Microsoft has today announced that the Xbox 360 controller will work with the upcoming Xbox 360 console, as well as with computers that have the Windows XP operating system. It will go on sale in December for $39. The cross-platform peripheral marks the first time that an Xbox controller has been specifically designed for use across the two Microsoft supported platforms and will come with an ample nine-foot cable.
Chris Donahue (director of microsoft gaming) has stated that:
"Gamers can simply unplug their controller from their Xbox 360 system and plug it into their Windows XP-based PC. This is a great breakthrough for the gaming industry as we make it easier for developers to create multiplatform titles."
The controller features a new design meant to improve ergonomics. It also offers "force feedback vibration support" and a button layout. The controller sold on its own will include a driver for XP-based computers. The controller that will be sold with the Xbox 360 console will also work on PCs after people download the driver from Microsoft.