The original Xbox Video Game Console from Microsoft was a beast of a system when it was released back in 2003. At the time, it was the most powerful video game console ever made, and with it came an interesting controller that was so big, gamers nicknamed it the Duke.
After the launch of the Xbox 360, the Duke was put to rest in favor of a smaller and better-received controller. For some, this was a problem, especially with Xbox fans with large hands. The smaller and more refined controller was not comfortable enough for these guys, but it was popular.
A change has come after all
Fast forward to the future and the Xbox One is on store shelves. Unfortunately, Microsoft didn’t return the Duke into the large palms of the many players who requested it. However, things have taken a turn for the best as plans are in motion to have a new version of the Duke on sale before the end of 2017.
Today it’s all about the Xbox One X, Microsoft’s newest video game console that is dubbed as the most powerful ever made. It’s a beast of a system that is designed to deliver games at true 4K. Interestingly enough, Microsoft didn’t disappoint in this regard as many video games will meet the quota.
Now, during the company’s E3 2017 announcement, the software giant revealed plans to support original Xbox games via its Backwards Compatibility initiative.
It’s perfect timing because the controller is right around the corner for those who want to play the old games via their Xbox One with a familiar friend.
“On June 11, Hyperkin, a video game hardware development company from Los Angeles, announced that – in partnership with Xbox – it is bringing back The Duke for the Xbox One family of devices (Xbox One, Xbox One S, and Xbox One X,) and Windows 10 PCs,” according to the video description on YouTube.
Seamus Blackley, the man, seen as the father of Xbox, is helping with the recreation of the Duke. The remake isn’t simply just a regular Duke, but one with features taken from the current Xbox One Controller. This means it will have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth compatibility along with the principal buttons designed for the current console.
The classic look and feel are there, but for the sake of working with the Xbox One family of devices and Windows 10, it needs to have other features as well.
What about the cost?
That’s something we’re unable to comment on right now. Still, it’s safe to say the pricing will likely sit alongside the current Xbox One controller, or slightly higher due to the new Duke being more of a collector’s item than anything else.
Microsoft won’t sell a lot of these, but the controller should reclaim some fans lost to the PlayStation 4.
