Microsoft announced both the Xbox One S and Project Scorpio during the company’s E3 press conference earlier this week. Along with the new consoles, Microsoft also revealed there will be an updated controller releasing alongside the Xbox One S that features a few changes and tweaks from the current models. After giving the controller a quick test, it definitely has my interest as the next one I want to get.
While largely the same, the biggest changes coming to the next controller are internal. The wireless range will be twice that of the controllers already available, and the new controller will finally support Bluetooth. This means you can more easily use your Xbox One S controller with a PC, phone or tablet (and of course, the Xbox One, Xbox One S and Project Scorpio consoles). This fits in with Microsoft’s new Play Anywhere initiative, encouraging gamers to live the Xbox lifestyle regardless of platform.
As for physical differences, the Xbox One S controller most closely resembles the Lunar White controller. The back is textured like the Lunar White controller, which may sound silly but does feel nice under the fingers. If you have as naturally sweaty hands as I do, the textured grip does actually help as well.
The biggest change I noticed was up by the Home button. The Xbox circle button has always felt almost separate from the rest of the controller, sitting deep in a recessed area. With the redesign, the recessed area is much more sloped and contoured, making the controller feel more cohesive.
I normally play with the headset adapter attached to the bottom of my controller (because I have the original Xbox One controller design), and noticed the Xbox One S controller felt a little lighter than the previous offerings.
All in all, the Xbox One S is not a must-buy upgrade for every Xbox One gamer. If you want to jump between your Xbox and PC or phone, the Bluetooth capabilities do make it much more attractive than other controllers, and the different design could win over a few converts. If you’re looking to replace an old controller or get a second one, the Xbox One S should definitely be the first on your list.
So what do you think? Are you interested in trying out the new Xbox One S controller? Will you use the cool new creation?
