In an unexpected partnership that bypasses Microsoft, 8BitDo has revealed its first wireless controller designed specifically for Xbox, created in celebration of Rare's 40th anniversary. This exclusive accessory, boasting a striking gold and blue color scheme, integrates numerous subtle tributes to the acclaimed game studio. Retailing at $89.99, the controller offers advanced features like Hall Effect joysticks and impulse triggers, along with versatile connectivity, aiming to provide a premium and personalized gaming experience for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
The newly released 8BitDo Ultimate 3-mode Controller for Xbox, officially dubbed the \"Rare 40th Anniversary Edition,\" provides flexible connectivity solutions for gamers. It can be linked to an Xbox console via a 2.4GHz wireless dongle or a traditional USB-C cable. For broader compatibility, the controller also supports Bluetooth, allowing seamless connection to various mobile devices. This multi-mode functionality underscores 8BitDo's commitment to delivering adaptable gaming peripherals.
This special edition controller from Rare and 8BitDo is built upon the foundation of 8BitDo's acclaimed Ultimate three-mode controller. It incorporates the same advanced Hall Effect joysticks, renowned for their precision and resistance to stick drift, and Xbox-style impulse triggers, which provide haptic feedback during gameplay. A notable inclusion are two interchangeable silicone joystick caps, designed to delight long-time Rare fans: one shaped like a skull from the popular game Sea of Thieves, and another a jigsaw puzzle piece, immediately recognizable from the iconic Banjo-Kazooie series. Furthermore, the controller features a tactile D-pad crafted from a robust zinc alloy, complementing the luxurious gold theme.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this controller offers extensive customization capabilities. Users can store up to three distinct profiles, allowing for personalized button remapping and precise adjustment of the two programmable back buttons located on the rear. The comprehensive 8BitDo Ultimate software facilitates these modifications, enabling users to fine-tune trigger ranges and motor intensity, modify vibration levels, and calibrate each joystick for optimal control, ensuring a tailored and responsive gaming experience.
Powering this advanced device is a 1,000mAh rechargeable battery, which 8BitDo estimates provides approximately 20 hours of gameplay on a single charge. Recharging the battery to full capacity takes around four hours. A convenient integrated charging dock is included with the controller, ensuring that it is always ready for use. This dock also features an automatic re-connection function, allowing the controller to instantly link up with your device once removed from its charging cradle.
The collaboration between Rare, a Microsoft-owned gaming studio, and 8BitDo for this anniversary controller is particularly noteworthy, especially given Microsoft's current hiatus in accepting new orders for its own custom Xbox Design Lab controllers. This unexpected alliance highlights 8BitDo's growing prominence in the gaming peripheral market and provides a unique collectible for Rare enthusiasts. The controller is now available for purchase, offering a blend of nostalgic design and modern functionality.
