A new 8BitDo Ultimate controller is headed to Xbox, bringing a wealth of versatility and customization to Xbox at a really tempting worth. Formally licensed by Xbox, the 8BitDo Ultimate launches on June 13 and is offered to preorder for $70 from Amazon, however there is a notable catch right here for Xbox customers. On PC and cell, the 8BitDo Ultimate Xbox controller ought to show to be an important various to the official wireless Xbox controller.
Whereas this controller options the excessive construct high quality and platform flexibility of different 8BitDo Ultimate gadgets, the unhealthy information right here is that if you happen to intend to make use of it particularly on Xbox Collection X|S or Xbox One, you’ll be able to solely achieve this in wired mode with the included removable USB-C cable. That is actually a disappointing revelation, particularly since at first look, you’d assume it merely appears to be like like an Xbox model of the incredible 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth controller for Nintendo Swap and different platforms.
At the moment, the 8BitDo Ultimate would not provide a wi-fi mode for Xbox consoles. A firmware replace may theoretically change that–Microsoft did open up its wi-fi protocol to permit third-party producers to make wi-fi controllers for Xbox final year–but for now, that is strictly a wired affair on that platform, and we would not advocate banking on post-launch wi-fi compatibility.
What’s significantly peculiar on this case is that 8BitDo has used Microsoft’s wi-fi protocol already. The stellar 8BitDo Arcade Stick presents wi-fi connectivity by way of a 2.4GHz dongle.
As talked about, the 8BitDo Ultimate is appropriate with platforms exterior of the Xbox ecosystem. PC gamers can sync the controller utilizing 2.4GHz wi-fi or Bluetooth. 8BitDo says Android is supported for cell, but when it mirrors the prevailing 8BitDo Ultimate, you additionally should not have an issue connecting by way of Bluetooth on iOS.
PC and cell gamers ought to remember the fact that you’ll be able to get essentially the exact same controller at Amazon for $57 proper now. The present model of the Ultimate works wirelessly on not simply PC and cell, but in addition Nintendo Swap. Nevertheless, utilizing the Swap mannequin on PC means you’ll have to get used to face buttons with the “improper” structure. Swap controllers reverse A and B in addition to X and Y, which could be irritating when gaming on PC, particularly if you happen to’ve been utilizing an Xbox controller for a very long time. That is the place the brand new Xbox mannequin is available in.
Outdoors of the wired connection on Xbox, the brand new 8BitDo Ultimate retains essentially the most impactful options that made the 8BitDo Ultimate our favourite third-party Swap controller and our prime decide in our greatest PC controllers roundup roundup.
It has Corridor Impact joysticks designed to mitigate the potential for stick drift, a chunky D-pad, and a pair of remappable again buttons. There’s a formidable quantity of customization to reap the benefits of, and the controller comes with a compact charging dock in case you resolve to apply it to a non-Xbox platform. 8BitDo’s proprietary Ultimate software program for PC, Mac, Xbox, and cell allows you to rapidly remap inputs, regulate set off sensitivity, create lifeless zones, and save as much as three customized profiles.
There are a number of variations in options between the 2 controllers as nicely. The Xbox version comes with microswitch bumpers and a 3.5mm audio jack–this is one other good addition for PC gamers who’re attempting to resolve between the 2 fashions. In the meantime, the Swap model has gyro movement controls. Moreover, the itemizing for the Xbox controller makes no point out of rumble, whereas the Swap controller has adjustable rumble.
PC customers must also check out 8BitDo’s retro-inspired keyboards for some nice add-ons to your PC gaming setup, as the corporate presents Famicom- and NES-inspired designs, and a Commodore 64 version with a removable arcade stick releases subsequent month.