Microsoft Announces Cross-Platform Xbox 360 Controller for Windows

Microsoft Announces Company’s First Cross-Platform Gaming Controller – Xbox 360 Controller for Windows delivers a consistent experience across Microsoft platforms.

REDMOND, Wash. — Oct. 19, 2005 — Microsoft Corp. today announced the retail availability of its first cross-platform game controller and the latest addition to the Microsoft® Game Precision Series. The Xbox 360™ Controller for Windows® delivers the precision and control that will set the standard for next-generation game controllers.

“This controller is a great example of one of the many areas where the Xbox 360 and Windows platforms complement each other,” said J Allard, Microsoft corporate vice president and chief XNA officer. “The Xbox 360 Controller for Windows is an important step in making it easier for consumers to enjoy gaming on both platforms.”

The Xbox 360 Controller for Windows works with Windows XP-based PCs and the Xbox 360 system, with a comfortable, enhanced ergonomic design, force feedback vibration support and a familiar button layout across both platforms.

“For the first time, gamers can simply unplug their controller from their Xbox 360 system and plug it into their Windows XP-based PC,” said Chris Donahue, director of the Windows gaming and graphics team at Microsoft. “This is a great breakthrough for the gaming industry as we make it easier for developers to create multiplatform titles.”

The Xbox 360 Controller for Windows retail product will include a driver for Windows XP-based PCs. The wired Xbox 360 Controller, which comes with the core Xbox 360 system, will also work on Windows XP-based computers after users download the available driver from Microsoft. The Controller has a 9-foot breakaway controller cable that plugs into a standard USB port.

The Xbox 360 Controller for Windows is widely available in North America for an estimated retail price of $39.99 (U.S.)* and will be released soon in Europe and Asia. The driver will also be available via download from Windows Update at http://www.windowsupdate.com and the Microsoft Hardware Web site at http://www.microsoft.com/hardware.

Industry Partner Support for the Xbox 360 Controller for Windows

“Microsoft’s new cross-platform controller will make it easier for Electronic Arts to develop games for both Windows and Xbox 360. It also promises to help bring our top-notch catalog of sports, driving and action games to wider audiences.”
John Schappert, Senior Vice President, Group Studio General Manager, Electronic Arts Inc.

“THQ is excited about the release of the new Xbox 360 Controller for Windows, as it will give gamers the precise control needed when playing games such as ‘MotoGP URT 3’ and other titles. The introduction of Microsoft’s first cross-platform controller is an exciting peek at what the future holds for multiplatform development.”
Kelly Flock, Executive Vice President, Worldwide Publishing, THQ Inc.

“Ubisoft is thrilled about Microsoft’s new Xbox 360 Controller for Windows. Ubisoft’s stunning games, such as ‘Prince of Persia: The Two Thrones,’ combined with the ease of use of the Xbox 360 Controller for Windows will enable gamers to take full advantage of the features in both the game and controller.”
Martin Sevigny, Director of Production Technology, Ubisoft Entertainment

“Microsoft’s new Xbox 360 Controller for Windows creates a consistent, high-quality gaming experience across multiple platforms. The industry has been anxiously awaiting a new standard in controllers for Windows.”
Peter Della Penna, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Product Development, Vivendi Universal Games Inc.