You're only considering the two extremes. When it comes to rumors, the truth usually ends up somewhere in the middle.
Maybe there will be some sort of online DRM, but not for 100% of games. This would be like what Sony announced for the PS4 when they said that DRM will be left up to each individual publisher.
Or, the console could be designed for "always on", but it may not be implemented at first. MS & other publishers could play wait-an...
It all comes down to what they actually release in the end. Remember, big name games don't need much publicity. Titles like Halo, Uncharted, Gears, God of War, Forza, & Gran Turismo sell themselves. All they need is a quick mention to let the fans know they're coming.
On the other hand, newer games (especially casual ones) need as much publicity as possible because they're not as well known to the general public.
The amount of time that a d...
If it keeps people's attention away from McDonald's and Wendy's, then it is a good strategy.