Microsoft announced on Wednesday that it has reversed course and its next game console, the Xbox One, will not have additional restrictions on used games. In addition, the system will have "no regional restrictions" and "an internet connection will not be required to play offline Xbox One games."
Don Mattrick, President, Interactive Entertainment Business, outlined the changes:
An internet connection will not be required to play offline Xbox One games – After a one-time system set-up with a new Xbox One, you can play any disc based game without ever connecting online again. There is no 24 hour connection requirement and you can take your Xbox One anywhere you want and play your games, just like on Xbox 360.
Trade-in, lend, resell, gift, and rent disc based games just like you do today – There will be no limitations to using and sharing games, it will work just as it does today on Xbox 360.