In a huge surprise, Microsoft has done a complete 180 with the Xbox One and has removed its controversial digital rights management protection, which included requiring the console to connect to the internet once every 24 hours and complicated restrictions on used games. The news comes after last week’s E3, where Sony dominated with their PlayStation 4.
In a statement posted on the official Xbox website, Don Mattrick, President, Interactive Entertainment Business for Microsoft, wrote, "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."
"So, today I am announcing the following changes to Xbox One and how you can play, share, lend, and resell your games exactly as you do today on Xbox 360."
Microsoft has done away with any restrictions on used Xbox One games and no longer requires an online connection for the console, except for a "one-time system set-up." In addition, Xbox One will not be region-locked, as it was originally supposed to.
Sony announced last week at their E3 press conference that the PS4 will not block used games or require any internet connection whatsoever. Soon afterwards, they confirmed the system would be region-free as well.
PS4 still benefits from a $100 cheaper price point, but this new development makes the Xbox One more appealing than it was before. How do you think this will change the console war going forward? Let us know in the comments and keep checking back here at PSU for all the latest on PlayStation.
Ernest Lin is a US Editor for PSU when he’s not fighting in the console war. Follow him on Tumblr & Twitter for updates on gaming, movies, traveling, anime, Japanese pop culture, and more.