Xbox’s New October Controller Explained

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As a seasoned gamer with over two decades of gaming under my belt, I must say that Xbox has always been a step ahead when it comes to controller designs. The new Ghost Cipher controller for the Xbox Series X is yet another testament to their innovative approach.

A fresh Xbox Series X controller is coming soon, expanding the ‘Cipher’ collection. Notably, this Halloween-inspired Xbox Series X controller isn’t launching alone; it will be accompanied by others.

Special edition controllers have emerged as a significant strength for Xbox, showcased by their recent partnership with Deadpool and Wolverine among others. Although some of these custom-made controllers are distributed through sweepstakes, the buzz generated by these collaborations, along with the intricate designs, play a crucial role in Xbox’s marketing strategy. This is attributed to both the unique appeal of these limited-edition controllers and the iconic status of the Xbox controller, with its design from the Xbox 360 era being synonymous with gaming for many, due to its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Despite the Series X and One controllers not being as popular, the Xbox 360’s controller left an indelible mark on the gaming world.

Xbox’s Ghost Cipher Controller Explained

Approximately a week past, an article from Dealabs disclosed a translucent Xbox controller – and the whispers have proven accurate. Not only has the Ghost Cipher been unveiled, but it’s also been incorporated into Xbox Design Lab’s latest lineup of customizable controllers as part of their second series. Controllers designed in Series 2 now offer six transparent color options, whereas the Ghost Cipher is set for a standalone launch on October 8.

Everything There Is To Know About Ghost Cipher

As a gamer, I’m super excited about the Ghost Cipher Special Edition controller, which seems to be following in the footsteps of Xbox’s Sky Cipher predecessor. Just like its older sibling, it’s priced at $69.99. During the leak phase, we weren’t sure about its color, but now it’s confirmed that it’s see-through! The front shell is completely transparent, with gray joysticks, light gray/white buttons, a bronze D-Pad, and bronze triggers adding some contrast to the overall design.

The pre-order for Xbox’s upcoming Ghost Cipher gamepad is now open, revealing its specifications in advance. Similar to Sky Cipher, Ghost Cipher boasts a 40-hour battery life, a 3.5mm audio jack, wireless and Bluetooth capabilities, rubberized grips, and built-in rumble packs. With an October release date, it’s safe to say that Ghost Cipher could be considered a Halloween-themed accessory, or at least one that is closely associated with the spooky season.

The Cipher Series Is Now Available In Xbox Design Lab

Leaks surrounding Xbox’s Ghost Cipher controller were right on the money, but the implementation of the Cipher series in Xbox Design Lab is a whole new discovery. The shells here aren’t as expansive as Ghost Cipher or Sky Cipher, with the transparent aspect ending before the grips, but they can be implemented onto entirely customizable controllers. However, fans will have to pay a pretty penny for these controllers; Series 1 orders started at $69.99, whereas Series 2 has $149.99 as a minimum—over twice as much.

Similar to how Series 1 of Xbox Design Lab offered six Vapor bases, Series 2 provides six clear Cipher shell components. Ghost Cipher is included in this selection, but notably missing is the deep blue of Sky Cipher. The other color options available are Velocity Cipher (dark green), Astral Cipher (purple), Surf Cipher (light blue), Candy Cipher (pink), and Pulse Cipher (red). As per Xbox’s announcement, these transparent colors aim to emulate the see-through controllers popular in the ’90s and early 2000s.

Alongside the given color codes for ciphers, fans now have an additional option: the introduction of two new color schemes for D-Pad and paddle designs, Energy Chroma and Sunset Chroma, as part of Series 2. With Xbox Design Lab, gamers can personalize their controllers even further by adding extra thumbsticks, D-Pads, and paddles. Additionally, a feature is available that offers access to 3D printable files for adaptive thumbstick covers.

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2024-09-26 23:43