Microsoft has reversed its policy requiring the Xbox One console to check-in every 24 hours as well as other restrictions on second-hand games following extensive criticism.
Microsoft’s decision to require an online ‘check-in’ every 24 hours to allow the Xbox One to continue to function was just one announcement that drew the ire of gamers. The new console was also extensively criticised in the press and online for a controversial policy limiting the resale of games and restricting the consumer’s rights to lend games to friends.
Following weeks of criticism and argument – and, crucially, much crowing and counter-PR from rival console maker Sony – Microsoft has today announced that it will reverse these decisions and additionally drop region locking on games to allow titles to be bought and played anywhere in the world.
In a statement published online, Microsoft’s Don Mattrick said, ”We appreciate your passion, support and willingness to challenge the assumptions of digital licensing and connectivity. While we believe that the majority of people will play games online and access the cloud for both games and entertainment, we will give consumers the choice of both physical and digital content. We have listened and we have heard loud and clear from your feedback that you want the best of both worlds.”
