WORLD NEWS

Hoping to clear up confusion surrounding its next video game console, Microsoft has shared new details on how features such as used games will work on the Xbox One.

Through a series of posts published Thursday, Microsoft discusses several features that have served as points of concern to video game players, including the role of pre-owned titles and whether the device will require a persistent online connection.

Microsoft says Xbox One titles will launch in physical and digital forms on the same day, and players can access those games on any Xbox One console through the cloud.

Players can also establish a family of up to 10 members that can explore a shared games library and play any title they choose from any console.

Microsoft also says players can resell or trade older titles -- no fees required -- at participating retailers. However, it appears there will be some limitations in sharing games. According to a post on game licensing, users can offer a one-time gift of a select title to a friend, so long as they've been on their Xbox Live friends list for at least 30 days.

The company also says loaning and renting Xbox One games "won't be available at launch, but we are exploring the possibilities with our partners."

As for online features, the Xbox One will not require a persistent connection, but will allow players to enjoy a game offline for up to 24 hours before requiring an online check. When logged into another device, Xbox One will perform hourly online checks.

While the new information from Microsoft provides some clarity into their stance on used games and online components, several questions still persist. What role do digital titles have in the used games marketplace? How will the "family" structure work? What happens when technology used to perform online Xbox One checks don't work, or get shut down?

The used games market continues to stoke heated debate within the video game industry. They benefit consumers seeking games that cost less than the standard $60 price tag, but publishers have grown frustrated by the inability to make money off these sales. There's also fear used games hurt the sales of new titles.

Microsoft will likely share more information at next week's Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) in Los Angeles.