Due to stiff competition in the gaming peripheral market from the likes of Razer, Steelseries, and Logitech, Microsoft has announced that it will no longer be creating any Sidewinder devices and will be closing down the brand.
The Legacy of Microsoft SideWinder
Microsoft SideWinder is the general name given to the family of digital game controllers developed by Microsoft for PCs and was one of the very first brands to tailor their devices to gamers. The SideWinder series included a variety of devices such as joysticks, gamepads, and steering wheels, which were highly regarded for their innovative features and ergonomic designs. These devices were particularly popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s, a time when PC gaming was rapidly evolving.
The SideWinder brand has already been closed once back in 2003 and was resurrected in 2007 with the mouse pictured above. But alas, the comeback never really happened and again the brand is being discontinued. The 2007 revival included the SideWinder Mouse, which featured customizable weights, on-the-fly DPI switching, and a unique LCD display for quick access to settings. Despite these innovations, the product line struggled to gain traction in a market that had become increasingly competitive.
Challenges in the Gaming Peripheral Market
The gaming peripheral market has seen significant advancements and increased competition over the years. Companies like Razer, Steelseries, and Logitech have set high standards with their cutting-edge technology and extensive marketing strategies. These brands have not only focused on performance but also on aesthetics, offering RGB lighting, customizable software, and a wide range of products to cater to different types of gamers.
Razer, for instance, has built a strong community around its brand, offering everything from keyboards and mice to gaming laptops and even smartphones. Steelseries has focused on professional esports, sponsoring teams and events to showcase their high-performance gear. Logitech, with its G series, has consistently delivered reliable and innovative products, often at a more accessible price point.
In contrast, Microsoft’s SideWinder struggled to maintain a consistent presence in the market. The brand’s sporadic releases and lack of a cohesive product ecosystem made it difficult to compete with the more established and continuously evolving brands. Additionally, Microsoft’s primary focus has always been on software and operating systems, which may have diverted resources and attention away from their hardware ventures.
Another factor contributing to the discontinuation of the SideWinder brand is the shift in gaming trends. With the rise of console gaming and the increasing popularity of mobile gaming, the demand for PC-specific peripherals has seen fluctuations. While there is still a dedicated PC gaming community, the market dynamics have changed, requiring brands to adapt and innovate continuously.
Despite the discontinuation of the SideWinder brand, Microsoft continues to be a significant player in the gaming industry. The company’s Xbox division has seen tremendous success with its consoles, services like Xbox Game Pass, and cloud gaming initiatives. These ventures align more closely with Microsoft’s long-term strategy and core competencies.
In conclusion, while the closure of the SideWinder brand marks the end of an era for Microsoft’s gaming peripherals, it also highlights the ever-evolving nature of the gaming industry. As technology advances and consumer preferences shift, companies must continually innovate and adapt to stay relevant. The legacy of SideWinder will be remembered by many gamers who experienced its pioneering products, but the future of gaming peripherals will undoubtedly bring new and exciting developments.
Via TFTs
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