A big portion of the Xbox Series X/S branding is giving users' a wide variety of controller options. With the latest controller announcement, the family of Xbox Series X/S compatible controllers grows even larger.
Since the Xbox One era, Microsoft has made a point about the way players actually play games on its systems. There is the sleek Elite Controller, that while lacking visual customization options, is one of the greatest controllers ever, with its brilliant design and additional buttons. After being shut down in 2020, Microsoft also recently relaunched its Design Lab, allowing users to customize Series X controllers to their hearts content with a multitude of colors and personalization options. It seems like despite the presence of this service line, Microsoft still plans to release special edition controllers as well.
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In a new Xbox Wire post, Microsoft unveiled its latest special edition controller, the Aqua Shift Special Edition. Will Tuttle, the Wire Editor in Chief, writes, "Inspired by the fantasy that gaming brings into our lives, we know this mystical beauty will add that magic your controller collection needs." As the name indicates, the controller is themed after water with every component from the buttons to the triggers being some shade of blue, including a shimmering effect across the controller's face. This stands in heavy contrast to the previous special edition controllers, like the neon yellow Electric Volt, whose face was a simple solid matte finish.
According to the post, these controllers are also a first of their kind for the Xbox family of Special Edition controllers. On the controller handles are rubberized side grips that allow for a more tactile experience and greater handle of the controller. Furthermore, every controller will be unique in that the dual color swirl printed on the rubberized grips is special to every controller and never duplicated. Compared to the rest of the Xbox Series line of controllers, the Aqua Shift is clearly in a league of its own.
It was at first peculiar that Microsoft would announce a special edition controller after also relaunching the Design Lab service. One might wonder why anyone would buy the Aqua Shift when they can simply create their own unique controller through the Design Lab. However, the secret lies in special offerings of the controller: the prismatic face plate and the rubberized grips. Although there are an endless number of combinations in the Design Lab, there are controller features that can only be found in the Aqua Shift.
The Xbox Series X/S Aqua Shift Special Edition controller is available for pre-order today for $69.99.
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Source: Xbox Wire
