If you’ve ever wrapped your hands around the standard controller that came with your Xbox Series X or S, you might have wondered what it’s like to elevate your gaming experience with something a bit more… elite. Enter the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core controller, Microsoft’s premium offering now tantalizingly discounted to just $98, a 25% drop from its regular $130 price tag, available at both Amazon and Target. But if you’re eyeing the deal at Target, move fast; this sale ends today at 12 pm PT, according to the product page.

The model on offer here is the white variant, sans the extra accessories. If you’re eyeing something a bit more comprehensive, the black version, which includes a carrying case, six thumbsticks, four paddles, a thumbstick adjustment tool, a charging dock, and a USB-C cable, will set you back $170, normally $180.

Let’s dive into what makes this controller stand out:

• Battery life: With an impressive 40-hour battery life on a single charge, the Elite Series 2 Core controller isn’t just about comfort; it’s about endurance. This means less downtime between your gaming sessions and more time mastering your game.
• Customization: One of the standout features of this controller is its customization capabilities. It allows you to swap out components like thumbsticks and paddles, which aren’t an option with standard Xbox controllers. Moreover, you can save up to three custom profiles directly on the controller. This is a godsend if you share your controller with someone who has different gaming preferences or if you switch between games that require different setups. Whether you’re diving into the fast-paced action of “Call of Duty: Warzone” or the more strategic gameplay of “Forza Horizon“, you can tailor your controller to your needs.
• Build and comfort: The Elite Series 2 Core isn’t just about performance; it’s also ergonomically designed with a rubberized grip for comfort during marathon gaming sessions. The triggers, joysticks, and directional pads are made to be more robust and long-lasting than those of traditional controllers, ensuring they stand the test of time (or at least, many hours of gameplay).

At its usual price of $130, the Elite Series 2 Core already offers a premium experience for those willing to invest in their gaming setup. But at $98, you’re looking at a significant discount that makes this high-end controller much more accessible. Considering that regular Xbox Wireless Controllers hover around the $60 to $70 mark, this deal is not just good; it’s one of those “act now or regret later” moments.

Whether you’re a competitive gamer or just someone who enjoys the tactile feedback and customization options of a premium controller, this sale could be your cue to upgrade your gaming arsenal. Remember, if you’re heading to Target, you’ve got until midday to snag this deal.

Disclaimer: Prices and promotions mentioned in this article are accurate at the time of writing and are subject to change based on the retailers’ discretion. Please verify the current offer before making a purchase.