Microsoft Reveals Transparent Controller That Rekindles Memories of the OG Xbox Era

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Microsoft has revealed a new transparent Xbox controller that rekindles memories of the OG Xbox era: the Sky Cipher Special Edition. It's available to preorder now at Amazon for $69.99, with a release date of August 13.


In a post on Xbox Wire, Daniel Ruiz, Sr. Marketing Manager, Xbox Accessories, said the Sky Cipher features a transparent blue design “complemented by metallic features and silver interior parts that shine through from inside, exuding an aura of sophistication and futuristic appeal.”

Leaning into the nostalgia for console generations gone by, Microsoft's video promoting the new transparent controller begins with the OG Xbox bootup animation. Perhaps Microsoft plans to release a transparent console next?


Here’s the official blurb:

Elevate your experience and style with the Sky Cipher controller. Stay elegantly on target with Sky Blue metallic triggers and a matching D-pad surrounded by a dark blue accent. Refine your game with two-tone thumbsticks featuring Sky Blue bases and dark blue tops. Hold on to the action with rubberized, Sky Blue grips on the back case. Looking closely at the hand grips, you can see the rumble pack vibrate and react to your gameplay.

Otherwise, the Sky Cipher Special Edition is the same Xbox Series X and S wireless controller Microsoft has sold for years, and includes USB-C connectivity, a 3.5mm audio jack, and up to 40 hours of battery life.

Alongside the reveal of this controller is the announcement that the Sky Cipher introduces a new packaging design for Xbox controllers “that embodies our commitment to reducing product carbon footprint.”


Single-use plastics have been removed from the packaging and the traditional paper manual has been replaced with a QR code for a digital quick start guide. Additionally, the packaging is now 22% smaller and 21% lighter, further reducing its environmental footprint (previously 177mm x 175.4mm x 72mm and 152.3g). Sky Cipher is the first Xbox controller to ship in this new packaging.




Microsoft has a long history of releasing custom and specially designed Xbox controllers, although in recent years it has faced critisizm for locking some of the more eye-catching peripheraps behind social media competitions. For example, recent Deadpool and Wolverine Xbox controllers released to coincide with the launch of MCY movie Deadpool & Wolverine are only available to competition winners.

The Xbox Wireless Controller – Sky Cipher Special Edition, however, is available to pre-order today in select Xbox markets worldwide for $69.99.


Wesley is the UK News Editor for IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at [email protected] or confidentially at [email protected].