Boycott 'Xbox One'

We the undersigned intend to boycott the purchase of Microsoft's upcoming next generation gaming console 'Xbox One', unless/until Microsoft will correct or reconsider several flaws and undesirable features. Among these are:

1.) Violations of ownership rights. Microsoft's new policy of "single ownership" of video games creates a number of legal and ethical concerns. Since the early days of console gaming, owning a game unit (such as a cartridge or CD) allowed you to own and play that copy of media. Once a user completed or no longer wanted a game, they could resell it. Many businesses, such as Blockbuster and GameStop, have created stores and jobs based on this. However, Microsoft’s new policy will only allow for one person to own a game. By transferring ownership of a game unit, Microsoft will remotely wipe any data that the previous owner had of the game off their console. In summary, businesses should not be hindered by Microsoft's greed, consumers should not have to suffer such reprisal for exchanging video game units, and the added ecological cost of producing extra video game units (whereas one could previously purchase a used game unit) will negatively impact the environment and produce extra waste. Also, add insult to injury, Microsoft also intends to charge a fee to transfer a game unit from one user to another.

2.) The 'Xbox One' requires daily internet access in order to function. This further hinders ownership rights on the basis that 'Xbox One' units might not be used in locations with internet access readily available. Many locations throughout the rural United States and around the world do not have high speed internet readily available, and many simply cannot afford it. If one wishes to play 'Xbox One' in the remote regions of Antarctica, they should be able to do so. This policy is socioeconomically prejudicial.

3.) A Kinect unit that plays the role of Big Brother.  As if a parody straight out of George Orwell's '1984', the 'Xbox One' is equipped with a mandatory Kinect device that monitors the user during use, and continuously monitors the user’s audio as well. Although unconfirmed, there are reports that Microsoft will design the 'Xbox One' to function differently based on how many people the Kinect detect in the room (for example, charging more for streaming a movie if there are more people in the room). The device will not function if the Kinect unit is not connected. This is a blatant violation of the user’s right to privacy.


If Microsoft will consider our grievances and make the respective changes accordingly, we will consider purchasing Microsoft's new product 'Xbox One'. However, as of now, Microsoft has shown utter disdain for its customers with the release of sub par hardware and software (i.e. Windows 8).