Microsoft has announced a new color option for its new Xbox Series X|S controller range. The Pulse Red Xbox controller will join three other color options and will be available in China starting tomorrow. Other markets will be able to grab it from February.
What is the new Pulse Red Xbox controller?
According to Microsoft, the new Pulse Red Xbox controller option boasts "a vivid, fiery-red topcase and crisp, white backcase". It's essentially the same as the Shock Blue option, but with a fetching red finish instead, appropriately enough given it'll be hitting China first. As you might expect, the new controller has the same design and functionality as the existing Xbox Series X|S controller range as well.
As with other Xbox Series X|S controllers, the new Pulse Red option is fully compatible with those consoles, as well as Windows 10 PCs and Android devices. The new controller remembers devices, so you can switch between your phone and your Xbox quickly and efficiently. You'll find a USB-C charging port for keeping the controller topped up, as well as a 3.5mm stereo headset jack for headsets and headphones. Microsoft also says the new Pulse Red Xbox controller comes with a 14-day free trial for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate "in select markets".
It's a strange time to be an Xbox controller owner right now. A few days ago, Steam added new features for Xbox Elite controllers, including more pairing options and remapping functionality. Unfortunately for Microsoft, those new features came hot on the heels of a lawsuit regarding controller drift, which the Redmond tech giant has asked to be moved to arbitration. It's worth remembering that this lawsuit mainly concerns the Xbox Elite controller range. If you're thinking of picking up one of the new Pulse Red pads, this isn't likely to affect you.
The new Pulse Red Xbox wireless controller hits China tomorrow and is coming to the rest of the world on February 9th. It'll set you back $64.99 when it launches. No word yet on whether the controller will feature censored face buttons.
Will you be picking up a Pulse Red Xbox controller? Let us know in the comments below!
