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| The New Xbox ONE console and controller |
THE MACHINE
It's called Xbox One.
- Because it is designed as 'all-in-one' device.
- It combines next-gen games with Xbox Live and a mix of new TV services.
- It will be released in Q4 2013 around the world.
- Gamezplay doesn't know how much it costs or the exact release date.
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| The New Xbox ONE controller |
- The Xbox One uses Blu-ray discs the same as the PS3.
- The new design of the chassis means it can only sit horizontally.
- Underneath the bonnet there is an eight-core, x86 processor plus 8GB of RAM.
- An new updated Kinect comes with each console.
- The new Kinect features a 1080p camera with expanded field of view.
- Kinect's software has been updated for better body tracking.
- Kinect can even monitor your heartrate now.
- The Kinect microphone has also been improved with advanced noise isolation.
- The console will not run without Kinect.
- The New Xbox controller has also been updated, with 40 new features plus a new look.
- Joypad improvements include a new directional pad, new thumbsticks and ergonomic design.
- New rumble means even the triggers on the game pad vibrate.
THE SOFTWARE
- Xbox One runs three operating systems: the box OS, a version of windows, and a bridge between them.
- The mix of 0S and the high speed hardware means the users can seamlessly switch between functions.
- Something called 'Snap' lets you run two such apps or functions at once - such as playing a multi player game while watching a film.
- If you say "Xbox On" the Xbox goes to your personalised home screen.
- Voice recognition software will learn from what you say and improve over time.
- Voice functionality won't be available in all languages.
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| The New Xbox ONE controller |
THE TV ELEMENTS
- With a HDMI feed from other set-top-boxes or cable providers, Xbox On can act as a TV guide and live television service.
- This function will not necessarily be immediately be available in the UK
- The xbox One will launch in the US first.
- The OneGuide is a new electronic programme guide that can be controlled via voice and creates playlists of favourite TV shows.
- Trending' functions will track what TV shows are popular on Xbox Live. This too will be a US - only feature at launch.
- As part of its push into TV, Microsoft has teamed up with Steven Spielberg to produce a Halo TV show, presumably broadcast through Xbox Live.
- Microsoft has also scored a deal with the US' NFL to offer interactive sports TV exclusive to Xbox One.
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| The New Xbox ONE console |
NEW XBOX LIVE
- Xbox Live has been improved for Xbox One. Downloaded games can be installed in segments so you can play them faster.
- It has background update downloads.
- Game saves and profiles, plus entertainment (music, movies or TV shows) you buy are saved in the cloud.
- Membership from Xbox Live Gold for 360 will transfer over to Xbox One.
- Gamerscore and achievements carry over.
- In fact the achievements system is being expanded it now records what you do and adds new achievements and objectives over time.
- But some elements of the existing Xbox Live - such as avatars - will not be transferred to Xbox One.
- The in-built 'game DVR' records your gameplay and saves footage to the cloud, complete with sharing tools.
- Competitive elements mean other players can compete against your 'shadow' and high scores.
- Smart Match is a new matchmaking tool.
- Skype has also been redesigned for Xbox One, Kinect and HDTVs, plus it allows for group calls.
THE GAMES
• Microsoft unveiled two new first-party titles: sequel Forza 5 and new IP Quantum Break from Max Payne creator Remedy.
• Quantum Break mixes TV footage with gameplay, with the two promising tointeract and change depending on how you
watch or play.
• There are another 13 first party games in the works, 7 of them are new IPs.
• Xbox says it is investing more than ever in first-party development and has more titles in the works than at any other time in its history.
• EA unveiled four sports games at the event: FIFA 14, Madden, NBA Live and the new UFC
• All are powered by a new next-gen engine, EA Instinct.
• FIFA 14 Ultimate Team will have exclusive game modes on Xbox One.
• Activision elosed the reveal event with the first look at Call of Duty: Ghosts.
• Microsoft and Activision have also renewed their agreement for Xbox owners to get Call of Duty DLC and competition content first.
THE ISSUES
• All software needs to be installed to the device.
• Xbox One does not require on 'always on' connection.
But regular connection to check updates and software licences is required.
• Cloud functionality will track which licences for which software players own.
• It is not backwards compatible.
• It is not expressly designed to block play of pre-owned games.
• But it might implement a system where publishers can control the pre-owned sale of their games, or charge for fees to activate used games.
