This is actually more of a general question/concern for the controllers of all 3 of the upcoming systems. A Wireless Controller seems like it'll be the only way to go in the next gen systems. While that may seem like the next step, more convenient and all, there are still certain bad sides to it I'm concerned about.

I got a wireless controller for my PS2 and a GameCube Wavebird! One thing that is irritating about them is running out of batteries. After nonstop play of about 3 hours it'll start dying on me. Now I can easily just plug in my regular standard wired controller in for the time being until I can replace the batteries. This doesn't seem like we'd have this option in the next gen systems. We could probably have another wireless controller. But this goes especially with online play. The controller dying on you could be disastrous. And when they run out on me they have happened on some of the most inconvenient if not the worst time for it to happen. Once like before I got the opportunity to get to a save point in one of my games.

Another thing is a shotty signal. I know that the controllers will have blue tooth in them which does seems like a good thing since it doesnt get obstructed at most. But my experience with the Wavebird is a little more than usual it would skip as if someone tripped on my controller wire had it actually been a wired controller, except this could be more common and easily could happen since anything would be in the way of your controller and reciever. In this case wireless doesnt mean free after all. It sux. I have this problem both with the Wavebird and my PS2 wireless controller.

Then one thing that annoys me is having to change batteries. Man seriously all 3 systems better have internal rechargable battery as well as docking stations or recharging wires. I hate having to change batteries. Which is why I dont really like using my wireless controllers anymore.

Thing I really hope for at least is a good signal that could recieve through a brick wall and rechargable dockable controllers with at least more than 7 hours of battery life. Seriously this is a big sacrifice the systems are making just so their controllers wont have wires.

Microsoft will be licensing out wired controllers for 3rd parties when the system is released. I'm sure planned products will make store pages of Gamestop and EB Games for example, a couple months in advance to the release of the system, if it'll ease your concerns. Don't expect to see 3rd party wireless until 2007 though.

XBOX 360 does not use bluetooth for wireless. The controllers use a custom 2.4Ghz wireless communication with the XBOX 360.

The controllers do allow you to plug them in and charge while you play, and I believe they come with a low battery warning.

Does this comfort you from your concerns more?

Once fall hits, there will be more facts and info about as the media campaign kicks into high gear.


Also, if you read the XBOX Fact Sheet, you will see that both wired and wireless controllers are listed.


Here's a copy.

Xbox 360 Wireless Controller
High-performance wireless gaming is here! Using optimized technology, the Xbox 360 Wireless Controller lets you enjoy a 30-foot range and up to 40 hours of life on two AA batteries—and when they run low, you're given ample warning so you can connect a Play & Charge cable for uninterrupted play. Plug the Xbox 360 Headset into the controller for full duplex voice communication: a wireless first. With quick access to Xbox 360 features including DVDs, music, pictures, and more, along with the ability to support four wireless controllers simultaneously, gamers can experience wireless freedom, precision, high quality, and performance for endless gameplay.
It's cordless—no cables to plug in—with a 30-foot wireless range.

The controller features integrated 2.4GHz high-performance wireless technology.

New and improved ergonomic design enables maximum comfort and endless gameplay.

New left and right shoulder buttons are designed for ease of use.

Two analog pressure-point triggers, two vibration feedback motors, and one eight-way directional pad are included.

Experience an unprecedented level of Rumble Control. Set the Rumble Control to Full, Medium, Low, or Off to match your personal preference.

The Xbox Guide Button at the center of the controller gives you quick access to all your favorite Xbox 360 system activities, such as watching movies, listening to music, contacting friends on Xbox Live, and customizing your gaming experiences. Easily jump to the Xbox Gamer Guide or Xbox Live Marketplace.


Xbox 360 Controller
Based on the acclaimed design of the Xbox Controller S, the Xbox 360 Controller features an extended nine-foot cable and an improved ergonomic design. The centralized, glowing Xbox Guide Button grants you quick access to your digital movie, music, and games libraries. The ultimate in gamer flexibility, precision, control, quality, and comfort are all yours.
New and improved ergonomic design enables maximum comfort and endless gameplay.

New left and right shoulder buttons are designed for ease of use.

Two analog pressure-point triggers, two vibration feedback motors, and one eight-way directional pad are included.

The controller includes a nine-foot (nearly three-meter) break-away controller cable.

Experience an unprecedented level of Rumble Control. Set the Rumble Control to Full, Medium, Low, or Off to match your personal preference.

A port for your Xbox 360 Headset is included.

The Xbox Guide Button at the center of the controller gives you quick access to all your favorite Xbox 360 system activities, such as watching movies, listening to music, contacting friends on Xbox Live, and customizing your gaming experiences. Easily jump to the Xbox Gamer Guide or Xbox Live Marketplace.

Ah well that's definitly a relief. I certainly hope PS3 and Revolution's controllers are going to follow the same as far as the power and signal issues i brought up. I can't seem to find any info on the PS3 controller.

btw Wait, XBOX360 will have a wired controller? How do those plug into the 360?

The small panel under the Power button when it is standing up (to the right of the power button if it is laying flat} opens as a door and there are USB ports hidden there. These should not work with your XBOX controller though, these are standard USB 2.0 ports. In the past there have been converters available. I don't know however if this will mean current X-BOX controllers will be supported though this method of connection though. There is also a USB 2.0 connection on the back.

Going wireless is a *bleep*ing Great idea. I can't wait. No more dang wires running around the front of my beautiful TV. A more Clean and Professional look. God I can't wait.

quote Vandal

Plug the Xbox 360 Headset into the controller for full duplex voice communication: a wireless first.

I thought they already have a wireless headset out.

quote Straven

I don't know if they did or not. I never had a wireless controller, but could you still have a headset in a wireless controller?

LOL, wouldn't that mean you'd need a battery in your headset?

While I'm very excited about Xbox 360's wireless controllers, I spite at the fact Sony's have to be recharged every 24 hours. Why? Xbox 360's controllers can last for 40 hours, so what's the deal with Sony's? If Bluetooth sucks up that much power, I don't see why they bother to use it.

quote Darkel

I spite at the fact Sony's have to be recharged every 24 hours.

Weak...but its so friggin small?! How come it takes up so much juice?

I'll probably just end up putting new batteries into the controller each time they die instead of waiting for them to charge. It saves time.