Xbox Controller Revolution? Leaks Suggest Elite Series 3 and Cloud Gaming Focus

Get ready, Xbox gamers! The controller landscape is about to get a major upgrade. Leaks and insider reports are swirling, hinting at not one, but three new Xbox controllers potentially on the horizon. These aren't just minor tweaks; we're talking about significant improvements, including the highly anticipated Xbox Elite Series 3 and controllers designed with cloud gaming in mind. Could this be the future of how we interact with our favorite games?

According to reports from well-known Xbox leaker eXtas1s and Windows Central's Jez Corden, Microsoft has been busy behind the scenes, developing multiple controller prototypes. These prototypes include a new standard controller with "next-gen enhancements," the mid-range "Sebile" controller, and the top-tier Elite Series 3, promising a premium experience.

Perhaps the most exciting detail is the focus on cloud gaming. The Sebile controller and the Elite Series 3 are reportedly equipped with a "Direct-To-Cloud" feature, allowing them to connect directly to your router via Wi-Fi. This bypasses the traditional Bluetooth connection through your phone or console, potentially slashing latency and making cloud gaming a much more responsive experience. Remember Google Stadia's low-latency performance? Xbox seems to be taking a page from that book.

What can we expect from each controller? The leaked information paints an intriguing picture:

• Basic Controller: A refresh of the standard Xbox Wireless Controller with unspecified “next-gen enhancements.” Hall effect sticks to prevent stick drift anyone?
• "Sebile" Controller: This mid-range option, codenamed Sebile, seemingly takes the place of the Elite Core and features haptic feedback, an accelerometer, and modular thumbsticks.
• Xbox Elite Series 3: The “elite, elite, elite” controller, as described by Corden, is the true successor to the beloved Elite Series 2. While specific details remain scarce, it promises to be the cream of the crop.

The current Xbox Elite Wireless Controller is already popular. These controller designs add to Xbox’s push for accessibility, highlighted by devices such as the Backbone and Adaptive Controllers.

It’s important to remember that these are still just prototypes, and the information is based on leaks and reports. As Jez Corden himself cautioned, “This is something I share on a podcast, but not necessarily something I'm willing to put into a report yet because I don't have a huge amount of information on this stuff — so take it with a pinch of salt for now.” Things could change, features could be scrapped, or the controllers might never even see the light of day.

Despite the uncertainty, the prospect of new Xbox controllers with enhanced features and a focus on cloud gaming is undeniably exciting. Will Microsoft deliver on the promise of a more responsive and immersive cloud gaming experience? Will the Elite Series 3 raise the bar for premium controllers? Time will tell.

What features are you hoping to see in the new Xbox controllers? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!

• Cloud Gaming
• Xbox
• Xbox Elite Controller