This week, a number of outlets seemed to be making a big fuss over a supposedly new, mandatory update that Microsoft was implementing on new Xbox 360 game discs to make sure owners are switching over to the latest dashboard, called the New Xbox Experience. However, since the beginning, not only have users who sign into Xbox Live been required to update to the latest software, but Microsoft also says that it's been standard protocol all along to include the latest system software on retail game discs.
A Microsoft spokesperson told GameDaily BIZ: "It has always been standard protocol for Microsoft to include the latest version of the Xbox 360 dashboard on game discs. This is not unique to the New Xbox Experience update. To enhance platform security, Xbox 360 owners who are not connected to Xbox LIVE will have their consoles updated to the current system software from game discs they purchase at retail. The New Xbox Experience which launched in November 2008 is now included on new Xbox 360 game discs."
Media reports pegged MLB 2K9 and H.A.W.X. as the first titles to include the NXE software on the disc, but it seems that all new games will come with it.