Xbox Design Lab Revival: Microsoft resumes custom Xbox controller creation after nearly a year's gap
Xbox Design Lab Expands Customization Options for Xbox Series X|S and Elite Series 2 Controllers
The holiday season is fast approaching, and the relaunch of the Xbox Design Lab by Microsoft offers an exciting opportunity to create a truly personalized controller that could make a killer gift. The Xbox Design Lab now extends beyond controller customizations, providing a broader range of accessories such as carrying cases, charging packs, paddles, D-pads, thumbsticks, and thumbstick toppers for the Xbox Series X|S and Elite Series 2 controllers.
With the relaunch, users can now customize colors, textures, button styles, patterns, and engravings on these items, offering more design combinations than ever. New features include sleek translucent shell options, premium upgrades like rubberized grips and custom engravings (available at an extra cost), and an improved 3D real-time design interface to preview customizations before ordering.
Fresh themed skins inspired by popular games like Fallout and Call of Duty are also available, with upcoming designs teased for DOOM: The Dark Ages and The Witcher. It's worth noting that all orders are final, with no returns or cancellations, as the products are tailor-made to customer specifications.
The return of the Xbox Design Lab could potentially serve as an ideal showcase for upcoming Xbox hardware, such as refreshed controllers and a possible new console design. Bringing back the Xbox Design Lab might also be a strategic move to boost brand image in anticipation of upcoming Xbox hardware announcements.
While Sony offers limited controller customizations, and Valve allows players to decorate their Steam Decks, the revamped Xbox Design Lab stands out for its breadth of accessories and ease of use. Users can now design, price, and order personalized controllers and accessories directly from the official site.
However, it's important to remember that while the customization options are extensive, not all premium upgrades come at no extra cost. Sleek translucent shells, themed designs, rubberized grips, or custom engravings will incur an additional fee.
In conclusion, the Xbox Design Lab has expanded from just controller customizations to a broader range of accessories with more design options, premium features, fresh thematic styles, and a refined user experience for creating personalized Xbox gaming gear.
As the holiday season approaches, the expanded Xbox Design Lab presents an opportunity to create personalized gadgets such as smartphones cases, given the improved 3D real-time design interface. In addition to their popular controller offerings, Microsoft now provides customization for smartphone accessories, ensuring your devices match your Xbox Series X|S and Elite Series 2 controllers.
