Xbox has led the charge within the console space when it comes to providing controller options for players, particularly those willing to pay extra money for something a little more premium. If you’re an Xbox gamer who’s a fiend for customization, wants features that give you a competitive edge, or just prefers the highest-possible component quality, chances are that the Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 has piqued your interest. Well, now it’s more affordable than ever.
Labeled the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 – Core, this white and black gamepad is the exact same build as the standard Series 2, except it’s $50 cheaper. Where the original black controller retails at $179.99, the Core controller will be sold at $129.99. No, it isn’t the simple color change that drops the price down, unfortunately; the Core package will come with fewer accessories, as seen below.
It will still have the tool with which you can adjust the thumbsticks to your preferred tension. It will also have adjustable hair-trigger sensitivity, customizable profiles, a rechargeable internal battery, and “refined components”; all lauded features of the original 2019 version. The adjustable sticks, back buttons, and D-pad will not be included, nor will the chargeable carrying case.
However, these will now be purchasable on-demand for those who buy the Core package and then change their mind about the additional accessories. Players will have the chance to buy what the company is calling the Complete Component Pack, which comes with all the previously mentioned items the Core controller does not include, and it’ll cost $59.99. Both the controller itself and the Complete Component Pack are slated to become available via the Microsoft store on September 20.
By offering a more affordable version of its premium customizable controller, Xbox is providing an appealing option for those who were interested in the product but were unsure about the financial commitment. Though the customization options are minimal, which is one of the controller’s main draws, the higher-quality components, rechargeable extended battery, and trigger/stick adjustments are still very attractive features.
Another tidbit announced alongside this reveal is that Elite Controllers will become part of Xbox Design Lab. This means Xbox gamers will be able to design their own color patterns and button styles on Elite Controllers, as well as standard controllers. This is set to launch this holiday season, though no specific dates were given.