Next Xbox won’t require internet to play a single player game

For months, we've been concerned about rumors that the next Xbox console will require a permanent network connection. Justifiably, no one is happy with those rumors. But allow me to spread some cheer into your mundane Monday. The next Xbox won't require constant internet connection.

In an internal Microsoft email that was sent to full-time employees working on the next Xbox, it was said that, "Durango [the code name used for the next Xbox] is designed to deliver the future of entertainment while engineered to be tolerant of today's internet. […] There are a number of scenarios that our users expect to work without an internet connection, and those should 'just work' regardless of their current connection status. Those include, but are not limited to: playing a Blu-ray disc, watching live TV, and yes playing a single player game."

This is certainly good news and should relieve some of the fear mongering over Microsoft's next-gen console. I am of the mindset that many of you share — a single-player game shouldn't require a constant internet connection. That said, some features will undoubtedly require one; I'm just glad Microsoft understands that the ones listed above don't require internet.

This quote is also in line with rumors that the next Xbox will allow HDMI input and allow cable boxes to connect to your Xbox, since the console is going to be an all-purpose device that is made for living rooms.

You can follow Senior Editor Lance Liebl on Twitter @Lance_GZ. He likes talking sports, video games, movies, and the stupidity of celebrities. Email at LLiebl@GameZone.com

[Arstechnica]