Retro+ Teases HauteBox One, a Modular Arcade Controller With Leverless and Stick Layouts
Retro+ is getting ready to enter the modular arcade controller race with the HauteBox One, a new controller expected to launch this summer. The brand, which operates under Haute42, has shared an early teaser that suggests fighting game fans may soon be able to switch between a leverless setup and a traditional arcade stick layout without buying two separate controllers.
The teaser video reveals the device first in a leverless configuration, showing a clean button-only layout designed for players who prefer precise directional inputs without a joystick. Moments later, the video shifts to a second version featuring a stick on the left side, strongly hinting at a modular design that allows users to swap control styles depending on preference, game, or tournament needs.
While the teaser is brief, it does show a few design details. The directional buttons appear in red, while the remaining action buttons are black. Each button also seems to include RGB lighting, giving the HauteBox One a more customizable and premium look. For players who enjoy matching their controller setup to their gaming space or personal style, RGB lighting could be a welcome addition.
Retro+ has not yet shared full technical specifications, so key details remain unknown. There is no confirmation yet on supported platforms, connection options, input latency, switch type, case materials, weight, or whether the controller will include hot-swappable parts. Pricing has also not been announced.
The HauteBox One is being positioned as a spiritual successor to two Evo award-winning products, which may raise expectations among competitive fighting game players. Haute42 has already built recognition in the arcade controller space, and a modular controller from its Retro+ sub-brand could attract players looking for flexibility without compromising performance.
The timing is also interesting, as another modular arcade controller was recently announced. That model is expected to open pre-orders on June 26 at $129 before rising to $149 at launch. It remains to be seen whether the HauteBox One will compete on price, features, build quality, or all three.
For now, the biggest selling point appears to be versatility. A controller that can move between leverless and stick layouts could appeal to both longtime arcade stick users and newer players who have embraced leverless controllers for fighting games. If Retro+ delivers a reliable modular system, low-latency performance, and broad platform support, the HauteBox One could become one of the more interesting arcade controller releases of the summer.
More details are expected when Retro+ officially announces the HauteBox One closer to launch.
