High-end redesign of the XBOX wireless controller features customisable triggers, textured and replaceable pads, hair trigger lock and even a headphone port.
High-end redesign of the XBOX wireless controller features customisable triggers, textured and replaceable pads, hair trigger lock and even a headphone port.
Plenty was announced at Microsoft‘s E3 press event, much of which was exclusive to the XBOX One, but one major new piece of hardware was unveiled which will be compatible with Windows PCs – the wireless Elite controller.
Based on the XBOX One but with a number of core design modifications based on player feedback and the ever increasing complexity of next-generation games, the Elite aims to be the go-to controller for high-level console gaming, as well as the most capable controller for the PC platform. Some of the features include:
– Removable reverse-side paddles, obviously inspired by the paddle-type gear selectors on steering wheels.
– Swappable joystick nubs & D-Pad, for those who prefer different textures or grip-levels in specific games.
– Soft-touch coating. Similar to those found on mice and some chassis, this surface is ‘grippier’ and slightly more sweat-resistant than smooth plastic.
– A new textured pad that’s interchangable with the d-pad, allowing for higher analogue precision.
– Hair-trigger control for fast-past action requiring even faster response times.
– Swappable joystick nubs & D-Pad, for those who prefer different textures or grip-levels in specific games.
– Soft-touch coating. Similar to those found on mice and some chassis, this surface is ‘grippier’ and slightly more sweat-resistant than smooth plastic.
– A new textured pad that’s interchangable with the d-pad, allowing for higher analogue precision.
– Hair-trigger control for fast-past action requiring even faster response times.
The Elite controller can also be hooked up to PCs and consoles via a high-speed USB cable for low-latency wired gameplay, complementing wirless functionality. It will also ship with an app and on-board firmware to reassign buttons and configure profiles; macros will however not be a part of the controller’s base functionality due to concerns over cheating.
Finally, and in common with the refreshed basic XBOX One controller, the Elite will come with a standard 3.5mm headset port.
All the above features go hand in hand with more rugged construction methods to guarantee long-term durability. The Elite claims compatibility with Windows 10, but hopefully additional drivers will be released to unlock compatibility with Windows 7 and 8.1 PC systems. It will be released this October worldwide, priced at $149.99.
Images via @MajorNelson
