Xbox is joining other companies to celebrate Pride Month by releasing a new controller. The onset of June marks the celebration, and Xbox will be paying tribute with this special edition design that showcases Pride for all members in good standing.
Xbox finally released a Pride controller in 2021, and it received universal praise. The company listened to player demands last year when they launched this limited edition of their console in order to make customization available through the Xbox Design Lab this time around.
The Xbox site wrote, “You can customize all other parts of the controller with a broad color palette, metallic finishes, rubberized grips, and even add engraving to make your Pride controller unique to you.”
The top case of the new controller pays homage to 34 different community flags with its design, which showcases an intricate lattice work pattern. Xbox Wire describes it as “a fine, interwoven manner to celebrate the nuance, complexity, intersectionality, and strength of the many LGBTQIA+ communities.”
“But this isn’t just a controller,” elaborated Xbox Wire. “It’s a symbol of the LGBTQIA+ communities that inspired it, and a call to continue efforts towards inclusion and representation across all gaming space.”
Xbox is taking pride in its diverse community and providing a platform for gamers from all walks of life. They’ve expanded their Pride Month merch collection this year, which includes apparel designed specifically to celebrate equality among other things.
Microsoft is also donating $170,000 to benefit a number of LGBTQIA+ communities. Its recipients include the LGBTQIA+ nonprofits OutRight Action International, Mermaids, Lavender Rights Project, African Rainbow Family, the National Center for Transgender Equality, and Fulcrum UA. The donation shows Xbox’s support in the fight for LGBTQIA+ equity and equality.
On Twitch, Xbox Plays will hold livestreams dedicated to LGBTQIA+ streamers while Xbox Ambassadors will spotlight stories about LGBTQIA+ representation in gaming. The Pride controller will be available for customization on the Xbox Design Lab this June 9.
