Microsoft’s new Xbox controller is more translucent than ever before

I’m fairly confident Microsoft has created more Xbox controllers than I’ve eaten hot dinners at this point, but I’m always happy to see another translucent option. This time, it’s the new “Sky Cipher Special Edition” controller, which includes a translucent blue design that lets you see the inner workings of the Xbox controller.

Microsoft has created white, black, and even pink translucent controllers in the past, but only the top half of those featured the effect. This new blue model is now mostly translucent, apart from the rear, grips, and buttons. It matches the special 20th edition model that was released in 2021. Microsoft has opted for two-tone thumbsticks, a matching D-pad, and blue metallic triggers.

Apart from the translucent effect, this is the same Xbox Series S / X controller that’s been available for years now. It includes a 3.5mm audio jack, USB-C connectivity, and up to 40 hours of battery life.

The Sky Cipher is the first to ship with new environmentally friendly Xbox controller packaging, though. “Single-use plastics have been removed from the packaging and the traditional paper manual has been replaced with a QR code for a digital quick start guide,” says Daniel Ruiz, senior marketing manager for Xbox accessories. “Additionally, the packaging is now 22 percent smaller and 21 percent lighter, further reducing its environmental footprint (previously 177mm x 175.4mm x 72mm and 152.3g).”