Xbox To Make Controller S Available In Europe

SEVILLE, 24th September 2002 – At the X02 event in Seville, Xbox, the video game system from Microsoft, announced its “Controller S” will be on sale across Europe from 1st November for an estimated street price of €39.99/£24.99.

Controller S is the Xbox answer to gamers who wanted more choice.   Smaller than the standard Xbox controller and featuring a new button layout, Xbox Controller S allows gamers to choose the controller most comfortable for them.

Key differences between Xbox Controller S (available at retail) and Xbox Controller (available at retail, and packaged inside all Xbox Video Game Systems) are:

• Size/Comfort — Xbox Controller S is smaller.  This design enables gamers with smaller hands to enjoy a proper fit and is more comfortable for them during extended periods of play.
• Primary Button Placement — With Xbox Controller S, the new button placement is a more traditional cross layout.  The four primary buttons are easier to reach, which is an important feature in certain games where quick button combination selection is necessary.
• Ease of Reach for Secondary Buttons — The black and white buttons are located below the primary buttons instead of at the top of the controller.
• Revised D-pad Surface — For improved directional movement, the surface of the D-pad has been modified into a cross pattern.
• Start/Back Buttons— These buttons are now located below the left thumbstick.
• Thumbstick Surfaces — The surfaces on the thumbsticks have been changed slightly, and an increase in surface area allows more thumb room.

“The decision to make Controller S available in Europe means we can offer gamers greater choice, making Xbox gaming even more personal and comfortable,” said Sandy Duncan, VP, Xbox EMEA.  “Feedback on Controller S from North America has been very positive, and we felt that European gamers would also appreciate the chance to choose.  Now gamers can play their favourite Xbox games with the controller that best suits them.”

The standard Xbox Controller will remain the controller supplied with all Xbox Video Game Systems and will also still be available at retail.

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