Microsoft reverses Xbox One game restrictions

Microsoft has reversed its controversial decision to impose restrictions on pre-owned games for its new Xbox One console.

Initially, Microsoft said it would assign each copy of a game to its owner to restrict the trade of pre-owned games, and that an internet connection would be required to play all games.

But in the face of an outcry from the gaming community about the digital rights management (DRM) plans, the company has changed its stance.

When the new Xbox One console is released in November 2013, there will be no need to authenticate the system online every 24 hours.

"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,” Don Mattrick, president of Microsoft’s interactive entertainment division, said in a statement.

Like Xbox 360, Xbox One can now be taken anywhere users want to play games.

"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,” said Mattrick.

However, the rules apply only to games bought as physical discs, and not games downloaded via the online Xbox store, according to the BBC.

In changing its stance on physical discs, Microsoft has also scrapped plans to allow gamers to "trade" downloaded games online.