: I'm with you, They already had the whole digital sharing thing implemented
: into the console. To think that they wouldn't offer it as a alternative
: later down the line seems silly.

The only problem with having the simultaneous models is that really they're mutually exclusive. Features of both can't coexist with the other. For one, developers then can't rely on a standard model across all user systems (no more every-user-is-a-connected-user, eg), and two there'd be no way to enforce the DRM with the online model while having offline users exist - that or the systems themselves would be incompatible. And then, do they lock a user into one model for the lifetime of their console and/or profile? Users would riot again. Or do they allow switching back and forth to whatever degree? DRM then becomes pointless. It would require loads of more rules and settings and restrictions and complications...

It would be nice to have one or the other, but as others have been saying, both models have benefits and drawbacks. Ironically, I'd say the only thing that makes this decision "good" is that they've proven they listen to their customers. But that can even be flipped around as people are still using it as a reason to hate on the brand. Damned if you do, damned if you don't, really. (according to some, not everyone of course).

I guess I'm pretty indifferent to the 180 decision as I would've been perfectly happy either way :)