Xbox Controllers Shine Amid PS5 Pro Launch Chaos

In the gaming world, the controller battle between Xbox and PlayStation remains a hot topic, particularly in light of the recent events surrounding the PS5 Pro pre-order launch. As we continue to recover from the chaos of yesterday’s launch, it’s clear that the gaming community is both excited and frustrated. The limited 30th Anniversary bundles were snatched up in record time, with all 12,300 units disappearing almost instantly. Unsurprisingly, many of these sought-after bundles have made their way to resale platforms like eBay, where they are fetching thousands of dollars. Meanwhile, the standard PS5 Pro is still available for purchase on Sony’s official website, and I’m relieved to say I secured one for its November release. This decision, however, feels somewhat absurd considering I already own several high-end gaming PCs. The pull of consumerism is strong, and I’m not entirely immune to its charms, even if I’m trying to work on it.

My hopes for the PS1-themed Portals and a legacy gray DualSense controller were dashed, as I wasn’t quick enough to secure either. While the nostalgic PS1 aesthetics are undeniably appealing, I can’t help but bemoan Sony’s apparent lack of creativity in special edition controllers. Frankly, this trend extends to other areas as well, but I’ll refrain from diving into that discussion for now. If there’s one standout among Sony’s recent offerings, it would be the Astro Bot DualSense controller, which I believe is their most innovative release to date. Even it, however, pales in comparison to the new innovations Microsoft continues to unveil for Xbox controllers.

This week, Microsoft introduced a stunning new limited edition wireless controller called Ghost Cipher, alongside some exciting enhancements to its Xbox Design Lab. The absence of a similar customization option on PlayStation’s end is baffling and somewhat frustrating, especially given the creative opportunities it presents. The Ghost Cipher controller features a completely clear top casing that showcases its intricate internal components, paired with Ash Gray rubberized grips and a striking bronze d-pad, complemented by matching triggers. The design exudes a sense of style that doesn’t rely on game branding or unnecessary markings—it stands out on its own merit.

Moreover, the Xbox Design Lab has recently been updated to include translucent options for the Elite Wireless Controller Series 2. The addition of iridescent Chroma d-pads brings a nostalgic flair reminiscent of the ’90s, evoking memories of POG slammers for many. Xbox fans now have access to various color options for the new controller shell, including Ghost Cipher, Candy (pink), Astral (purple), Pulse (red), Surf (blue), and Velocity (green). These fresh options, combined with the existing variety in the Xbox Design Lab, demonstrate Microsoft’s commitment to reviving ‘90s aesthetics in a contemporary gaming context—something I genuinely appreciate.

Despite the Xbox brand feeling increasingly sidelined in the console wars, it’s important to recognize the hardware team’s consistent delivery of compelling controller variants. The Xbox Design Lab offers a unique avenue for customization that sets it apart from its PlayStation counterpart. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: PlayStation desperately needs a Design Lab equivalent, allowing gamers to create their own unique 30th Anniversary DualSense controllers. After all, a simple gray shell is all it takes for a little creativity to shine through.

Looking ahead, I’m particularly excited about the upcoming PlayStation Chroma collection, especially the Indigo and Teal variants. These offerings feel promising in terms of aesthetics and could potentially challenge Xbox’s dominance in the stylistic arena. However, I’m left disappointed to discover that the new console covers for the PS5 are only compatible with the Slim version and not the PS5 Pro I just pre-ordered—or even the standard PS5 I currently own. Despite this setback, I’m determined to acquire both the Indigo and Teal DualSense controllers, as they promise to add a vibrant touch to my gaming setup.

In conclusion, while the recent PS5 Pro pre-order launch may have been chaotic, it has only highlighted the ongoing rivalry between Xbox and PlayStation in terms of controller innovation. Microsoft continues to lead the charge with its inventive designs and customization options, while Sony struggles to keep pace with creativity in its controller offerings. As both brands push forward, it will be intriguing to see how they evolve their products and adapt to the changing demands of gamers. Ultimately, the real winners in this rivalry are the gamers themselves, who benefit from the competition driving innovation and creativity in the gaming industry.