Microsoft today announced a newly designed Xbox 360 Wireless controller, available beginning in November. The Microsoft Xbox 360 controller gets revamped with several new design features, most notably a “transforming D-pad.” By turning the directional pad 90 degrees, the Xbox 360 controller can be set to “disc” or “plus” D-pad form. This should offer improved gameplay from the current Xbox 360 Wireless Controller design, which players (myself included) were not too fond of.
Here is Microsoft’s description of the unique D-pad design, and why you should consider the controller upgrade for your gaming:
“Select the traditional plus for distinct cardinal direction movement in games like “Halo: Reach” to change weapons and perform complicated combinations and deadly finishing moves in “Street Fighter” games, or rotate the D-pad to the disc format for sweeping motions in games such as “Pro Evolution Soccer 2011.” Choose your favorite controller set-up and experience unrivaled precision for all Xbox 360 games.”
A quick rundown of the new features you’ll find on this Xbox 360 controller:
- Transforming D-Pad for “Plus” or “Disc” control
- Matte Silver color
- Grey A, B, X, Y buttons
- Concave analog sticks
You can see a video from Microsoft’s Major Nelson here demonstrating the new Xbox 360 Wireless controller. The controller will come packaged in a Play & Charge Kit for its debut, which includes a charging cable and rechargeable battery pack.
Watch for the “Xbox 360 Wireless Controller with Play & Charge Kit – with Transforming D-pad” in stores starting November 9, 2010 for $64.99 MSRP. See more details on the Special Edition Xbox 360 Wireless Controller with Transforming D-pad here on xbox.com.
UPDATE: Pre-orders of the new Xbox 360 controller are now available here on Amazon.com.
Source – Microsoft Press release
