Leaked: Xbox 25th Anniversary Translucent Green Controller Pricing Revealed
A new special edition controller inspired by the original 2001 hardware is expected to launch as part of Xbox's 25th anniversary celebrations.
Microsoft is preparing to release a nostalgic piece of hardware to mark a major milestone for its gaming brand. A leak has revealed the pricing and planned announcement details for the Xbox Wireless Controller Special Edition X25, a device designed to evoke the aesthetic of the original Xbox.
The controller features a translucent green shell, a direct homage to the iconic look of the first-generation console. According to details leaked by billbil-kun via Dealabs, the Special Edition X25 will be priced at $79.99 in the U.S., £74.99 in the U.K., and €79.99 in Europe. While specific launch dates remain unconfirmed by Microsoft, the company is expected to officially unveil the product during Gamescom in Cologne, Germany.
A Quarter Century of Xbox
This release is part of a broader series of celebrations commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Xbox brand. The company has already begun rolling out commemorative hardware to lean into the legacy of the platform. In June, Microsoft announced a limited-edition Xbox Series X console variant that features a matching translucent green shell. That anniversary console is currently expected to launch in November.
Tapping Into Hardware Nostalgia
By releasing the X25 controller, Microsoft is strategically targeting the nostalgia of gamers who grew up with the original 2001 hardware. The translucent "atomic" look was a hallmark of early 2000s electronics and remains a highly sought-after aesthetic among collectors.
Furthermore, offering the controller as a standalone purchase significantly expands the accessibility of the anniversary line. While the limited-edition Series X console represents a significant investment, the separate controller allows a wider audience of enthusiasts and long-time fans to own a piece of the commemorative hardware without needing to purchase an entirely new console.
What to Watch
Industry observers are now looking toward Gamescom for the official confirmation of the X25's specifications and availability. While the leak provides a clear picture of the pricing structure, Microsoft has yet to verify the exact release window or pre-order dates. It remains to be seen if the controller will be available in a wide retail release or if it will follow the limited-production path of the anniversary console.