Microsoft’s original Xbox controller is re-launching in March – but the 2018 ‘Duke’ has a new feature just for hardcore Xbox fans
MICROSOFT'S legendary Xbox controller – which shipped with the first-generation console – is set to re-launch this spring.
A revival of the iconic joypad was first teased last year, but we now have official launch and pricing details for "The Duke" controller.
Speaking to Xbox founding father Seamus Blackley, CNet that The Duke will retail for $70 USD in the states.
There's no confirmed UK pricing just yet, but a direct currency conversion works out at around £50.
Hyperkin, which is manufacturing the controller, says it's aiming for a late March release, but there's no set date right now.
The good news is that the controller will be compatible with current-gen Xbox consoles and Windows PC desktops and laptops.
The original Xbox controller was introduced way back in 2002, at the Game Developers Conference.
The large, bulky joypad is a world apart from the svelte, tapered model that ships with today's Xbox One X.
But "The Duke" proved divisive amongst fans. Some liked how it set itself apart from the PlayStation pad by using asymmetrical analog sticks and large rear triggers.
Others thought the controller was simply too big, with some Japanese game developers even petitioning Microsoft to reduce the pad's size.
The new 2018 version looks very similar to the old model, but the central Xbox logo has been replaced with an OLED screen that plays the original Xbox startup animation whenever you press it.
Talking about the inspiration behind the revamp, Blackley said: "I discovered to my horror and fascination that The Duke was an object of nostalgia and comfort and happiness and childhood memories."
"All these people with big hands saying it was the only controller that was comfortable."
"One of the guys who follows me on Twitter tweets that we should reissue it...it got nearly 2,000 likes and retweets."
"I contacted Phil [Spencer, head of Xbox], who was a buddy of mine, and asked 'Phil, is this crazy enough to do?' and some of the hardware guys who were there when the Xbox was on the drawing board said we should absolutely do it."
"It's unlike anything that's happened in games before. It's f***ing remarkable."
