With every new console, we look forward to

a new game controller. It’s part of the unique console experience. So far, the

Xbox team has been very transparent with plans for the new Series X. They also

shared juicy details about their controller.

On the surface, it may look like the Xbox

team just reused an Xbox One controller and call it Series X. In this case,

similarity may not be a bad thing. Rather than a complete overhaul, Microsoft

made subtle changes to the Series X controller that should improve gameplay

without modifying what was already good.

In an Xbox Wired Q&A, Senior Designer

at Xbox, Ryan Whitaker, answered some questions about the changes made to the

new controller and how it will affect gaming.

What shall it profit a console to have a

powerful processor but an unwieldy controller? It seems Microsoft considered

this with their new design. Series X controller was designed to fit more hands.

By using hands similar in size to 8-year olds, they claim to have improved

ergonomics, especially for people with smaller hands. Whitaker said the changes

won’t affect gamers with larger hands. The ergonomic adjustments resulted in more

rounded bumpers, slightly smaller and more rounded triggers and sculpted grips.

Compatibility and connectivity were

significant themes that guided the entire Xbox Series X design, and the

controller is no exception. Just like the games, the new Series X controller

will work with Xbox One consoles. The compatibility doesn’t stop there. The

Series X controller has Bluetooth Low Energy (BTLE), so paring will be more

seamless with PCs, Androids and iOS devices. Also, the controller remembers

several devices so you can switch between your phone, Series X and computer.

There’s also a USB-C port for charging and data connections. ðŸ’ðŸ¾

The Xbox team also made improvements to latency. Its system-wide Dynamic Latency Input (DLI) aims to reduce latency by sending data more frequently between the controller and the console. Microsoft claims DLI will then match the exact frame of the on-screen game with the signals from the controller.

There’s a new D-pad. Series X controller takes inspiration from the Xbox One Elite controller. Sharp vertical and horizontal movements are critical in certain games. The new D-pad features a unique circular outer design with distinct up, down, left and right buttons that should be easier to feel. Whitaker said “Gamers will notice a performance boost right out of the box.â€

Speaking of buttons, the Xbox team added a Sharebutton to the new controller. The latest addition will help gamers quicklyshare gaming screenshots or videos across the myriad of social media platformsor on the Xbox platform.

Lastly, the new controller has dots and bumps on the triggers and bumpers. These should provide grip and improve the overall feel of the device.

An excellent controller is essential to an

enjoyable gaming experience. Microsoft has had years to refine its controllers

and the upgraded ones seem to be the best ones yet (Elite Gaming aside).