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Oculus to acquire Xbox 360 controller designer Carbon
Virtual reality company Oculus VR announced the acquisition of Carbon Design team this week. Carbon Design is best known as the designer of Microsoft's Xbox 360 controller, and will continue working from its studio in the Seattle area. Oculus said it has been working with Carbon "for nearly a year on multiple unannounced projects." Carbon also designed the transforming d-pad for the follow-up Xbox 360 controller that launched in November 2010 and contributed its mechanical engineering expertise to the Xbox 360 version of the Kinect. Carbon Design will become a "key component of the product engineering group" for Oculus, which itself was acquired by Facebook in March for $2 billion. Oculus continues to bring industry talent into the fold, such as former Valve VR head Atman Binstock in March, Steam pioneer Jason Holtman earlier this month and ID Software Co-Founder John Carmack in August 2013. [Image: Carbon Design]
Microsoft's Surface Pro 2 'Geek' bundle includes free Xbox controller and games
If you've considered the Surface Pro 2 to be more than just a portable workstation, then Microsoft's latest tablet bundle might pique your interest. In collaboration with online culture show Geek & Sundry, the company has quietly pushed live a new gaming deal on its virtual store in the US and Canada that throws in $105 worth of free games and accessories. For $899, the price of the base 64GB Surface Pro 2 model that's already included, you'll also get a wireless Xbox 360 controller and two games: Farming Simulator 2013 and a premium pack for free-to-play WWII flying simulator War Thunder. To be clear, neither title will vie for any upcoming gaming awards, but you can't argue with free, right? Microsoft intends to run the offer until May 1st or until stocks run out, whichever comes sooner, so if you've been waiting for the right opportunity to grab yourself a Surface Pro 2, now might be the time to click in.
Microsoft patent details pressure-sensitive Xbox controller for storing players' profiles
Biometrics and laptop security go together like business meetings and boardrooms, but this Microsoft patent hints that gaming could be the next frontier for fingerprint recognition. The claims for "personalization using a hand-pressure signature" detail a product that may look like your standard 360 controller, but it features sensors to detect a user's identity. It seems that, based on each gamer's unique hand pressure patterns, the controller can determine who is holding the device at any given moment and deliver personalized content based on that user's gaming profile. Whatever Microsoft's mystery controller may be, E3 is just a few weeks away, so perhaps we'll learn more then.
Microsoft goes baller with chromed out 360 controllers
When we're not busy ghostridin' the whip or gettin' that skrilla, we're making sure to accessorize with chromed out bling. We also spend quite a bit of time looking up how to awkwardly use terms from terrible rap songs.Given that, you'll understand our excitement this afternoon over Microsoft's announcement of chromed out Xbox 360 controllers. Better yet, said controllers feature the updated D-pad that Microsoft added in a new 360 controller back in 2010.As of now, the "Special Edition Chrome Series" wireless controllers will run $54.99 ($5 more than the usual wireless controller price) and are expected to be available at some point in "mid-May." Colors and availability vary by region, according to Major Nelson. Why anyone would want something other than what you see shining above, however, is beyond us.%Gallery-152030%
Xbox 360 Dashboard update review (fall 2011)
Kiss that old "New Xbox Experience" goodbye -- the Xbox Dashboard just went full Metro. Microsoft teased the console's latest overhaul back at E3, promising to "change living room entertainment forever." The following months saw leaks, previews and betas, all leading up to today, the eve of the Xbox 360's Fall Dashboard update. Is the new dash the game-changer it hopes to be? Hit the break, and we'll find out together.%Gallery-141009%
New Datel Xbox 360 controller packs LCD screen, parties like it's 1998
Datel's latest controller for the Xbox 360 is inducing waves of nostalgia, with a curious LCD display channeling the ghost of the Sega Dreamcast's VMU. The Turbofire EVO also packs in button mapping and fine-tune rumble options alongside third-party controller staples like turbo button settings. These can all be tweaked through the 1.7-inch screen, with extra custom profiles available if you connect the proudly unofficial controller to a PC. Check the video after the break and if a baked-in display presses your buttons, it's available now direct from Datel.
Mad Catz Major League Gaming controllers offer swappable thumbstick layouts, fancy arcade buttons
If we didn't already know those cats were mad about customizable controllers, we just got a reminder: the Mad Catz Major League Gaming Pro-Circuit Controllers. These professional-grade PS3 and Xbox 360 controllers allow competitive gamers to adjust the gamepad's weight and swap out key components -- such as exchanging the controller's analog stick for a D-pad. Want your PS3 controller to have a Xbox 360 layout? No problem. If the insane kitty's ambitious Onza competitor isn't your thing, check out the MLG Tournament Edition Fightstick, featuring the same Sanwa Denshi components used in Japanese arcade cabinets. It may not have its sibling's stick-swapping action, but its 13-foot controller cable, classic layout, and left-right stick toggle mode (for emulating the missing analog thumbstick) still aims to please. The Arcade Fightstick can be had now at the GameShark store to the tune of $160, but the Pro-Circuit gamepads aren't due out until closer to the end of the year. Hit the break for a pair of extra pictures and the standard PR.
Thrustmaster unveils Ferrari F458 racing wheel and TH8 RS shifter, dares you to get fast and furious
Is that regular ol' Xbox 360 controller leaving you unfulfilled after a marathon session of Forza Motorsport 4? Don't fret, Thrustmaster has announced the launch of its Ferrari 458 (F458) Italia Racing Wheel for Microsoft's gaming console. The 11-inch wheel features a rubberized grip to stay comfy, built-in metal paddle shifters, a Manettino dial for mid-lap adjustments and progressive resistance to keep you on the straight and narrow. Not wanting to leave PS3 and PC racers in its dust, the company also revealed the TH8 RS gear shifter -- which connects to the T500 RS or the outfit's other PC wheel controllers via USB. This bad boy lets you release your inner Michael Schumacher with either H-pattern or sequential configurations plus 360-degree rotation adjustment to tailor the gearbox to your liking. Both the TH8 RS and the aforementioned F458 will be hitting your garage... er, game room in October for $180 and $90, respectively. Check out the full PR for the pair after the break, and make sure you fasten your seatbelt.
Ben Heck splits and condenses a pair of Xbox 360 controllers for the disabled
That crafty Ben Heck is always up to something, like whipping up an Xbox 360 disk changer for the laziest of gamers. But, on the latest episode of his hacking and modding show, Mr. Heck is back to helping those in need and crafting accessible controllers for the disabled. During the 15-minute hackathon, the modder extraordinaire creates two different Xbox 360 remotes -- a split model for those with limited arm motion, and a one-handed version for people with use of only one set of digits. If you've got a smidgen of soldering experience (and ideally access to a CNC) these projects are probably even simple enough to tackle yourself. Check out the entire episode and full PR after the break.
N-Control Avenger Xbox 360 attachment makes it look complicated, we go hands-on (video)
At first glance, the N-Control Avenger looks like the fevered dream of a quirky lunatic, destined for fame and failure as a legendary crapgadget. When one showed up on our doorstep, we were admittedly skeptical. Could a lever- and pulley-laden Xbox 360 controller clamshell really give us a competitive edge? Wouldn't all the extra bits and pieces only result in a cumbersome mess? Is this doodad really worth the $50 asking price? We went hands-on to find out, and boy howdy, were we surprised. %Gallery-126392%
Batarang controllers to be thrown at E3, come back in October
If multiple batmobiles, a bat-usb stick, and a bat-puter aren't enough to convince you Bruce Wayne is a vain egomaniac, maybe these Batman: Arkham City batarang controllers will give you pause. In traditional bat-gadget fashion, these Xbox 360 and Ps3 controllers boast a cheesy bat-aesthetic (such as bat-start and select / back buttons), dual rumble motors, comfort-soft grips, and seven switchable splashes of LED color. Although physically the two controllers are pretty similar, Ol' Bats seems to favor the PlayStation 3, giving its controller not only the popular Xbox 360 button / analog layout, but an internal battery, detachable charging cable, and batman-themed USB RF receiver, to boot. The Xbox variant? A dated, wired affair -- but hey, at least it's got that Xbox guide button, right? The controllers will be on display next week at E3, courtesy of Power-A, and will hit store shelves when Batman: Arkham City ships in October, leaving you little excuse not to be geared up and ready when the bat-phone rings. Hit the break for the official press release... or, you know, have Robin do it for you.
Xbox 360's transforming D-pad controller gets handled on video
Boy, we've gone from rumor to hands-on experience in just a couple of days with this thing. Microsoft's November 9-bound Xbox 360 controller refresh couldn't escape the clutches of Joystiq, who have put together a neat photo gallery and video overview. That chrometastic new D-pad is clearly the headliner here, and the early feedback is that it works well -- it takes a bit of effort to transform from a flat button to the elevated four-way navigator you see above, but that's apparently a good thing as it means you'll never flip modes by accident in the middle of a hot and heavy gaming session. The analog buttons have also been subjected to some nipping and tucking and there is of course a new desaturated color scheme to explore as well. You'll find a shot of the retail packaging after the break and a lot more at the source. Update: Video now embedded after the break.
New Xbox 360 controller with improved D-pad confirmed, $65 on November 9
Hey, what's this? We just started hearing rumors this morning that Microsoft was planning a new Xbox 360 controller with an improved D-pad, and bang -- Major Nelson just went live with a YouTube video detailing the new piece. The new D-pad is a trick new patented design that's just as we heard from Joystiq: it's a disc in the normal configuration, but a quick twist raises the crossbars about a quarter-inch, making it eminently more usable. (That sound you hear is joyous weeping.) The analog sticks have also been tweaked to be slightly more concave, and -- wonder of wonders -- the ABXY buttons are now translucent monochrome instead of colored. Wild. The new matte silver controller will only come bundled with the Play and Charge kit for $64.99 when it launches on November 9 in the States and replaces the existing wireless controller -- it'll hit Europe around February. Yep, it definitely seems like a major upgrade, but we've got a couple questions: when will it replace the packed-in controller? What about all the people who just bought new Stealthboxes and got the older controller? And, most importantly, when can we have one to try out? We're pressing for answers and we'll let you know -- check the video after the break in the meantime. %Gallery-100796% [Thanks, Bill]
Xbox 360 to get fresh controller, better D-pad in time for the holidays?
Microsoft seems to have caught the hardware tinkering bug. Having overhauled its Xbox 360 design, the software giant is now said to be keeping busy in the lab working on the console's controller. Such is the word coming from our buddies over at Joystiq, whose reliable source indicates that Redmond will soon produce a new 360 controller with a redesigned D-pad. As the story goes, when you rotate the directional pad ninety degrees, it'll rise up by about a quarter of an inch, making it more accessible for those that still care to use it (e.g. fighting game fans). No details on what sort of bundled or standalone retail fate this little guy may have, but the holidays are its unsurprising destination. We just hope the Bond-esque mechanism comes with an appropriately futuristic swooshing sound.
Microsoft prepping new Xbox 360 controller with improved D-pad for the holidays [update]
We've got it on good authority that sometime this Holiday season, Microsoft will launch a new Xbox 360 controller with a rather unique D-pad. According to our trusted source, when one rotates the D-pad ninety degrees on this new controller, it'll raise up about a quarter of an inch -- a modification apparently revealed to be targeted at fighting game fans. Could it be a version of that nifty (yet ugly) European controller tie-in for Pro Evo 2009? Will it replace the new Xbox 360 S controller (pictured above)? Or will it be a separate, special controller? We've got plenty of questions and will try to dig up some more info, so stay tuned. Update: The new controller with a "transforming D-pad" has been announced and will be bundled with the Play & Charge Kit this November. Read the complete details here.
Fable III's special edition Xbox 360 controller, morally ambiguous and gold
Because standard hues and anachronistic science fiction designs simply won't mesh, Microsoft will be releasing this kingly limited edition Fable III Xbox 360 controller designed after the in-game Crown of Albion. Street date is October 5th, three weeks before the game itself decides to rear its royal head, and comes with a token for downloading an exclusive in-game tattoo. Look for it priced at $59.99, or about 15 boxes of Lucky Charms depending on your grocery store preferences. Video showcase after the break.
Acidmods moves a few buttons and a joystick on Xbox 360 controller
Hey, not all mods are outlandish and creepy. Some are just plain old... utilitarian. Acidmods got a request for a modded Xbox 360 controller that would move the X, Y, A, and B buttons and the right joystick. The fully functional finished product looks a little odd to the eyes, of course, but it's also done so well that it looks like a stock unit. As you'll see in the video after the break, the modded controller would take some getting used to for most of us, but it sure has character.
Absolutely hideous new Xbox 360 controller spotted online
We're not opposed to colors splashed on our favorite accessories, but a new Xbox 360 controller spotted online at EB Games is making us change your minds. Discovered by Chip Chick, this black and red abomination combines the sleek design of Microsoft's controller with a design only a color-blind person would find appealing. If its lack of style* isn't enough, the controller -- which is bundled with a charger -- will set gamers back $70. We'll stick with our solid colors, thank you very much.*If you happen to enjoy the controller's design, we apologize ... for your lack of taste. Ba-Zing![Via Gizmodo]
Ben Heck realigns Xbox 360 pad for improved awesomeness
If you've spent any time on Engadget before, you'll be aware that we're big fans of Ben Heck and his tireless modding, tweaking and hacking (or is it Hecking?) of console hardware. The latest feather to his cap comes in the form of a customized Xbox 360 controller, which sees its D-pad and action buttons swapping places in an effort to help a handicapped gamer get his proverbial groove on. The trigger buttons are also flipped, but the pièce de résistance is the inclusion of four extra action buttons along the bottom of the controller that make one-handed gaming totally feasible. Check 'em out after the break.
Modder brings Virtual On's dual sticks to the Xbox 360 on the cheap
Most fighting games are pretty badass, but fighting games that feature giant robots? Overwhelmingly badass. Such was Virtual On, one of Sega's most beloved (and seemingly most quickly forgotten) franchises, where two anime-themed (and frequently Saturn-wearing) virtualroids duked it out in full 3-D and blew our minds with great graphics and a humbling dual-stick control scheme (push both forward to run ahead, apart to jump, together to crouch, etc.). With the game making its triumphant return to action on the Xbox 360, a Japanese gamer has created the above monstrosity by wedging a couple of candy packages onto the controller's analog sticks, then wiring up weapons buttons. With a little paint they'd almost pass for the arcade's controller, but we're not entirely sure that thin plastic would hold up to repeated deploys of Grys-vok's ICBM attack. [Via Joystiq]
