<\/p>\n

It took nearly five years, but finally Microsoft has gotten around to upgrading the Xbox 360 controller’s D-Pad, AKA the worst controller D-Pad in gaming history, as I’ve opined numerous times before.<\/p>\n

The new monochrome controller, scheduled for retail release on November 9th, is actually rather ingenious. With a simple twist, the D-Pad instantly transforms from the existing disc pad form into the more traditional “plus” style. The plus D-Pad still looks kinda chunky to me. But hey, it’s an improvement, and a neat innovation to boot, so I’m all for it.<\/p>\n

The controller also features slightly modified analog sticks — they have a smooth concave finish without those little nubbers around the edge — and the face button colors have been changed to a grayscale scheme. Unnecessary changes, yes, but they won’t hurt anything.<\/p>\n

Sadly, though, there is a bit of a catch. This redesigned Xbox 360 controller will only be available as part of the new Play & Charge Kit, which will cost the usual $65. At this time, Microsoft mentions no plans to release the controller by itself for, you know, the many Xbox 360 owners who have Play & Charge Kits and don’t want to spend $15 extra for something they already own.<\/p>\n

New Xbox 360 Wireless controller featuring a transforming D-Pad<\/a> [Major Nelson]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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