Xbox One will still exploit the power of digital, Microsoft vows

Microsoft still hopes to implement the more ambitious digital features of its Xbox One platform, it has stated.

Last night’s decision to scrap pre-owned DRM and internet connectivity requirements came at a price – users will no longer be able to play games without the disc in the drive and the digital sharing features previously outlined will now not be available.

But that doesn’t mean that Microsoft is intending to give up on the advanced cloud architecture that it sees as the driving force behind the next-generation of Xbox.

"While we are adding in the ability to use physical discs, we still believe in the power of a digital and cloud-powered future played out at launch and rolled out over time," Xbox Live corporate VP Marc Whitten told Polygon.

"You are going to see us invest a ton in all of the ways digital builds experiences. You have to be connected [for cloud processing to work]. All of the things that require the internet will require the console to connect. We want and expect most people to take advantage of those things, but we also want to give people the choice that they can play offline."

However, those hoping for Microsoft making a further PR land grab by cutting the launch price of Xbox One look set for disappointment.

Added Whitten: "On the price we feel strongly that we are delivering an immense value in gaming and entertainment. What we wanted to do was tell our complete story. We knew our complete story was partially told at the Xbox One unveil and partially told at E3. We wanted to put our story out there and show the great games we have coming. We did that and people gave us a ton of feedback."