As Borderlands 4 prepares for its release this Friday, September 12, Xbox Series X|S and PC players can look forward to a new official accessory. PowerA is set to launch its Borderlands Special Edition Wireless Controller on the same day, priced at $100. This gamepad draws inspiration from Borderlands 4`s primary antagonist, The Timekeeper, the formidable leader of The Order faction on the planet Kairos. Adorned in a striking orange and black palette, the controller also features iconic Borderlands elements, such as the game`s logo and the distinctive Psycho mask from the new game`s cover art.
Bearing official licenses from both Gearbox and Microsoft, this Borderlands-inspired controller mirrors the design of the standard Xbox Wireless Controller. It incorporates advanced customization options, positioning it as an affordable alternative to the premium Elite Series 2. This marks PowerA`s third entry in their line of special edition Xbox controllers, following successful releases like the Fortnite-themed model (currently 50% off) and a nostalgic Pac-Man version introduced earlier this year.
Advanced Features of the Borderlands 4 Controller
PowerA`s Special Edition Xbox Wireless Controller delivers a compelling array of features, especially considering its price point. Our previous experience with the Fortnite model confirmed its status as one of PowerA`s finest offerings. It boasts Hall Effect sticks and triggers, which enhance durability and precision. The triggers integrate Microsoft`s Impulse Trigger technology, with the added benefit of adjustable pull distances via rear-mounted locking switches. Users can select from three distinct stopping points, including the standard Impulse Trigger feel, with the shortest setting enabling rapid-fire inputs.
The controller features four remappable back buttons, conveniently placed on its textured, rubberized grips. These can be reconfigured on-the-fly using the dedicated Map AGB button, eliminating the need for an external application. Below this is the Profiles button, allowing users to switch between three custom control layouts saved via PowerA`s Gamer HQ App on Xbox or PC. The app further expands customization, offering adjustments for stick and trigger sensitivity, rumble intensity, dead zones, and audio settings for wired headsets connected via the 3.5mm jack. A volume/chat dial is present on the front, alongside standard Xbox buttons like Guide, Profile, and Share.
This professional-grade PowerA controller connects wirelessly to Xbox consoles and PC using a low-latency 2.4GHz USB adapter. It boasts an impressive battery life of up to 30 hours per charge. Recharging occurs via USB-C, and a 10-foot cable is included, which also enables wired gameplay with your console or PC.
Key Features:
- USB 2.4GHz wireless for Xbox and PC
- Rubberized grips
- Hall Effect Sticks
- Four remappable back buttons
- Hall Effect Impulse Triggers
- Trigger locks with three stopping points
- Profiles button: Stores three custom control profiles
- Map AGB button: Remap back buttons on the fly
- Official Xbox menu buttons: Profile, Share, View, Menu, Guide
- Up to 30 hours of battery life
- 10-foot USB-C charging cable (also for wired play)
- Volume dial for wired headset
- Dual rumble motors
- Customize settings with PowerA Gamer HQ App
- Button mapping
- Trigger and stick sensitivity
- Dead zones
- Rumble intensity
- Audio
Borderlands 4 Game Pre-order Information
For those yet to secure their copy of Borderlands 4, several physical editions are available for pre-order on PS5 and Xbox Series X. The standard edition is priced at $70, while the $130 Super Deluxe Edition offers substantial bonus content, including additional missions, boss encounters, and two upcoming story expansions. Additionally, the GameStop-exclusive Echo-4 Bundle can still 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.
Other Notable Special Edition Controllers
PowerA Fortnite Special Edition Wireless Controller
It`s worth highlighting that other special edition PowerA controllers, specifically the Pac-Man and Fortnite versions, are currently available at discounted rates on Amazon. The Fortnite Special Edition, originally $100, is now a remarkable $51. This white controller features distinctive red and black graffiti designs and includes a voucher for the in-game Tooth Pick Pickaxe in Fortnite. At this price, it represents exceptional value for Fortnite enthusiasts.
PowerA Pac-Man Special Edition Wireless Controller
The Pac-Man Special Edition is priced at $84 (down from $100) and boasts an exciting unique feature. Its design, reminiscent of a classic arcade maze, incorporates glow-in-the-dark and UV light effects that dynamically transform the appearance of the Ghost Gang and other visual elements. Even more impressively, PowerA`s Pac-Man Edition Enhanced Wireless Controller for Switch 1/2, currently $53 (originally $65), offers four distinct lighting modes that visually track key moments during a Pac-Man game.
8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode: Rare 40th Anniversary Edition
Furthermore, Microsoft recently collaborated with 8BitDo to release a stunning wireless controller celebrating Rare`s 40th anniversary. The 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode: Rare 40th Anniversary Edition marks the acclaimed third-party manufacturer`s inaugural wireless Xbox controller. It showcases an elegant royal blue and gold aesthetic. Key features include two remappable back buttons, Hall Effect sticks, a durable metal D-pad, a coordinating charging dock, and a dedicated customization app for Xbox and PC. This controller also allows for saving up to three distinct user profiles. The Rare 40th Anniversary Edition is available on Amazon for $90.