"Ugly" Forza Horizon 6 Xbox controller and headset design slammed by racing game fans

Following an earlier leak, Microsoft has announced a wireless Xbox controller and headset to celebrate Forza Horizon 6. The accessories are up for pre-order now at Amazon, ahead of the racing game’s May 19th release date. However, not all fans approve of the designs, with some calling them eyesores.

The new Forza Horizon 6 Xbox controller

The Limited Edition Forza Horizon 6 Xbox Controller offers the usual 40-hour battery life and versatile connectivity to PCs, consoles, and mobile devices. It features a transparent cyan-blue shell, a metallic D-pad, and rubberized diamond grips. On its casing are splashes of volt green and hot pink. A Forza Horizon logo adorns the rear battery cover. The extra paintwork will cost buyers a $89.99 premium.

Microsoft labels the color scheme as the “most vibrant” seen on a first-party controller yet. Yet, it could be too chaotic for some followers on the official Xbox subreddit. Opinions usually vary widely on special edition designs, but No-Pick-8943 concludes that it’s “revolting”. Other gamers prefer the Forza Horizon 5 peripheral, which may seem tame in comparison.

A Forza-themed headset

The new $134.99 Forza Horizon 6 Xbox Wireless Headset again has familiar capabilities. With Bluetooth LE support, spatial audio formats like Dolby Atmos are options. The manufacturer estimates 20 hours of rechargeable battery life for listeners. To entice drivers, the headset will play custom track-inspired sound effects when it turns on or pairs with devices.

Microsoft went so far as to add custom graphics on the inside of the earcups. The same radiant colors repeat on its exterior, but some commentators, like Legomaniac316, find it more tasteful than the controller. Special-edition wireless Xbox headsets are rare for the company, so this new option will draw interest. Nevertheless, Redditor Morichh says the Starfield alternative is “undeniably much better looking.”

The brightly lit city streets and charming countryside of Japan have piqued the curiosity of racing game fans. Whether or not the Limited Edition Forza Horizon 6 Xbox Controller and Headset reflect that scenery is debatable. Regardless, Microsoft hopes the gear will attract the same impressive pre-order sales enjoyed by the game.

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