Xbox
News, coverage and analysis tracking Xbox across the outlets.
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Can the SideWinder Game Pad, Microsoft's first game controller, work on modern PCs? I bought three of them to find out
This article investigates the compatibility of Microsoft's original SideWinder Game Pad 1.0 with modern PCs. Despite its historical significance and innovative features for its time, the controller faces significant hurdles due to outdated connectivity ports and a lack of driver support, making it difficult to use with contemporary systems.
The best gifts for gamers in 2026, from cheap presents to show-stopping collectibles
This gift guide for 2026 offers recommendations for gamers across various budgets and interests, including the latest games, accessories, and collectibles for platforms like PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch, as well as retro and tabletop gaming options. The selections are based on the experts' hands-on experience and positive user reviews.
October's Prime Day deals for gamers LIVE: the top early savings across PS5, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox, and PC
Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days sale officially begins October 6, but early discounts on PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, and PC games and accessories are already available from Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. The article highlights the importance of finding genuine savings amidst competing sales events.
For The First Time Ever, Sony Skips CES, Which Was Home To One Of PlayStation’s Silliest Announcements
Sony will not attend the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January 2027, marking the first time since its debut in 1967. The company stated a shift in focus towards entertainment, including games, anime, films, and music, rather than technology-focused events like CES. Historically, PlayStation has made announcements at CES, such as the PlayStation 5 logo reveal in 2020 and the PlayStation VR2 unveiling in 2022.
Best early Black Friday retro deals 2026: Consoles, handhelds, and accessories I'd peek at ahead of the sales
This guide offers advice on finding the best early Black Friday deals for retro gaming consoles, handhelds, and accessories in 2026. It emphasizes focusing on smaller, impactful purchases like controllers and upscalers rather than original vintage hardware, and suggests checking retailers like Amazon, AliExpress, and Woot for potential savings.
A Lego replica of the original PlayStation will be available next month
Sony and Lego have revealed a 1:1 scale replica of the original PlayStation console, featuring 1,911 pieces and playable elements like an openable disc tray and pressable buttons. This collectible set, which includes a Lego PlayStation controller and dioramas of Ape Escape and Gran Turismo, will be available for purchase starting October 1st for $179.99 in the US.
IKEA's Xbox collab features a moving thumbstick stool and D-Pad pillow, but it's not just a gimmick
IKEA has launched the YXSTABY collection, a collaboration with Xbox featuring nine pieces of furniture and accessories designed for gamers. The collection includes items like a thumbstick stool, a D-Pad pillow, and a TV stand with integrated storage, aiming to blend utility and style for gaming spaces.
How Gamers Can Buy Xbox Gift Cards With Dogecoin (And Whether It’s Worth It)
This article explains how gamers can purchase Xbox and Game Pass gift cards using Dogecoin through third-party resellers like eGifter and BitPay. It details the process, potential fees, and the impact of cryptocurrency volatility on gift card value, advising users to check exchange rates and regional validity.
Secretlab's new Spider-Man gaming chair includes a venomous nod
Secretlab has launched a new limited-edition gaming chair in collaboration with Marvel, featuring a Spider-Man design with subtle nods to Venom. The chair utilizes Secretlab's SoftWeave Plus material and includes features like L-ADAPT lumbar support and 4D armrests. It is available for pre-order with shipping expected in October.
I've seen the IKEA x Xbox collection at Gamescom, and among some goofier products, there's one handy item I…
The IKEA x Xbox collection, launching October 1, blends IKEA's minimalist design with Xbox's gaming aesthetic. While featuring playful items like a thumbstick stool and D-pad cushion, the collection also includes practical solutions such as a monitor stand with integrated cable management and a side table with hidden storage. IKEA Product Design Developer Philip Dilé stated the goal was to create furniture people genuinely want in their homes, not just accept for gaming needs.
Ikea's new Xbox thumbstick stool isn't quite as absurd as you might think
Ikea has launched a nine-piece collection in collaboration with Xbox, featuring items like TV stands and controller display boxes. A standout piece is the "YXSTABY" gaming thumbstick stool, priced at $49.99 / £35, which is designed to tilt and turn with movement. The full collection will be available online starting October 1.
ASUS is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its gaming division with the ROG XBOX Ally X20
ASUS is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its Republic of Gamers (ROG) division with the announcement of the ROG XBOX Ally X20. A key upgrade for this anniversary model is a larger 7.4-inch OLED display.
A pretend Xbox model costs over $300, and the latest real Series X will potentially be a grand, so I'd like to…
The article discusses the high cost of both a non-playable Lego original Xbox model from Mattel, priced at $329.99, and a potential 25th-anniversary translucent Xbox Series X model rumored to cost $899.99. The author expresses concern over these rising prices, suggesting that the Lego set should be cheaper and the anniversary console should be more affordable, especially compared to the PlayStation 5.
Microsoft’s 25th Anniversary Xbox Series X Could Be Its Most Expensive Console Yet
Microsoft is releasing a limited-edition Xbox Series X to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Xbox, reportedly costing around $900 and launching on November 27. This special edition features a translucent green finish with hidden Easter eggs and a controller with nods to Xbox's history. Sony has also released a special edition PlayStation 5 inspired by Marvel's Wolverine.
There isn't an official Lego Xbox, so Mattel just said "fine, I'll do it myself"
Mattel Brick Shop has released a 3,509-piece, 1:1 scale replica of the original Xbox console and its 'Duke' controller to celebrate the console's 25th anniversary. The model features interactive lights and sounds, and opens to reveal dioramas from Halo: Combat Evolved, The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind, and Psychonauts.
PS6, Project Helix at $1,000 Will Sell 38 Percent Less Than Current-Gen Consoles – Analysts
Analysts at Ampere Analysis predict that a $1,000 launch price for the PlayStation 6 and Project Helix could lead to a 38% decrease in adoption compared to the current generation. The report suggests strategies like delaying releases, using heavy subsidies, or focusing on innovative hardware over raw power, similar to Nintendo's Wii strategy. Sony CEO Hiroki Totoki acknowledged the challenges posed by component shortages and trade wars, stating the company is still undecided on a PS6 launch date.
I love this controller's sugary sweet design, but you can get a great Pro pad for less money
The GameSir T7 Pro Sugar Whirl controller offers a charming design and advanced features like TMR sticks and Hall effect triggers, along with wireless compatibility for PC and Xbox. However, its $90/£100 price point is higher than comparable Pro controllers like the GameSir G7 Pro Tri-Mode, and its ergonomic design may not suit smaller hands. While it excels in connectivity and software customization, the value proposition is questionable for those not prioritizing its specific aesthetic or wireless Xbox features.
Xbox Elite Series 3 prototype surfaces on OfferUp with a mini display on board
A prototype Xbox Elite Series 3 controller, featuring a mini display for mode switching, has surfaced on OfferUp. Leaked diagrams from May align with the controller's design, including new scroll wheels and a secondary wireless mode for Xbox Cloud Gaming. Despite its features, the prototype is non-functional and was purchased for $200.
SanDisk's new Optimus line provides more storage options for Xbox players with its new up to 2TB expansion cards
SanDisk has unveiled its new Optimus GX C50 Storage Expansion Cards for Xbox Series X/S, offering 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB capacities. These cards are designed to work with Xbox's Velocity Architecture and Quick Resume technology, providing an alternative to existing options from Seagate and Western Digital. Pricing starts at $109.99 for the 512GB model, with the 1TB and 2TB versions priced at $199.99 and $339.99 respectively.
Evening Reading - August 5, 2026
This article is a roundup of various gaming news items from August 5, 2026. It includes updates on Xbox 360 games potentially coming to PC, EA appointing new executives, patch notes for Pokemon Pokopia and Beast of Reincarnation, and teases for the next season of Fortnite. Additionally, it mentions the release of Fields of Mistria 1.0 and new Fire Emblem content.
