Tag: Xbox Wireless Controller

  • 8BitDo Forza Xbox Charging Dock with Free Battery

    8BitDo Forza Xbox Charging Dock with Free Battery

    Key Takeaway

    – Forza Horizon 6-themed 8BitDo charging dock now available to buy
    – Fully charges Xbox controller in 3 hours with amber-to-white LED indicator
    – Includes 1,100mAh rechargeable battery, gray Forza battery door, and USB-C cable
    – Features adjustable LED brightness and a storage compartment
    – Priced at $34.99 on 8BitDo’s eShop and Amazon US, £31 on Amazon UK


    8BitDo Drops New Forza Dock

    Back in April, 8BitDo annouced a Forza Horizon 6-themed accessory for the Xbox Wireless Controller. The accessory, which is a charging dock, was available to pre-order following the announcement. Now, more then a month later, it is available to buy alongside wider availability.

    Officially Named and Compatible

    Officially called the 8BitDo Charging Dock for Xbox Wireless Controllers – Forza Horizon 6 Limited Edition is a magnetic charging dock for the Xbox wireless controllers for the Xbox Series S|X including the Xbox Wireless Gaming Controller Forza Horizon 6 Limited Edition.

    Charging Speeds and LED Features

    The dock will fully charge your Xbox controller in 3 hours. When fully charged, the LED charging indicator will change from amber to white. There’s a likelihood you’ll charge your controller just before bed, and if you have the dock on your nightstand, you can adjust the brightness of the charging LED using the button next to the USB-C port.

    Additional Items Included

    In addition to being a charging dock, it also comes with a 1,100mAh rechargeable battery, a gray Forza-branded battery door for your Xbox controller, and a USB-C cable. The 8BitDo Charging Dock for Xbox Wireless Controllers – Forza Horizon 6 Limited Edition also has a storage compartment where you can keep the spare battery, battery door, and other small accessories.

    Pricing and Availibility Options

    Priced at $34.99, the 8BitDo Charging Dock for Xbox Wireless Controllers – Forza Horizon 6 Limited Edition is available to buy now from 8BitDo’s eShop. It is also available to buy on Amazon US for the same $34.99 price, and on Amazon UK for £31.

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  • Where Winds Meet Hits Xbox with Rare Limited Controller

    Where Winds Meet Hits Xbox with Rare Limited Controller

    Key Takeaway

    – Where Winds Meet is now available on Xbox platforms (Series S/X, PC, Cloud) as of June 8, 2026.
    – A limited edition Xbox Wireless Controller was revealed, but it is not for sale—only 10 units will be given away via a contest.
    – Cross-platform save data transfer is supported if you previously played on mobile or PC and use the same account.
    – Characters created first on Xbox cannot be transferred or bound to other platforms.


    Xbox Games Showcase 2026 Surprise

    During the Xbox Games Showcase 2026, it was announced that the free-to-play action RPG game, Where Winds Meet is now available on Xbox. The game was already released for other platforms including the PS5 and PC (Steam and Epic) in 2024, and then Android and iOS in 2025. However, while the Xbox’s launch is quite late, it also brings along a limited edition Xbox Wireless Controller based on the video game.

    Controller Design and Collaboration

    The custom controller is a collaboration between Xbox and Everstone Studio, the Chinese developer behind the game. The Xbox Wireless Controller Where Winds Meet limited edition has a white faceplate. It also has the image of Jiang Yan/Uncle Jiang carrying the protagonist when they were a baby on the right grip. There’s the game’s logo in between the D-pad and right thumbstick, and a silhouette from the game is on the left side of the controller.

    Pricing and Availability Details

    It appears the Xbox Wireless Controller Where Winds Meet Edition will not be available to purchase as there’s no mention of pricing and availability. It is also not listed on the Xbox website. However, the game’s official X account has revealed that it will be giving away 10 units of the controller.

    Launch Details and Cross-Play

    Where Winds Meet is available starting today, June 8, on the Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, Xbox on PC, and Xbox Cloud. If you already have the game on a different platform, you can log in using the same account you use on your mobile or PC, so that your save data can be transferred to the Xbox. However, if you created your character on Xbox first, you will not be able to bind your account to other platforms.

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  • Microsoft quietly updates Xbox controller changes revealed

    Microsoft quietly updates Xbox controller changes revealed

    Key Takeaway

    – New Xbox controllers appear to be shipping without the expansion port, replaced by a sealed plastic cover.
    – The port’s removal mainly affects legacy accessories (headset adapters, chatpads) and users with older or specialized gear; wireless, USB-C, and standard 3.5 mm headset users are largely unaffected.
    – Microsoft has not confirmed the change; it’s unclear if the port removal will be permanent across all future models or limited to certain batches/editions.
    – Some older special editions (e.g., DOOM: The Dark Ages) may still be available with the expansion port, offering a potential workaround for interested buyers.


    Microsoft is not only working on a new Xbox controller, but also seems to be quietly modifying the current model – and not necessarily to users’ benefit. Newly produced versions of the popular Xbox controller appear to be losing the so-called expansion port. The change was spotted by a Reddit user, who found only a sealed plastic cover on his new Forza Horizon 6 Special Edition controller (the game is featured in Notebookcheck’s benchmark test), exactly where the expansion port would normally be located.

    Expansion port history and function

    The expansion port was previously positioned on the underside of the Xbox controller, right next to the 3.5 mm headphone jack. It was originally introduced to connect accessories directly to the controller. Typical use cases included headset adapters and the chatpad – a small clip-on keyboard designed to make typing messages easier. For many players, losing the port is unlikely to make much difference in everyday use. Anyone who uses the controller wirelessly, via USB-C or with a standard 3.5 mm headset will not lose any essential functionality. For users with older or more specialized accessories, however, the situation is different, which is why the reaction on Reddit has been largely critical.

    Current status and speculation

    Microsoft has not officially confirmed the removal of the expansion port so far. Current speculation suggests that newly manufactured batches of certain Xbox Wireless Controllers are affected. It remains unclear whether all future Xbox Wireless Controllers will ship without the port or whether the change will be limited to select editions. Anyone specifically looking for a model with the expansion port may still have luck with older special editions – such as the DOOM: The Dark Ages Limited Edition, which is currently available on Amazon for around $100.

     

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  • 8BitDo Launches Forza Horizon 6-Themed Charging Dock for Xbox Controllers

    8BitDo Launches Forza Horizon 6-Themed Charging Dock for Xbox Controllers

    Key Takeaway

    1. The 8BitDo Charging Dock is compatible with Xbox Series X|S controllers, including the Forza Horizon 6 Limited Edition, and features three pogo pins and magnets for secure charging.
    2. It offers adjustable ambient lighting for the LED indicator, which shows different colors when charging and fully charged.
    3. The package includes a free 1,100mAh NiMH rechargeable battery, a battery door, and a USB-C cable, with protective features like over-voltage and over-current protection.
    4. The dock is priced at $34.99 and pre-orders are available through the 8BitDo eShop, with shipping starting in early June 2026.

    Introduction to the Charging Dock

    If you are a gamer looking for a handy charging solution for your limited edition Xbox controller, then the 8BitDo Charging Dock are sure to be of interest to you. Its design is made especially for the Forza Horizon 6 Xbox Wireless Controller Limited Edition, but it can also work with other Xbox controllers, making it a versatile accessory for gamers. The dock was made through a partnership between three giants: 8BitDo, Xbox, and Forza Horizon 6, creating a well-integrated device for fans and players alike.

    Design and Functionality

    Now, this charging station is not just about charging, it also adds a cool vibe to your gaming set up. The dock uses three pogo pins to charge, which makes the connection strong and reliable, and two magnets hold your controller securely in place so you don’t worry about accidental falls. Besides, the dock includes a storage section that is perfect for keeping spare batteries, battery covers, or any small gaming accessories you might need close by.

    Special Features and Lighting

    One really interesting feature that got my attention is the customizable ambient lighting. There’s a small button next to the USB-C port that let’s you switch between two brightness levels of the LED indicator. When charging, the LED glows amber, and once it’s fully charged, it turns white, so you don’t have to guess if your controller is ready. This lighting toggle gives an extra personal touch and makes it more convenient for users.

    Safety Protections and Accessories

    This dock isn’t just about looks, it’s safety first. It includes multiple protections like over-voltage, over-charge, over-current, and over-heating to prevent damage to your controllers or batteries. For those who don’t have a rechargeable battery yet, the package includes a free 1,100mAh NiMH rechargeable battery, which is a good deal especially considering the affordable price point. If you do have a rechargeable battery, it’s still compatible as long as it fits and you use the provided USB-C cable for charging. The price of the dock is reasonable; at $34.99, it offers good value for a premium product.

    Availability and Pre-Order Details

    You can pre-order the 8BitDo Charging Dock on their official online store for $34.99. Shipping is scheduled to begin on June 8, 2026, slightly after the launch date of the Forza Horizon 6 Limited Edition Xbox Wireless Controller, which is also available for pre-order at around $89.99. This means collectors and gamers can secure their gear early and keep their controllers charged and ready for epic gaming sessions.

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  • GameSir Special Edition Xbox Wireless Controller Now on Amazon

    GameSir Special Edition Xbox Wireless Controller Now on Amazon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The GameSir G7 Pro Zenless Zone Zero Edition Wireless Controller for Xbox is now widely available on Amazon and the GameSir website for $129.99.

    2. The retail box includes the controller, an additional faceplate, a custom charging dock, a 2.4GHz wireless dongle, a carrying case, a 3m-long USB-C cable, two extra D-Pads, four pairs of thumbsticks, silicone thumbstick caps, an acrylic keychain, and in-game content cards.

    3. Key features include TMR joysticks, optical micro switch buttons for ABXY, Hall Effect triggers, remappable buttons, and an audio jack for PC connection.

    4. The controller is compatible with Xbox, PC, and Android, with Bluetooth connectivity for Android and a required 2.4GHz dongle for Xbox One and Xbox Series S|X.

    5. It supports motion control (PC only) and is compatible with GameSir Nexus software for additional customization.


    The GameSir G7 Pro Zenless Zone Zero Edition Wireless Controller for Xbox was revealed in September. Now, as shipping has begun this month after pre-orders were open since the announcement, GameSir is making it more widely available.

    Expanded Availability

    Besides being sold on the GameSir website, the GameSir G7 Pro Zenless Zone Zero Edition Wireless Controller for Xbox can now be found on Amazon. The price remains at $129.99, just like on the GameSir website. It also includes the same accessories and gifts as before.

    What’s Inside the Box

    The controller is presented in a unique retail box which contains the controller itself, an additional faceplate, a custom charging dock, a 2.4GHz wireless dongle, a carrying case, a 3m-long USB-C cable, and even an acrylic keychain.

    Moreover, there are two extra D-Pads with different designs, four pairs of thumbsticks, and four silicone thumbstick caps. It also includes a redemption card for in-game content related to Zenless Zone Zero and a one-month subscription card for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.

    Features and Compatibility

    The GameSir G7 Pro controller features TMR joysticks, optical micro switch buttons for ABXY, Hall Effect triggers with micro switch stops, and four buttons that can be remapped. An audio jack is available when the controller is connected to a PC. Additionally, it supports motion control (PC only) and works with GameSir Nexus software.

    This controller is not only compatible with Xbox and PC but also has support for Android, although it only connects via Bluetooth. For owners of Xbox One and Xbox Series S|X, the included 2.4GHz dongle is required to connect to the console, while PC users can opt for the dongle or a USB-C connection.

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  • Microsoft Launches New Fallout Pip-Boy Xbox Controllers Worldwide

    Microsoft Launches New Fallout Pip-Boy Xbox Controllers Worldwide

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft has released new Fallout-themed controllers for the Xbox, including the standard Xbox Wireless Controller and the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2.
    2. The controllers feature designs inspired by the Fallout universe, particularly the Pip-Boy device, with iconic green colors and HUD elements.
    3. Enhanced comfort is offered with a textured back casing and improved grips on the bumpers and triggers.
    4. Pre-orders for the standard Pip-Boy controller are available on Amazon and from Microsoft for a limited time.
    5. The standard Pip-Boy controller starts at $82.97, while the Elite Series 2 can cost up to $164.58, with personalization options available through the Xbox Design Lab.


    Microsoft has broadened its collection of themed controllers by introducing new special edition versions of the regular Xbox Wireless Controller and the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, currently priced at $129.99 on Amazon. The visuals clearly show that the latest offerings are inspired by the Fallout universe.

    Fallout-Inspired Designs

    Both controllers are marketed as the Pip-Boy Edition and showcase designs that are directly influenced by the Fallout franchise. For instance, they feature the iconic green colors of Fallout, along with HUD elements taken from the Pip-Boy device. Additionally, Microsoft has added a textured back casing to enhance comfort, which is further supported by improved grips on the bumpers and triggers.

    Pre-Order Details

    You can pre-order the standard Pip-Boy controller on Amazon and directly from Microsoft, but this offer is only available for a short period. Similar to other recent Xbox controller launches, the Pip-Boy Edition can be personalized with various Fallout-themed designs through the Xbox Design Lab. In contrast, the Elite Series 2 can only be acquired from Microsoft via the Xbox Design Lab. The pricing begins at $82.97 for the standard model and can go up to $164.58 for the Elite version. For more information, check out the Xbox website.

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  • Xbox Design Lab Introduces The Outer Worlds 2 Theme

    Xbox Design Lab Introduces The Outer Worlds 2 Theme

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox introduced game-themed designs to the Design Lab in 2024, starting with Fallout and Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, and expanding to include titles like Avowed and The Outer Worlds 2.

    2. The Outer Worlds 2 design is available for both the standard Xbox Wireless Controller and the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2.

    3. Customization options for the controller include back color, D-pad, buttons, thumbsticks, triggers, bumpers, grips, and the option for a custom engraved message.

    4. Pricing for a custom The Outer Worlds Xbox Wireless Controller starts at $98.97 for the standard model and $188.97 for the Elite model (without paddles).

    5. The Outer Worlds 2 is set to launch on October 29, 2025, and will be available on day one through Xbox Game Pass.


    In 2024, Xbox started to introduce game-themed designs to the Xbox Design Lab, kicking things off with Fallout followed by Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. This year, they have expanded the collection even more with new designs for Avowed, Helldivers, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Borderlands 4, Ninja Gaiden 4, and Hollow Knight: Silksong. The most recent addition to this lineup is The Outer Worlds 2, which is set to release later this month.

    Customizing Your Controller

    The design for The Outer Worlds 2 can be selected for both the standard Xbox Wireless Controller (currently priced at $54 on Amazon) and the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2. Customizing your own controller is really easy. You just need to visit the Xbox Design Lab website and decide whether you want to personalize a standard controller or the elite version. From the customization menu, choose The Outer Worlds 2 in the body section.

    Unique Features to Personalize

    There is only one pattern available for this design, so to make your controller unique, you can adjust other features like the back color, D-pad, ABXY buttons, thumbsticks, triggers, bumpers, grips, paddles, and the View, Menu, and Share buttons. Additionally, you can include a custom engraved message on the controller if you wish.

    Pricing Details

    A custom The Outer Worlds Xbox Wireless Controller starts at $98.97 for the standard model and is priced at $188.97 (without the paddles pack) for the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2.

    The Outer Worlds 2 is set to launch on October 29, 2025, for the Xbox Series S|X, PlayStation 5, and PC. It will be available on day one through Xbox Game Pass.

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  • Microsoft Unveils New Xbox Controllers for Upcoming Game Release

    Microsoft Unveils New Xbox Controllers for Upcoming Game Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft has released themed controllers for Ninja Gaiden 4, available only through the Xbox Design Lab.
    2. Customers can choose between the standard Xbox Wireless Controller and the Elite Series 2, featuring designs inspired by game characters.
    3. Customization options include metallic triggers, custom D-pads, and coordinated colors, but may incur additional costs.
    4. The Ninja Gaiden 4 Xbox Wireless Controller starts at $94.98, while the Elite Series 2 is priced at $184.98.
    5. Both controllers are available for purchase now, with the game launching on October 21.


    With only a few weeks left until the release of Ninja Gaiden 4, Microsoft has unveiled some new themed controllers to honor the upcoming action-adventure game. Interestingly, these controllers will only be available through the Xbox Design Lab platform, meaning they won’t be found in regular stores and will be pricier than previous themed controllers like the DOOM: The Dark Ages edition.

    Controller Options

    Customers can choose between the standard Xbox Wireless Controller and the Elite Series 2 in the Design Lab. Each controller boasts a stunning design that draws inspiration from the characters of Ninja Gaiden 4. The top case features the main character Yakumo’s Oni mask and his blue-handled katana on the left grip, while the right grip showcases Ryu Hayabusa’s striking red dragon sword.

    Customization Features

    One of the most exciting aspects of the Xbox Design Lab is the ability for buyers to personalize their controllers. Options include metallic triggers, custom D-pads, and coordinated colors for the buttons and sticks, although these features do come with an additional charge. The Ninja Gaiden 4 Xbox Wireless Controller starts at $94.98, which is about $14.99 more than other recent special editions, like the Breaker series. Meanwhile, the Elite Series 2 version is priced at $184.98.

    Availability and Launch Date

    Both the Ninja Gaiden 4 controllers are up for grabs starting today. The game itself is set to be released on October 21, and pre-orders are already available on the Xbox Store.

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  • Asus ROG Raikiri II Controller: Wireless Support for Xbox & PC

    Asus ROG Raikiri II Controller: Wireless Support for Xbox & PC

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tri-Mode Connectivity: The ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless Controller connects via 2.4GHz RF, Bluetooth, and wired USB-C, compatible with Xbox consoles and PCs.

    2. Advanced Joystick Technology: Features TMR joysticks for better energy efficiency and anti-drift capabilities, with a polling rate of 1,000Hz.

    3. Enhanced Triggers and Customization: Dual-mode triggers and four programmable back buttons for improved gameplay, along with customizable RGB LEDs.

    4. User-Friendly Design: Micro-switch buttons and an anti-slip texture for better grip, with a battery life of up to 30 hours in 2.4GHz mode (without certain features on).

    5. Included Accessories: Comes with a protective case, charging stand, a 3m USB-C to USB-A cable, and detachable joystick caps.


    Asus has unveiled its latest gaming controller, the ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless Controller. This announcement happened during Gamescom 2025, and this new model serves as the upgrade to the wired Raikiri controller that came out in 2023.

    Connectivity Features

    The ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless Controller features tri-mode connectivity, similar to the 8BitDo Ultimate 3-mode Wireless Controller for Xbox Rare 40th Anniversary Edition, which can be found on Amazon for $89.99. This means it can connect using 2.4GHz RF, Bluetooth, and wired USB-C.

    According to Asus, users can link the controller to Xbox consoles (Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One) using the supplied 2.4GHz dongle or a USB-C cable. It is also compatible with PCs running on Windows 10 and 11, and the ROG Xbox Ally via the same connection methods: 2.4GHz, Bluetooth, or wired USB-C.

    Advanced Technology

    The Raikiri II Xbox Wireless Controller features TMR joysticks, which Asus claims are more energy-efficient compared to Hall Effect joysticks and provide excellent anti-drift capabilities. The controller boasts a polling rate of 1,000Hz for wired and 2.4GHz wireless modes, with Asus highlighting an improvement in the 2.4GHz mode due to its ROG SpeedNova Wireless technology, though details on its functionality remain unclear.

    This new version comes with dual-mode triggers that can easily switch between micro-switch triggers and TMR sensor triggers to enhance gameplay experience. Like its predecessor, the Raikiri II Xbox Wireless Controller includes programmable back buttons, but now features four buttons instead of just two. Additionally, it has customizable RGB LEDs and an audio jack that works seamlessly with Xbox and PCs.

    Design and Accessories

    The ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless Controller is equipped with micro-switch buttons for the D-pad, ABXY buttons, and bumpers, while its handles have a skin-friendly anti-slip texture for improved grip. Users can expect up to 30 hours of use in 2.4GHz mode, assuming vibration, audio, and RGB lighting are all turned off.

    Furthermore, the controller comes with a protective case that allows charging while stored. It also includes a charging stand, a 3m USB-C to USB-A cable, and two detachable joystick caps. Asus has yet to provide any information regarding the price or when it will be available for purchase.

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  • Asus ROG Raikiri II Xbox Controller with TMR Joysticks and 1KHz Rate

    Asus ROG Raikiri II Xbox Controller with TMR Joysticks and 1KHz Rate

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless controller connects wirelessly to Xbox, unlike its predecessor, the Raikiri Pro, which requires a wired USB connection.
    2. The controller features a new design with an RGB ROG logo, off-center joysticks, and a redesigned Xbox button but lacks an OLED display.
    3. It includes TMR joysticks to reduce stick drift and improve precision, along with a high polling rate of 1,000 Hz for better responsiveness.
    4. Additional features include an audio jack and back buttons, but battery life and other specifications have not been revealed yet.
    5. Price and release date are still unknown, but it is expected to be more expensive than the 8BitDo Ultimate 3-mode Wireless Controller for Xbox Rare 40th Edition priced at $89.99.


    Following a hint that was shared a few days ago, Asus’s ROG sub-brand has unveiled its latest controller. Named the ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless, this new device connects wirelessly to an Xbox, unlike the Raikiri Pro wireless controller which only works through a wired USB link with an Xbox.

    A Fresh Look

    The ROG Raikiri II sports a new design compared to its first version. It maintains the sleek all-black color and the off-center joysticks, but the Raikiri II features a glowing RGB ROG logo instead of the old RGB light bar. Additionally, the ABXY buttons have lost their color, and the round Xbox button is now designed like a shield and is positioned higher up. However, it still lacks an OLED display, which is found on the Raikiri Pro. It seems Asus is keeping that as a premium feature, similar to its ROG smartphones.

    Enhanced Features

    Asus claims that the ROG Raikiri II incorporates TMR joysticks that take the place of the analog sticks found in earlier models. These TMR joysticks help minimize stick drift and provide better precision. Moreover, the controller boasts a polling rate of 1,000 Hz, enhancing responsiveness.

    While details on battery life and other specifications are still under wraps, the initial teaser revealed that the controller includes an audio jack and back buttons. Asus has not yet disclosed the price or release date for the controller. Nevertheless, we suspect it will be priced higher than the 8BitDo Ultimate 3-mode Wireless Controller for Xbox Rare 40th Edition, which is currently listed on Amazon for $89.99.

    Stay Tuned for Updates

    Make sure to keep an eye on Asus’s social media for the latest information on the ROG Raikiri II. As the launch date approaches, more details will likely emerge, including pricing and availability.

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