8BitDo continues its collaborative streak with Xbox, unveiling a highly anticipated addition to their lineup: a wireless controller. This marks their first foray into wireless controllers designed for Xbox, a significant milestone in itself. However, what makes this controller even more special is its purpose: celebrating the 40th anniversary of the renowned Microsoft-owned game studio, Rare. Rare is celebrated for crafting iconic titles such as Sea of Thieves, Donkey Kong Country, GoldenEye 007, Banjo-Kazooie, Conker, and Perfect Dark. The 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode Controller: Rare 40th Anniversary Edition is now available for purchase at $90.
The original Ultimate 3-Mode Controller debuted last spring, offered in classic white and black. Later, a transparent green version was introduced in May, mirroring the aesthetics of 8BitDo’s Retro 87 Keyboard and Retro R8 Mouse. The “3-Mode” designation of the initial $70 controller signified its versatile connectivity: 2.4GHz Wireless for PCs, Bluetooth for mobile devices, and a wired connection for Xbox consoles. While these connectivity options remain in the Rare 40th Anniversary Edition, this special edition expands functionality by adding 2.4GHz Wireless compatibility for Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One consoles. The integration of Microsoft’s wireless protocol, coupled with the unique commemorative theme, explains the controller’s slightly increased price of $90.
$90 | For Xbox, PC, Apple, Android
Many would argue that the Rare 40th Anniversary Edition stands out as 8BitDo’s most visually appealing controller to date. In fact, it’s a standout Xbox special edition controller, overall. This controller pays homage to Rare’s classic color palette, incorporating a dual-tone Royal blue shell accented by yellow-gold joystick rings, face button labels, triggers/bumpers, and two customizable rear buttons.
Elevating the tactile experience, 8BitDo has crafted the D-pad from gold-plated zinc alloy. This marks the first instance of a metal D-pad within the Ultimate series. The left handle proudly displays Rare’s 40th Anniversary logo, while hidden within the darker Royal blue silhouettes are Easter Eggs that allude to the studio’s rich history.
Adding to the allure, the controller includes a matching charging dock emblazoned with the studio’s name on the front. The dock also neatly houses the 2.4GHz USB receiver in a compartment located at the bottom. Additionally, a USB-C cable and a pair of silicone stick caps, adorned with the Sea of Thieves logo on one and a jigsaw puzzle piece on the other, are included. The puzzle piece cleverly references the collectibles found in Rare’s iconic platformers, Banjo-Kazooie and DKC.
While we haven’t yet evaluated the wireless performance on Xbox consoles, our experience with this controller indicates that it offers the same benefits as its predecessors. The Ultimate 3-Mode controller boasts high-quality components, excellent design, and versatile device compatibility.
Here are the key specifications for the Rare 40th Anniversary Edition:
- Platform support:
- Xbox Series X|S & Xbox One – 2.4GHz Wireless | Wired
- Windows – 2.4GHz Wireless | Wired
- Apple iOS & macOS – Bluetooth
- Android- Bluetooth
- Controls:
- Hall Effect anti-drift sticks
- Hall Effect impulse triggers (Xbox/PC)
- Microswitch bumpers
- Two remappable back triggers
- Tactile metal D-pad (made of zinc alloy)
- ABXY face buttons with gold labels
- Xbox Guide | View | Menu | Star | Profile
- Mic and Input switches
- Textured handles
- Accessories:
- Matching charging dock with 2.4GHz receiver
- Rare-themed silicone stick caps
- USB-C to USB-A cable
- Profiles: Save up to 3 custom control layouts
- Battery: Up to 20 hours | Charge time: 4 hours
- Ports: USB-C, 3.5mm audio jack
- Vibration: Xbox and PC only
- 8BitDo Ultimate Software for Xbox, PC, Apple, Android:
- Remap inputs
- Set up custom profiles
- Create dead zones
- Adjust stick sensitivity
- Adjust trigger sensitivity
- Adjust rumble intensity
With its broad compatibility including PC, Mac, and mobile platforms, the 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode Wireless Xbox Controller: Rare 40th Anniversary Edition is poised to attract not just Xbox enthusiasts but also dedicated fans of Rare’s gaming legacy. However, it’s important to note that while this controller is an excellent choice, it does not feature the cutting-edge technology found in 8BitDo’s top-tier Ultimate 2 or the upcoming Pro 3 Bluetooth Gamepad slated for release on August 12.
The Ultimate 2 boasts enhancements such as four remappable buttons, improved TMR sticks, RGB light rings, and adjustable trigger locks. In contrast, the Ultimate 3-Mode controller largely mirrors the specifications of the original Ultimate, offering a solid gaming experience but lacking some of the advanced features of 8BitDo’s flagship models. PC gamers might find the Ultimate 2 for $60 more appealing, while those with a Nintendo Switch or Switch 2 may prefer the Ultimate 2 Bluetooth, priced at $70.
While 8BitDo’s collaboration with Xbox spans several years, 2025 has marked a significant period of intensified partnership. In recent weeks, 8BitDo has introduced an updated version of their Ultimate Mobile Controller, officially licensed for Xbox Cloud Gaming, alongside a wireless leverless fight stick. The mobile controller, designed to securely cradle your iPhone or Android phone, is available at an affordable $50. In addition, the All-Button Arcade Controller stands as the second Xbox-licensed 8BitDo arcade controller tailored for fighting games. The fight sticks offer wireless connectivity to Xbox consoles, similar to the Lite SE Accessibility Controller and Xbox Media Remote. It is worth noting that while the new 3-Mode controller is the first conventional 8BitDo controller to offer wireless support for Xbox consoles, the manufacturer already possesses considerable experience with the wireless protocol.
Below is a compilation of 8BitDo accessories officially licensed by Xbox, although some are not exclusively designed for Xbox use. For instance, the Retro 87 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard is part of 8BitDo’s series of retro-inspired gaming keyboards and is based on the distinctive design of a special edition of the original Xbox. This keyboard offers great value for its price and is available for just $65 (originally $120) at Woot, an Amazon-owned retailer.
