Xbox 20th Anniversary controller preorder: Release date and where to buy

This November, Microsoft’s Xbox gaming console surpasses two decades on the market, with various 20th-anniversary festivities marking the milestone. It includes the Xbox 20th Anniversary Special Edition controller, a remixed variant of its latest Xbox gamepad, drawing inspiration from its original Xbox console.

The special edition Xbox controller is Microsoft’s first fully translucent design, rocking a crystalline black outer shell contrasting with its green accents. The vibrant front-facing LED pays homage to earlier Xbox branding, while rubberized grips see similarly bold styling on the rear. Here’s what you need to know about the new special edition controller and how to get hands-on with this limited-time keepsake.

Microsoft announced its Xbox 20th Anniversary controller on Oct. 7, launching preorders ahead of a scheduled November launch. Preorders for the device went live via the Microsoft Store and various third-party retailers. We expect other retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and GameStop to launch preorders shortly in the U.S. and overseas.

Xbox 20th Anniversary controller release date

Microsoft is expected to release its Xbox 20th Anniversary Special Edition controller on Nov. 15, 2021. The date aligns precisely with the original Xbox console anniversary, a device that first debuted in the U.S. on Nov. 15, 2001.

The controller acts as just one part of a broader 20th anniversary campaign, including special variants of its Xbox Stereo Headset and Razer’s Universal Quick Charging Stand. Microsoft has also teased additional collaborations to come, including an Xbox and Adidas sneaker release, reworking its Forum Tech silhouette later this year.

Xbox 20th Anniversary controller price

The 20th Anniversary Special Edition controller retails for $69.99 in the U.S. The product demands a slight premium over standard Xbox controllers, as customary with special edition designs. Unlike limited edition products, constrained to a strict number of units, these controllers will be available through a limited-time window.

The accessory is also available in other regions, starting at $80 in Canada, £60 in the UK, and €65 in Europe. Check with your local retailer for additional details on regional rollouts.

What’s included with the Xbox 20th Anniversary Controller?

Microsoft has launched an extensive lineup of 20th anniversary-themed products slated for November, and its special edition controller poses a centerpiece for the collection. The celebration delivers a new spin on Microsoft’s newest Xbox gamepad, the same one that ships alongside Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S consoles, sporting an exclusive design.

The opaque all-black shell defines the Xbox 20th Anniversary controller, a homage to the translucent console designs popularized through the turn of the century. It’s the first Xbox Series X|S controller with a fully translucent design, intending to provide a window into the silver internals. The top Xbox button is now also green, while the rubberized grips boast an identical vibrant hue.

This controller also benefits from Microsoft’s recent controller revisions introduced with Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S in November 2020. The company introduced a dedicated Share button for video capture and screenshots while switching to a new directional pad design. A textured surface on LT and RT triggers comes standard, matching the new rubberized backing on rear controller grips.