Gamers understand the importance of a decent controller in their gaming experience. It can make or break the gameplay, making it either frustrating or pleasant. Microsoft’s Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 has long been a favourite among gamers, and the company has now unveiled a new version: the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core Blue.
In this review, we’ll look at the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core Blue and determine whether it’s worth the money.
Price and availability
Let us begin with the cost. The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core Blue costs £105, which is expensive when compared to the basic Xbox Wireless Controller. However, for dedicated gamers, it is well worth the money. It was also recently uploaded and updated on Xbox Design Lab, so expect more customisation options to raise the price even further.
Design and construction quality
The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core Blue has a sleek matte blue finish and black rubberized grips for a comfortable grip. It’s the same shape and size as the normal Elite controller, so it’s solid and well-made. It contains a 3.5mm headphone jack, an accessories connector, dual bumpers and triggers, and a USB-C port for charging and operating the controller in wired mode, just like the conventional controller.
It’s wonderfully made, with premium materials and attention to detail in every design component, allowing for hours of gameplay without tiredness. The build quality is excellent, but a few accessories are missing.
The Cost of Missing Accessories
The accessories are one of the primary distinctions between the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core Blue and the normal Elite. There is no carrying case, cradle, rear paddles, or substitute analogue sticks and direction pads included with the Elite Core Blue. However, the connections for the controller’s rear paddles remain, making it feel like a squandered opportunity.
It also lacks metal paddles, although it does feature two three-way lock switches for shortening the throws of the triggers. It also features connectors for a charging dock, which is not provided. The Complete Component Pack, which includes all of the missing parts, must be purchased individually for less than £59.99.
Performance: Is it on par with the Xbox Elite Series 2?
The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core Blue is connected and wirelessly compatible with Windows PCs and Xbox consoles (One and Series S/X). It connects to the consoles wirelessly, decreasing latency and allowing you to use the headphone jack. You may also connect it to your PC remotely over Bluetooth, but it lacks a headphone connector, or use an Xbox Wireless Adapter, which can be tough to locate.
The Elite Core Blue has the same set of customisation choices as the Elite via the Xbox Accessories software for Windows and Xbox. You can use the software to remap buttons, change the sensitivity curves for the analogue sticks, define dead zones for the triggers, adjust the vibration level, and even change the LED colours on the Guide button.
In terms of performance, the Elite Core Blue performs similarly to the normal Elite. It’s snappy and comfortable, with the trigger locks making a considerable difference in fast-paced games. On the Xbox Series X, we played Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 with the Elite Core Blue, and it performed exactly as well as the ordinary Elite. However, the lack of paddles made playing Battlefield 2042 less pleasurable when compared to its more elite Elite Series 2 controller sibling.
Wireless vs. wired
Depending on your preferences, the Elite Core can be utilised wired or wirelessly. The USB-C port on the controller’s top allows you to charge it while also using it in wired mode. This is a fantastic feature for gamers that prefer wired controllers because it eliminates the need to be concerned about battery life.
If you prefer wireless gaming, the Elite Core has you covered as well. It connects wirelessly to your Xbox console or Windows PC using Xbox wireless technology, and the connection is quick and stable. You can also attach your headphones to the 3.5mm headphone connector on the bottom of the controller for a wire-free gaming experience.
Last Thoughts on the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Blue
The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core Blue is an excellent controller for hardcore players seeking the greatest possible gaming experience. Although it is not as “elite” as the normal Elite controller, it still provides excellent build quality, performance, and customizability. The design is elegant and classy, and even after hours of games, the controller feels comfortable in your hands.
The Elite Core’s biggest disadvantage is the lack of attachments. If you’re ready to pay a little extra money, you can get the Complete Component Pack and upgrade your controller to the full Elite version.
Overall, the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core Blue is a superb pick for dedicated gamers seeking for a top-tier gaming controller. It’s a touch pricy, but it’s well worth the money for the improved gaming experience. So, go ahead and add this controller to your gaming setup and get ready to elevate your gaming experience!
