Microsoft has once again captured the hearts of gamers by adding a striking new variant to its beloved lineup of Xbox controllers. The newly revealed Xbox Wireless Controller Pulse Cipher Special Edition marks the third entry in the Cipher series, following the popular blue Sky Cipher and the ghostly gray Ghost Cipher. This latest addition brings a vibrant, translucent red design to the table, offering not just a new aesthetic but also a peek into the controller’s inner workings.

The Pulse Cipher Special Edition controller continues the trend of transparent gamepads, allowing users to see through the red plastic shell to the silver internals, including the intriguing vibration motors. This design choice not only adds a nostalgic charm reminiscent of the clear tech gadgets from the late ’90s but also infuses a modern, futuristic twist with its metallic accents. The controller sports a matte finish on most of its body for a comfortable grip, contrasted by a glossy, opaque D-pad that echoes the metallic theme with its dark red accents.

Despite its eye-catching design, the Pulse Cipher retains all the functionalities of Microsoft’s standard Xbox wireless controller. It’s fully compatible with Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, and can connect wirelessly to Windows 10/11 PCs, tablets, and even iOS and Android devices through Bluetooth. Like its predecessors, this model uses two AA batteries for power, ensuring gamers won’t have to pause their game sessions to recharge.

Where to preorder?

Gamers eager to get their hands on this vibrant new controller can now place preorders. The Pulse Cipher Special Edition is available for preorder at various retailers, including Amazon, where it’s priced at $74.99. Set for release on February 4, 2025, this controller is expected to be a hit among collectors and those who appreciate both form and function in their gaming gear.

The release of special edition controllers like the Pulse Cipher does more than just provide gamers with new hardware; it taps into a culture that values aesthetics as much as performance. Each new Cipher edition has its own personality, appealing to different tastes within the gaming community. The Pulse Cipher, with its bold red hue, seems poised to become a collector’s item, much like its predecessors, which have been celebrated for their unique looks and the sense of nostalgia they evoke.