Microsoft is opening the doors to its Xbox Design Lab once more, giving gamers the opportunity to custom design their Xbox Series X controllers through the official service. This is the first time the official Xbox Design Lab has reopened since the new Xbox console generation launch in late 2020 and will be a welcome return for new console owners.
Xbox Design Lab Reopens for Custom Controller Design
Prior to the Xbox Series X and Series S launch in November 2020, Microsoft closed the Xbox Design Lab for new orders. The shutdown was always temporary, but it has taken since late October to resume the custom Xbox controller design service.
The Xbox Design Lab enables anyone to create a custom color scheme for their new Xbox Series X controller. There are 18 colors to choose from, including Lightning Yellow, Shock Blue, and Pulse Red, while you can customize the body, back, D-pad, bumpers, triggers, thumbsticks, ABXY, View, Menu, and Share buttons.
However, the ABXY, View, Menu, and Share buttons aren't customizable with colors, just predesigned styles.
If you want the ultimate in Xbox Series X controller customization, you can opt for an engraving, such as an Xbox Gamertag or otherwise. The engraving service costs an additional $10 and is limited to just 16 characters, which isn't all that much.
How Much Does a Custom Xbox Series X Controller Cost?
As you might expect, the Xbox Design Lab comes with a premium. A regular Xbox Series X|S Controller will set you back $60. A customized Xbox Design Lab controller comes in at $80, plus another $10 for the customized engraving service.
Of course, that's a significant increase in price for a custom controller, but well worth it if you're in the market for a truly unique bit of gaming hardware.
Is Xbox Production Returning to Normal?
When the Xbox Series X and Series S launched, the market was beset with hardware manufacturing difficulties. COVID-19, production delays, global chip shortages, shipping issues, and more all contributed to a very difficult marketplace for gamers just wanting the latest console.
In recent weeks, there have been signs that the market is beginning to thaw. Xbox console sales are beginning to pick up as more stock reaches retailers.
Now, the resumption of the Xbox Design Lab is another sign that things might be returning to normal. Previously, Microsoft couldn't open the custom Xbox controller design service due to supply limitations for its console packages.
So, even if you're not in the market for a stylish custom Xbox controller, you can enjoy the significance of the Xbox Design Lab throwing open its doors once more.