Xbox Wireless Controller X25 Special Edition price, pre-order date, and release details leak
Xbox fans who miss the bold look of the original console may soon have a new collectible to add to their setup. The Xbox Wireless Controller X25 Special Edition, a 25th anniversary model with a translucent green design inspired by the first Xbox, is expected to go up for pre-order later this month.
The controller was first revealed in June during the Xbox Games Showcase, where Microsoft also announced a limited edition Xbox Series X console as part of its 25th anniversary celebration. While official pricing has not yet been confirmed by Xbox, a new leak has offered a clearer picture of what players can expect to pay.
According to the leaked information, the Xbox Wireless Controller X25 Special Edition will be available for pre-order on August 26, the same day Gamescom 2026 begins. The controller is reportedly priced at $79.99 in the United States, CA$99.99 in Canada, €79.99 in Europe, and £74.99 in the United Kingdom.
The special edition controller is expected to launch on October 20, 2026. That timing matches earlier details suggesting the standalone controller would arrive in October, while the limited edition Xbox Series X console and controller bundle would follow in November.
The big attraction here is the design. The translucent green shell is a direct throwback to the original Xbox era, giving the controller a nostalgic look aimed at longtime fans and collectors. With Xbox celebrating 25 years, the X25 Special Edition is clearly positioned as more than just another color variant.
However, the rumored $79.99 price tag puts it above some competing retro-style Xbox controllers already on the market.
One alternative is the 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode controller for Xbox, which also features a green translucent shell inspired by the classic Xbox aesthetic. It is priced at around $59.99. The controller supports Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless connections, but there is one important limitation: it only works with Xbox consoles through a USB-C wired connection.
Another option is the GameSir T7 Pro Retro Green Tri-Mode Controller. Priced at $69.99, it offers a similar retro green look and includes Mag-Res TMR sticks. Unlike the 8BitDo model, GameSir’s controller supports wireless connection to Xbox consoles, making it a more flexible choice for players who want a cable-free experience. It is currently available for pre-order ahead of its release this month.
For collectors, though, the official Xbox Wireless Controller X25 Special Edition may still be the most appealing option. Its official branding, anniversary status, and original Xbox-inspired design could make it a popular item when pre-orders open.
As for the limited edition Xbox Series X25 console, pricing and pre-order details remain unknown. Xbox has confirmed that the console and controller bundle is planned for November, but fans will have to wait for more information on availability and cost.
If the leaked details are accurate, August 26 could be an important date for Xbox collectors. The Xbox Wireless Controller X25 Special Edition may not be the cheapest translucent green controller available, but its nostalgic design and official 25th anniversary branding could make it one of the most sought-after Xbox accessories of 2026.
