As Borderlands 4 gears up for its release on September 12th, gamers preparing to dive into Gearbox`s latest first-person shooter on Xbox Series X|S or PC have a new hardware option: an officially licensed wireless controller. PowerA is set to launch its Borderlands Special Edition Wireless Controller on the same day, priced at $100.
A Controller Inspired by The Timekeeper
This exclusive controller`s design is heavily influenced by The Timekeeper, the primary antagonist of Borderlands 4. The Timekeeper, who governs the planet Kairos and leads the faction known as The Order, lends his aesthetic to the gamepad`s striking orange and black color scheme. The controller also features iconic Borderlands elements, including the game`s recognizable logo and the distinctive mask worn by the Psycho character, a staple of the series.
Premium Features at an Accessible Price
Officially licensed by both Gearbox and Microsoft, this Borderlands-themed gamepad adopts the familiar form factor of a first-party Xbox Wireless Controller. Its impressive array of customization options positions it as a compelling and budget-friendly alternative to the high-end Elite Series 2. This marks PowerA`s third special edition Xbox controller dedicated to a specific game or franchise, following a Fortnite-themed model released last fall and a nostalgic Pac-Man-inspired edition introduced earlier this year.
The PowerA Special Edition Xbox Wireless Controller distinguishes itself with a robust list of features relative to its price point. Having previously tested the Fortnite model, it stands out as PowerA`s best controller to date. It comes equipped with advanced Hall Effect sticks and triggers, which are known for their durability and precision. The triggers are enhanced with Microsoft`s Impulse Trigger technology, and their pull distance can be finely tuned using locking switches on the back. These offer three distinct stopping points, including the standard Impulse Trigger feel, with the most restrictive setting transforming them into rapid-fire buttons for competitive play.
Customization, Connectivity, and Battery Life
Ergonomics are key, with textured, rubberized grips hosting four remappable back buttons. Gamers can remap these inputs instantly without needing an external app, thanks to the dedicated Map AGB button situated between the trigger locks. Directly below this button, a “Profiles” button allows users to switch between three custom control layouts, which can be saved to the controller using PowerA’s Gamer HQ App available on Xbox or PC. The app further expands customization possibilities, enabling adjustments to stick and trigger sensitivity, rumble intensity, creation of stick dead zones, and fine-tuning audio settings for wired headsets connected via the controller`s 3.5mm audio jack. A convenient volume/chat dial is located on the front, alongside all standard Xbox buttons, including Guide, Profile, and Share.
PowerA`s pro-style controller connects wirelessly to Xbox consoles and PC through an included low-latency 2.4GHz USB adapter. It boasts an impressive battery life of up to 30 hours on a full charge. Charging is facilitated via USB-C, and a 10-foot cable is included, which also allows for wired gameplay directly connected to your console or PC.
Key Features Overview:
- USB 2.4GHz wireless connectivity for Xbox and PC
- Enhanced rubberized grips for comfort and control
- Hall Effect Sticks for precise input and longevity
- Four remappable back buttons for competitive advantage
- Hall Effect Impulse Triggers with adjustable pull distance
- Trigger locks offering three distinct stopping points
- Profiles button to store and cycle through three custom control layouts
- Map AGB button for on-the-fly back button remapping
- Standard Xbox menu buttons: Profile, Share, View, Menu, Guide
- Up to 30 hours of battery life on a single charge
- 10-foot USB-C charging cable, also enabling wired play
- Dedicated volume dial for wired headsets
- Dual rumble motors for immersive feedback
- Extensive customization through PowerA Gamer HQ App, including:
- Button mapping
- Trigger and stick sensitivity adjustments
- Dead zone configuration
- Rumble intensity control
- Audio settings
Borderlands 4 Pre-order Options and Other Special Edition Controllers
For those eager to secure a copy of Borderlands 4, a variety of physical editions are available for pre-order on PS5 and Xbox Series X. The standard edition is priced at $70. The Super Deluxe Edition, at $130, offers substantial bonus content, including extra missions, boss encounters, and two upcoming story expansions. Additionally, the GameStop-exclusive Echo-4 Bundle can be pre-ordered for $150; however, it`s crucial to note that this collector`s edition does not include the game itself, requiring a separate purchase of Borderlands 4.
In addition to the new Borderlands controller, PowerA`s previously released Pac-Man and Fortnite Special Edition controllers are currently available at discounted prices. The Fortnite Special Edition is now on sale for just $51 (originally $100), featuring a white controller adorned with red and black graffiti outlines. It also includes a voucher for the in-game Tooth Pick Pickaxe, making it an exceptional value for Fortnite enthusiasts. The Pac-Man Special Edition is reduced to $84 (from $100) and boasts a unique design resembling a classic arcade maze, complete with glow-in-the-dark and UV light effects that alter the appearance of the Ghost Gang and other elements. Interestingly, PowerA`s Pac-Man Edition Enhanced Wireless Controller for Switch, also on sale for $53 (originally $65), offers an even cooler feature set with four distinct lighting modes that dynamically display key moments from a round of Pac-Man.
8BitDo Celebrates Rare`s 40th Anniversary
In a separate collaboration, Microsoft recently partnered with 8BitDo to release a stunning wireless controller commemorating Rare`s 40th anniversary. The 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode: Rare 40th Anniversary Edition marks the popular third-party manufacturer`s first wireless Xbox controller. It features an elegant royal blue color scheme with gold accents and includes notable features such as two remappable back buttons, Hall Effect sticks, a premium metal D-pad, a matching charging dock, and its own customization app for Xbox and PC, allowing storage for up to three user profiles. This special edition controller is available for $90.