CEO Asha Sharma says Xbox pioneered dual analog controllers, not PlayStation

When celebrating the Xbox 25th Anniversary, CEO Asha Sharma praised the brand’s innovative consoles and accessories. However, her claim that Microsoft “pioneered dual analog controllers” is drawing criticism. The predecessor to the PlayStation DualShock is widely credited with this accomplishment.

Controller history

In a blog post, Sharma discussed how the OG Xbox console introduced a unique design. Taking cues from PCs, the bulky system offered an internal hard drive and an Ethernet port. The equally oversized Xbox controller had distinctive qualities. Still, it wasn't the first device to use a pair of analog thumbsticks.

The PlayStation Dual Analog Controller arrived in 1997 sporting symmetrical sticks. Then, the DualShock soon followed for the PS1, adding vibration motors. Even before the peripheral hit the market, Nintendo's stock N64 accessory used analog technology in a single stick.  

Meanwhile, developers began to evolve traditional control schemes. In 1999, Sony’s first-party Ape Escape took full advantage of the layout. The left stick guided characters, and the right-mounted input handled gadgets and various actions.

Does the Duke deserve props?

Called the “Duke,” the inaugural Xbox controller combined advancements from PlayStation, Nintendo, and Sega. The LT and RT analog triggers allowed for finer acceleration and braking in racing games. A six-button layout provided studios and players with more freedom. It’s also known for its asymmetrical dual analog sticks, a trait that continued into future generations.

Microsoft’s Halo: Combat Evolved was one of the earliest shooters to realize the potential of dual sticks. Players floated around maps with one input while the other controlled the camera and crosshair. This configuration reduced the advantage PC users enjoyed relying on keyboards and mice. Regardless, Alien Resurrection for the PS1 console had already implemented a similar scheme in 2000.

Given the evidence, it's unclear why Sharma would misrepresent the achievements of the original Xbox controller. Some social media posters question her knowledge of gaming history, noting that previous jobs were in unrelated fields. Others blame an overreliance on generative AI for inaccuracies in the 25th Anniversary address.