I’m still holding out for Tron controllers
Not to be outdone by Sony, Microsoft also has announced some new accessories for its updated Xbox One S. The Xbox One S controller, which has Bluetooth connectivity and improved grips, is now available in black, blue, and purple.
Unlike the new PlayStation 4 controllers that have the light bar extend to the touchpad, these new gamepads don’t add anything from the existing white Xbox One S controllers other than color. That’s fine, right? More colors is cool, right? Yeah, except they charge more for them.
The black controllers are $60 like the original white version, but if you want a blue one, it’ll cost you $65. Purple? That’s $70. I know what you’re thinking. “This isn’t the first time different colored controllers have been priced differently.” And you’re right: this is not the first time, but it ought to be the last.
Also like Sony, Microsoft suggests that updates “may be required” for the controllers to work optimally. I understand in Sony’s case since the light bar will be implemented into gameplay, but why would these Xbox controllers need to be updated? For the Bluetooth to work on PCs and tablets, you need to have Windows 10 and the recent Anniversary update (as if you have a choice).
If you are indecisive about colors (I know I am), you won’t have to worry with Microsoft’s new gaming headset. It’s only in white. Compatible with both Xbox One and PC, the new $65 headset has features such as being able to hear people and chat with them, as well as listening to TV or movies in “rich, stereo sound.” Whoa, slow down Microsoft. Let me tell you about my spoon that you can use to eat cereal with in rich, silver metal.
Real talk: don’t buy “gaming headsets.” The audio quality will never compete with dedicated headphones in the same price range. If you must chat, a cheap clip-on microphone will suffice.
