You're presuming there will be games for which the only online requirement is this annoying check-in. If there were, why would a developer -not- release on an alternate console, if that console would support the game? But if there are other online requirements (presumably the reason the developer chose to release on XBO) then you'd be online anyway.

: I want to be able to play the games that the 360 won't be able to handle, but
: I don't want to have to change my approach to my gaming. It's like to buy
: a new, better book from your favorite author, I have to only sit one
: specific, uncomfortable corner of my room to read it. And I have to be
: upside down the whole time.

Right, and that's understandable (per my prev comment(s)) - it's not just being able to play on an Xbox console, it's the strong loyal desire to play the same way on the newest generation level and within the same console brand.

I would LOVE to see a chart breaking down the market and demographics for such users (let's call them 'loyal') and whether XBO is a feasible upgrade (apart from rejection on principle, and based on access to any form of 1/24hr internet check-in and price point). It's probably hidden in some dark, dank corner of the Microsoft basement, with "Levi" in the cut segment with a sincere little frowny face.

;)
(no really, I wasn't being sarcastic; more like I think they see that little segment as a painful but necessary evil)

: I just wish there was an offline model of the ONE. Then I'd be happy. For
: now, the equivalent hardware is a PS4. It's the only thing that's going to
: let me read that better book anywhere I please.

And yeah, that's probably your best choice if 360 is no longer enough for you now with a new generation level of gaming hardware.

: I've never bought a console when it first premiered (actually, I've never
: bought a new console ever - I got the 360 as a Christmas present back in
: high school). I was referring to the money to always have internet access,
: as well as only buying new games (unless the whole used games thing is
: clarified better).

Man, I'm really starting to feel sorry for you... you are such an awesome and beloved community member, and yet your gaming/online capabilities really seemingly leave much to be desired. You deserve better! =/

: I have an Xbox Live account, but I don't always have internet (or at least
: have easy access for the Xbox). I buy mostly used games. I like playing
: some games online, but not most of them. I dislike the idea of being
: connected all the time. And I have annoying principles. These descriptions
: all worked on the 360, but for the new generation, they'll only work on
: the PS4. :)

First, constantly saying it that way (bolded above) is one of the causes of all this confusion. XBO does not in any way require being connected all the time. They've stated that. I know the daily checkin could be considered that, but it's really not, and so that can easily be misunderstood. I think were the console actually required to be connected constantly, there would be FAR more backlash than there is (including from myself).
Just sayin...

And yeah, I'm sure MS realizes their direction will cause a large number of ship-jumpers. I think they're hoping it won't happen, but they'd be blinded and naive to not even consider the possibility.

For myself, I'm sure I'll be getting both, at some point. Tho with XBO having Bluray ability, I'm not sure how much my PS4 will be getting used apart from perhaps Destiny :P