The next-generation Xbox will not require an always-on internet connection for functions that you would expect to work in an offline environment - including single-player gaming.

That's the reassuring message of an allegedly leaked internal Microsoft memo reportedly emailed to full-time employees working on the next-generation console.
"Durango is designed to deliver the future of entertainment while engineered to be tolerant of today's Internet," read the memo, according to Ars Technica.

"There are a number of scenarios that our users expect to work without an Internet connection, and those should 'just work' regardless of their current connection status. Those include, but are not limited to: playing a Blu-ray disc, watching live TV, and yes playing a single player game."

This comes in contrast to the persistent and controversial rumour that Microsoft's new console will strictly require an always-on internet connection to function at all.

But it also backs up more recent reports that Durango's requirement of an internet connection is not as stringent as earlier reports had indicated.

If genuine, the memo additionally corroborates with rumours that the new console will feature a blu-ray drive, and be capable of receiving (via a HDMI input) and relaying a TV video feed with its own UI and functionality layered over that of your existing set-top box.

Microsoft will reveal its next-generation console at a special event on May 21.