Microsoft’s next-generation game console, the Xbox One, launches this week, and according to a report by Venture Beat, Microsoft spent a massive $100 million on the Xbox One controller.
Microsoft reportedly spent $100 million developing the Xbox One controller, and tested out various versions of the controller with a wide range of features.
Some of the features that Microsoft tested on the Xbox One controller included a built-in projector, and even the ability for the console to emit smells.
Initially, Alam told us that Microsoft spent “hundreds of millions” of dollars on creating just the controller, not counting the rest of the Xbox One. When we asked for clarification (backed with wide eyes and an agape mouth), he told us, “I don’t want to go into specifics, but it’s over $100 million for sure. Between the tooling of the device, the investments we made in process technology, and the engineering work that went into it, we invested a lot to get this thing right.”
Innovative Features Considered
The development team at Microsoft explored a plethora of innovative features for the Xbox One controller. One of the most intriguing concepts was the inclusion of a built-in projector. This feature would have allowed gamers to project images or additional game information directly onto a surface, creating a more immersive gaming experience. Imagine playing a game where the map or additional stats could be projected onto the wall next to you, providing a seamless extension of the on-screen action.
Another fascinating feature that was tested was the ability for the controller to emit smells. This would have added a whole new sensory dimension to gaming, making experiences more vivid and engaging. For example, a racing game could emit the smell of burning rubber during a high-speed chase, or a cooking game could release the aroma of various dishes being prepared. While these features did not make it into the final product, they highlight the lengths to which Microsoft was willing to go to innovate and enhance the gaming experience.
Final Design and Tweaks
In the end, the final Xbox One controller has a few tweaks over the original Xbox 360 controller. These changes, while seemingly minor, were the result of extensive research and testing. The new controller features improved ergonomics, making it more comfortable to hold during long gaming sessions. The thumbsticks have been redesigned for better grip and precision, and the triggers now include haptic feedback, providing a more tactile and responsive experience.
Additionally, the D-pad has been revamped to offer more accurate control, which is particularly beneficial for fighting games and other genres that require precise directional inputs. The overall build quality of the controller has also been enhanced, ensuring durability and longevity.
Despite these improvements, $100 million certainly is a lot to spend on what may appear to be a few tweaks. However, this investment underscores Microsoft’s commitment to delivering a top-notch gaming experience. The company recognized that the controller is a critical component of the gaming system, serving as the primary interface between the player and the game. By investing heavily in its development, Microsoft aimed to create a controller that would not only meet but exceed the expectations of gamers.
In conclusion, while some of the more experimental features did not make it into the final design, the Xbox One controller represents a significant step forward in terms of comfort, precision, and overall gaming experience. The $100 million investment reflects Microsoft’s dedication to innovation and quality, ensuring that the Xbox One controller remains one of the best in the industry.
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