Set to launch in August, the Sky Cipher Special Edition Xbox controller could stir up nostalgic feelings for gamers who have fond memories of the 1990s’ transparent-plastic trend.
Microsoft Unveils Eco-Friendly Sky Cipher Xbox Controller with Retro Flair
Microsoft recently unveiled details about the new Sky Cipher Xbox Controller, priced at $70 and set for a release on August 13, with preorders open now. In their announcement, they excitedly declared, “Transparent tech stages a grand return!” Whether that trend will take hold remains to be seen, but the Sky Cipher certainly looks the part.
Sporting a sleek blue design accented with metallic elements and a silver core, it features everything gamers have come to expect from a top-tier Xbox controller. It offers Bluetooth connectivity for easy pairing with PCs and mobile devices, comes with a dedicated share button, a 3.5mm audio jack for wired headphones, and promises up to 40 hours of gameplay with just two AA batteries.
In addition to its visually appealing design and technical capabilities, Microsoft is also taking significant strides toward sustainability with this release. The company has redesigned its controller packaging to eliminate single-use plastics, opting for a smaller box that reduces waste by 22%.
Furthermore, replacing the traditional paper manual, each package now includes a QR code that users can scan to access all the necessary instructions digitally. With these changes, Microsoft underscores its commitment to reducing environmental impact while still delivering cutting-edge gaming accessories.
In the ’90s, transparent game controllers and consoles became all the rage, partly inspired by the vibrant iBook clamshell’s design. Nowadays, while they are still available, these clear gaming accessories are mostly found through independent manufacturers rather than the big names like Sony, Nintendo, or Microsoft.
