors
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