Xbox 720 Rumors: Games and Apps to Shut Off Without Internet Connection

It seems yet another source has come forward to dish out more rumors about the next-gen Xbox's alleged always-online requirement. A source speaking to Kotaku via email has stated that the next-gen Xbox, codenamed Durango, shall require an online connection at all times, and failing to connect to the Internet will cause the system's games and apps to stop.

"Unless something has changed recently, Durango consumer units must have an active Internet connection to be used...If there isn't a connection, no games or apps can be started," the source explained. "If the connection is interrupted then after a period of time--currently three minutes, if I remember correctly--the game/app is suspended and the network troubleshooter started," the source stated. 

This would mean that even games that are traditionally offline, such as RPG's or single-player adventure titles, will still require users to have their Xbox online. While many users set their consoles to connect online automatically, there are many would prefer that the decision to go online is not made for them.

Microsoft, when prompted for a comment on this latest leak about the next-gen system, released a statement saying that they will not discuss anything about the system until they are ready.

"We do not comment on rumors or speculation. We are always thinking about what is next for our platform, but we don't have anything further to share at this time," the company stated," the company stated.

However, a series of Tweets from Adam Orth (whose account is private) practically confirmed that the device shall always be connected to the Internet, by defending the comapny's right to require an Internet connection, according to Ubergizmo. He compared the negative reactions from people saying that they won't buy a cell phone in spotty coverage areas, to comparing the always-online requirement to requiring electricity. 

While some have been quick to dismiss the next-gen Xbox in light of stories such as this and the rumors that the system will not play used games, others, such as Atari founder Nolan Bushnell, have praised the new system. It is still unknown when the next-gen Xbox will be released, as it still does not even have an officially unveiling date set in stone, now that the rumored reveal in April is pushed back to May.