Backbone partners with Xbox for new mobile-focused controller with exclusive design
Going Xbox
- Backbone and Xbox have partnered for a new mobile-focused controller
- The Backbone One: Xbox Edition, will retail for $109.99
- It features Xbox branding and a snazzy translucent green design
When it comes to mobile, one of the largest companies to embrace it in recent memory is Xbox. The message from the company seems to be that they, and parent company Microsoft, want to make Xbox an identity rather than a specific platform. Little surprise then they've teamed with game peripheral manufacturer Backbone for a new mobile-focused controller.
The Backbone One: Xbox Edition is expected to sell for a recommended retail price of $109.99 in the US and £109.99 in the UK, and will be available directly via the manufacturer and from Best Buy. At a glance, it's easy to see the inspiration as the Xbox edition Backbone controller boasts familiar XYBA buttons, the Xbox icon and other gubbins, as well as a snazzy semi-translucent green design.
At the moment it's confirmed that the Backbone will only be compatible with USB-C devices, which means Android or potentially some iOS devices in future if legislation to mandate the use of USB-C in the EU goes ahead.
I wouldn't deny that the Xbox Edition Backbone looks very snazzy. But then I'm a sucker for that transparent plastic casing, even if my love affair with Xbox ended when I graduated to PlayStation and then PC. I can see it being quite appealing to those of you who are frequent users of GamePass and other services.
But, and this is a big but, retailing at over $100 may be enough to put some folks off. While an actual Xbox is much steeper (at over $400 from most retailers) the amount being asked for something bearing prominent branding is definitely going to be a sticking point for some folks.
Still, we'd be hard-pressed not to say that Xbox has been making some sweeping moves on mobile. Don't believe me? Check out our list of the top 10 best Xbox Games Pass releases for Android!
