If the report is true, and most of the layoffs are coming from the hardware and Android development teams that would not bode well for the idea of a Valve Steambox. But I think it could reinforce the idea that Valve will create the software and ecosystem for a steambox and rely on partners for the hardware side of things. Unless, of course the hardware division was working on specifications for a steambox to be produced by partners then that would mean that Valve is pulling away from the idea of a Steambox all together. lol Got to love speculation.
I hope they succeed but I feel like their ambition is exceeding what they have so far produced and that usually doesn't end well. This is their first console they've ever attempted to mass produce, and even though they are using Android they are still developing a new ecosystem to run the games so there is going to be a lot software issues that will take time to resolve. I feel like they need to work on iterating that once its live before they talk about releasing new hardware every year.
The part about Xbox Live being a integral part of the console is probably a 100% accurate, but I highly doubt that it will require a always on internet connection. But I wouldn't be surprised if Microsoft made it easier for individual video game makers to block second hand games. ie Its up to the publishers to decide if they want to block, and Microsoft just makes it easier for them to do it.
ummm Did Master Chief sound different because that did not sound like the Master Chief from the games. Overall, this is looking like it will be really bad. The acting/dialogue just looks poor. The costumes looks really bland/drab and their armor looks plasticy/shiny, the colors looked like different shades of grey/brown(even the forest/outside scenes looked dull) none of the vibrant colors you see in the actual game, and the plot seems to be playing a game of grab the cliche. This actually makes me happy the Halo movie was put on hiatus/canned.
I think there is a typo in your article you said " Reuters believes Tencent taking full ownership of Microsoft" By Microsoft you mean ActivisionBlizzard. Unless Tencent is large enough to buy Microsoft which would be interesting for a number of reasons. My best guess is that private equity will be the ones to buy ActivisionBlizzard.
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