Let’s address the surplus of mobile controllers available, making new ones seemingly unnecessary—especially for one-off designs or different colors.
An exception, however, should be made for peripherals that evoke nostalgia. Enter the surprise announcement of the Backbone One: Xbox Edition on a random Thursday in March.
The Backbone One initially launched in 2020, with an updated iteration in 2023 to adapt to Apple’s switch to USB-C and the introduction of the PlayStation Edition.
Now in 2025, the Xbox Edition of the Backbone One stands out with its Translucent Green color matching the original Halo Special Edition Xbox, a remarkable upgrade.
While the PlayStation Edition aligns its design with the DualSense controller, the Xbox Edition notably incorporates an Xbox logo instead of the traditional “Capture” button. This collaboration likely required Microsoft’s approval.
8Bitdo also released the Retro 87 keyboard and Retro R8 Mouse, offering a similar Translucent Green shell design from the original Xbox, adding a nostalgic touch.
Collaborations like these show a dedication to nostalgia, transforming devices and accessories into modern classics.
Last year, Sony celebrated the 30th anniversary of the original PlayStation with revamped devices, providing inspiration for more nostalgic collaborations.
The Backbone One: Xbox Edition captures the essence of nostalgia, making it a must-have for fans of classic gaming experiences.
Backbone One: Xbox Edition
Nostalgia at its finest
Rediscover the nostalgic charm with the new Backbone One: Xbox Edition, reminiscent of gaming experiences from 2001.