What's left for Microsoft to pull a 180 on? We've got 15 theories

Xbox One-Eighty

It can happen at any moment. It may be now, tomorrow, next month--but as it stands, anything you think you know about the Xbox One could change. Microsoft has given us a firm launch date--(November 22nd--but a lot can happen in the two-and-a-half months between then and now. With all the backtracking Microsoft has already made on its next-generation console, there's no telling what uncertainties may still lie in the Xbone's future.

To put your mind at ease, we've hired some of the world's top analysts and market researchers to predict the next Xbox One-related turnabout. For better or for worse, these about-face changes are all but guaranteed to occur before the November 22nd release date; all that's left to do now is prepare for them. If these 100%-factually-accurate changes sway your purchasing decision, we recommend that you buy/cancel your Xbox One pre-order as soon as possible.

Severed Kinection

The status quo: Plugging in the Kinect 2.0 camera was a requirement for using the Xbox One when it was originally revealed, meaning it would be in a constant state of use whether the console was on or off, worrying gamers that their privacy was being violated by a constant recording of living room data. Thankfully, Microsoft eventually decided that you would be able to use the system sans ever-watching eye.

Xbox: Go home

The status quo: With the Kinect 2.0 plugged in, the plan is to make the Xbox One voice-activated at all times. By voicing the words "Xbox on" anywhere in the console's vicinity, the system would actually start up on command.

The hypothetical 180: Gamers worry that they'll inadvertently activate their new console during casual conversation within earshot of the Kinect. To ensure that such a social faux pas never occurs, Microsoft gives each individual system its own identification code. Now, when you want to power up your console, all you need to do is state your unique code and instructions. For instance: "Xbox 9-1-5-6-2-3-4-6-2-1-5-6-9-7-8-8-8-8-2-0 on."

Always on schedule, never online

The status quo: As a precautionary measure of DRM, the Xbox One was slated to require an Internet connection every 24 hours. After an onslaught of negative feedback, Microsoft scaled back the internet requirement to the first time you activate the system.

Getting it backwards

The status quo: The Xbox One is not backwards compatible, meaning the games in your 360 library won't work in any next-gen console.

For the windie

The status quo: Indie studios will not be able to self-publish, and will have to release their games with the help of a publishing company. Microsoft reneges, instituting the Independent Developers @ Xbox system to allow indies to manage their own products and earnings.

Used world order

The status quo: Microsoft looks to kill off the video game aftermarket, giving publishers the power to block used games. But after being ridiculed by a viral Sony video, Microsoft pledged that used games will work on the Xbox One just as they do on the 360.

Day none

The status quo: For those who reserve it in advance, a "Day One" edition of the Xbox One is available. Early adopters will be rewarded with an exclusive achievement and a controller with the words "DAY ONE 2013" slapped onto the middle of it.

Format wars

The status quo: The design of the Xbox One framework is mocked for looking exactly like a Betamax at a distance.

Points of contention

The status quo: To the relief of confused gamers everywhere, Microsoft announces that transactions on Xbox One have done away with the virtual Microsoft Points currency.

Twitch reaction

The status quo: Livestreaming your gameplay directly to Twitch.tv is now an integrated function of the Xbox One.

Friending it all

The status quo: The restrictive 100-friend limit of the Xbox 360's Live service is now expanded to a generous 1,000.

Disc-gusting

The status quo: The Xbox One will be able to read Blu-Ray discs, causing movie buffs and pornography aficionados to rejoice.

Console your obsolete console

The status quo: Playing Xbox One games will require an Xbox One.

One Mattrick pony

The status quo: Don Mattrick jumps ship, ditching Microsoft for a cushy job at Zynga after a tirade of hatred from the gaming community.

The Final 180

The status quo: On November 22nd, the Xbox One will launch for $500.

Throwing it in reverse

Now that you know what the future holds, will you ever trust Microsoft again? Then again, all they're doing is giving you exactly what you wanted, and you hate them for it. You monster. Do you have any completely credible predictions about the Xbox One's remaining flip-flop potential? By all means, share them in the comments below--that way, you can tell your friends "I told you so" when your predictions come true.