The death of video game consoles as we know it

As Sony prepares to give a press release event on the 20th of this month, more information about the next Xbox console leaked that have lead to ominous ideas of the latest video game consoles. According to the article's sources, the next Xbox will require a constant internet connection and come with some kind of serial code technology that will only allow a user to play brand new video games specifically for their one console only. In short, if the information is correct, this means no more used games or borrowing from a friend. This could lead to a domino effect of issues for consumers and businesses alike. Gamefly and Gamestop would be immediately cut from a dependable source of revenue, as well as any person who simply gets bored with a game, wants to sell or trade it in for a different one, either through a private sale or a small shop at a flea market. With the current price of new video games around $60, one can imagine that the future video game one-time only discs could be $70 or more, leading to even the more affluent in the video game community to think twice before they buy (while putting a majority of video gamers into an even tighter money situation). Those without internet connections would be stuck without an option of even considering to purchase the new console, not to mention those with unreliable, or slow internet connection speeds that might be considered null and void by the new console.

With the new specifications of both the new PlayStation and Xbox being closer to the latest PC technology, it truly closing the gap between being just a video game console and a home entertainment/PC system. But with such restrictions, it prevents consumers from just enjoying their purchases, as well as giving businesses a strain, not to even mention the extra burden on video game manufacturers to ensure that their game and disc security is up to par with the game console companies desires. It looks like the Wii U will be more attractive at the end of the day if these rumors do materialize themselves in the upcoming months.