With E3 2013 right around the corner, we've been hit with a slew of confirmed rumors via Microsoft PR.
Based on what has already been confirmed, I
believe I've already come to my decision.
I'm interested to see what others think on the matter.
Here's a great round up from IGN on what has been confirmed thus far pre E3.
(Doubt we'll get much more revealed about the console itself and its functions. Microsoft cancelled the round-table with execs at E3.)
http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/05/22/xbox-one-what-we-do-and-dont-know
To summarize:
- Xbox One requires internet connection. (for licensing reasons)
- Not always online, yet highly dependent on constant internet access. (For games, access required once every 24 hours on home console and once every hour on a friend's console)
- No game sharing, only "giving". (transfer of game license, allowed only once. this means you would no longer have/own the game)
- Bound-to-obliterate-pre-owned-gaming policy. Check. (details still sketchy)
- Mandatory game installation. (after which the disc is no longer needed)
- Kinect peripheral is required for console to function.
- Kinect can only be paused, not turned off.
- Main new console features (TV bullshit) only available in the US at launch.
- No backwards compatibility. Digital or Disc.
- Xbox LIVE Gold membership will transfer as well as gamerscore.
- Xbox LIVE Arcade games do not transfer. They stay with your X360. Entertainment purchases however WILL transfer.
- Xbox LIVE Gold membership still incurs a monthly/yearly fee.
I think any sane gamer after reading these drastically different, and quite restrictive features will turn away in utter disgust from the Xbox One.
I have. Only to look back in anxiety, awaiting what they attempt to offer at E3. I am strongly bent toward not purchasing an Xbox One at the moment. So much so, that I say "no" when asked if I'll be buying it.