Microsoft loves having an extensive Xbox Wireless Controller line, even beyond the ability to make them yourself through the Xbox Design Lab. The latest two to be added to the lineup are another camo design and the radioactive Electric Volt. We've got our first look at the two new Xbox Series X wireless controllers below.
The first controller shown off is the Electric Volt. It looks like the bright yellow Spearmint gum brand, so I kind of dig it. It's definitely a strong pivot for the brand, colorwise. No special designs can be seen, just a color choice, but it was definitely created in a way where you won't lose it. Just look for a controller that looks like it has lit the beacons, and it's Gondor calling for aid:
"Inspired by the energy and vibrance often found in athletic apparel and sneaker design, the Xbox Wireless Controller – Electric Volt is the newest color in the current generation of Xbox controllers," says the latest Xbox Wire blog post ahead of its arrival on April 27 for $64.99.
The second controller revealed is more in line with previous designs. Xbox loves its camo, and the latest Daystrike Camo Special Edition controller definitely carries on that tradition.
This is the third Xbox Wireless Controller to debut from the ever-growing camo line following the Night-Ops Camo and the Arctic Camo. With three varying tones of red splashed in with a black and grey backdrop, Microsoft designed this one with a "streetwear vibe" in mind. The Daystrike Camo Special Edition controller arrives a little later than the Electric model, with a drop date of May 4, 2021, for $69.99.
Microsoft also added that it had taken steps with the new reveal to be more eco-friendly. According to the blog post, "Additionally, our efforts to become more sustainable across the Xbox product lifecycle apply to Xbox Wireless Controllers. With the new Electric Volt and Daystrike Camo Special Edition controllers, we will be incorporating post-consumer recycled (PCR) resins for the first time in any Xbox hardware. Both controllers will contain a portion of resins made from recycled materials like automotive headlight covers, plastic water jugs, and CDs. We expect no compromises from these recycled materials either, as our testing shows the materials provide the same controller durability or performance you have come to expect. We are excited to be taking this next step in our commitment to waste reduction and recycling while still coming up with innovative new controller designs."
Don't have an Xbox Series X or S? Don't worry! These controllers are also compatible with the Xbox One. You can learn more with the latest blog post right here.
Microsoft announced FPS Boost back in February of this year, sharing another new way that Xbox is making the gaming experience even better on the new generation of consoles. With the Bethesda acquisition now final, that bump in performance will be added to five titles under the ZeniMax umbrella, including Elder Scrolls, Fallout, and Dishonored.
The addition of FPS Boost makes the Xbox experience even better, a feature that aims to add a variety of new methods of doubling (even quadrupling) the original framerates of earlier titles. With the arrival of 20 Bethesda games joining the Xbox Game Pass, the following adventures will be getting that FPS jumpstart later today:
"FPS Boost employs a variety of new methods for nearly doubling the original framerate on select titles," says Microsoft about the latest games to get this boost in a new Xbox Wire post. "Higher, steadier framerates make games visually smoother, resulting in more immersive gameplay. We partnered closely with developers to enhance the experience while maintaining the game’s original intent. And while not applicable to all games, these new techniques can push game engines to render more quickly for a buttery smooth experience beyond what the original game might have delivered due to the capabilities of the hardware at the time. For the five titles we’ve shared today, gamers can expect to see an increase from 30 fps to nearly 60 fps while enabling FPS Boost."
Other games that feature FPS Boost include:
From 30 FPS jumping to 60 (and even 60 seeing a jump to 120 FPS!), the addition of FPS Boost is yet another incentive for Xbox players to look into the Xbox Game Pass. Not only does this service offer features like this, but it also includes day one first-party launch titles at no additional cost. The library is also ever-expanding, like the confirmation that Outriders will be available day one on Game Pass.
The company also added that games like Fallout 4 and Fallout 76 will not automatically have FPS Boost enabled on Xbox Series X and S, but it's as simple as going into the "manage game" section and toggling it on. This toggle will also be an option for Auto HDR, as well.
Thoughts on FPS Boost on Xbox? What games would you like to see get this bump next? Sound off in the comment section below!
[Source: Xbox]