Microsoft has confirmed that there is currently a shortage of controllers for the Xbox Series X and the Xbox Series S. Major retailers have sold out of the wireless Xbox controller.
Microsoft responded to an enquiry from VGC regarding the shortage:
“We know it might be hard finding Xbox Wireless Controllers right now due to supply disruptions. We’re working as fast as possible with our manufacturing and retail partners to improve this. Please check with your local retailers for availability.”
In the US, stock is apparently more readily available than it is in the UK. Here, retailers such as Currys, Smyths, Argos, Game, and the Microsoft Store have all sold out.
The controller on the Series X is one of its nicest features. Unfortunately, they are still reliant on batteries, and the vibration is horrible, but they feel really nice in the hands.
In other recent Xbox controller-related news, the Xbox Design Lab re-opened last year. That service allows people to customise their own Xbox controllers. Check out the trailer for that here. Also last year, Microsoft issued a survey to Xbox players, in order to see if they would like to see new features in the Xbox controller. Specifically, if they would like to see features such as those of the PlayStation 5’s DualSense controller. Things like haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, etc.
