With Xbox Series X/S preorders here, it has been announced that Microsoft’s two next-generation consoles will launch with three controller designs. Xbox has been going through a rebranding campaign, with much of the new image focused on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, cloud streaming, and first-party exclusivity. Part of Microsoft’s plans to facilitate the latter has been to acquire several developers and meld them into the Xbox portfolio, the most recent of which includes The Elder Scrolls and Fallout developer, Bethesda Softworks, and its parent company, ZeniMax Media.
A question that lingered on fans’ minds when the Xbox Series X was revealed was whether Xbox One accessories, such as controllers – would be compatible with the next-generation console. Xbox Game Studios has since confirmed players will be able to use their Xbox One controllers with the Series X, including the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2. However, this backwards compatibility in terms of accessories hasn’t prevented the Xbox team from coming up with new ideas for the next generation.
With the next-generation’s launch date approaching, the Xbox team has announced the Xbox Series X and S are launching with three controller designs in addition to the default carbon black (Xbox Series X) and Robot White (Xbox Series S). The first new design is an Xbox Wireless Controller colored blue – called Shock Blue – which features a black D-Pad, black ABXY buttons with blue lettering, and a white rear case. The remaining two options were created with PC players in mind.
Both options are bundles, the first of which consists of the carbon black controller and a wireless adapter for Windows 10, while the second is comprised of the carbon black controller and a USB-C cable for plug-and-play functionality on PC. The controllers also connect to PCs via Bluetooth. Xbox is also offering a new rechargeable battery and USB-C cable bundle, claiming the new con can be fully charged in less than four hours. All three controllers feature new textured grips, bumpers, and triggers, as well as a hybrid D-Pad for better diagonal and sweep control.
Accessories have become as important to gamers as the games themselves. Gone are the days when simply using the default controller and playing was the status quo. Now, having an accessory, such as the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller or a high-end gaming mouse, is as pivotal to maximizing fans’ competitive streaks and pulling ahead. Moreover, the appearance of those accessories are as important to fans as their functionality and reliability, for few people want to use equipment they think is unsightly – it would defeat enjoyment of the novelty.
The Shock Blue won’t appeal to everyone, but at least Microsoft is staying consistent in its drive to rebrand Xbox’s image and reassert itself as a relevant, competitive force in the gaming industry. Sony’s PlayStation 4 destroyed the Xbox One in terms of sales from the beginning of the current generation, and much of that had to do with first-party exclusives. Couple Xbox’s push to acquire more developers to up its first-party content with fresh ideas on controller designs while also continuing to promote subscription deals, such as Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, and Microsoft may find itself slowly closing the gap with Sony.
Xbox Series X/S launches on November 10, 2020 and preorders are available now.
Source: Xbox