What were the original Xbox controllers called?

When the original Xbox was released in 2001, it was an exciting time for gamers. Microsoft had entered the gaming console market, hoping to compete with giants like Sony’s PlayStation 2 and Nintendo’s GameCube. One of the standout features of the Xbox was its controller, which was designed to be larger and more ergonomic than previous controllers at the time. However, the Xbox controller had a few hiccups along the way, with the initial version becoming the stuff of gaming history.

Let’s dive into the fascinating story of the original Xbox controllers and their legacy.

1. The "Duke" – The Original Xbox Controller

The Duke was the name given to the first-ever Xbox controller. It was released alongside the original Xbox console in 2001, and it was something of a behemoth compared to other controllers at the time. Its size and shape quickly made it a standout (and often a source of jokes).

Why Was It Called "The Duke"?

The controller was nicknamed “The Duke” after the Xbox team’s head of hardware, Seamus Blackley, who referred to it as a tribute to the Duke Ellington of video gaming controllers. It was also rumored that the Duke was intended to be a controller that could withstand the might of the powerful Xbox system, providing an all-encompassing, heavyweight experience.

Key Features of the Duke:

• Large Size: The Duke was notably large and had a wide form factor, making it awkward for smaller hands to hold comfortably.
• Bigger Buttons: The face buttons (A, B, X, Y) were larger than normal, which caused a lot of gamers to find it difficult to play with precision.
• Analog Sticks: Two analog sticks for movement and aiming, plus a D-pad for directional input.
• Unique Design: It featured a big circular "Start" button in the center with a glowing Xbox logo.

Though larger than life, the Duke is often remembered fondly by original Xbox fans for its distinctive, oversized design, which was typical of early 2000s hardware.

2. The S-Controller – A More Compact Version

In response to complaints about the size of the Duke, Microsoft quickly designed a more ergonomically-friendly controller, which became known as the S-Controller. It was introduced in 2002 and shipped with the Xbox Controller S, which was a vast improvement in terms of comfort and usability.

Why Was It Called the "S-Controller"?

The S in "S-Controller" referred to the smaller form factor compared to the original Duke. It was a significant change in design philosophy, as Microsoft aimed to create a more universally comfortable controller, especially for gamers with smaller hands.

Key Features of the S-Controller:

• Compact Design: It was smaller and lighter than the Duke, offering a much more comfortable grip, particularly for those with smaller hands.
• More Standard Button Layout: The S-Controller had smaller, more traditional-sized buttons and the thumbsticks were more aligned to current ergonomic standards.
• Rounded Edges: Its more curved edges and symmetrical design made it much easier to hold for long gaming sessions.
• Controller Type: The Controller S became the default controller for most Xbox consoles after its release and was widely adopted.

The S-Controller is often seen as the definitive Xbox controller of the era and is considered far more comfortable than its predecessor.

Why Did the "Duke" Fail?

The Duke was often criticized for its oversized design, which made it awkward to hold, especially for people with smaller hands. Its large shape meant that gamers had to stretch their fingers to reach buttons and triggers, which led to discomfort during extended gaming sessions. The more compact S-Controller became the go-to controller because of its better ergonomics.

Despite the criticisms, the Duke is still a part of gaming history, and many fans who grew up with the original Xbox look back on it with fondness.

Legacy of the Original Xbox Controllers

The Duke and S-Controller laid the foundation for future Xbox controllers. Microsoft’s controllers today have continued to evolve, maintaining a similar layout but focusing heavily on ergonomics, comfort, and performance.

In fact, the Duke's legacy lives on today. In 2018, Hyperkin created a re-release of the Duke controller that was compatible with the Xbox One and Windows PCs, giving newer generations the chance to experience the nostalgia of the original controller.

Conclusion

The original Xbox controllers were revolutionary in their time, setting a new standard for what a game controller could be. The Duke might have been oversized and clunky, but it was a bold step in the evolution of gaming peripherals. Microsoft quickly learned from its mistakes with the S-Controller, which became the beloved standard for the original Xbox era.

These controllers remind us of how far the gaming industry has come in terms of design and technology — from large, bulky designs to sleek, ergonomically friendly controllers we use today.

If you're looking to relive the glory days of the original Xbox and perhaps own a piece of gaming history, check out the Hyperkin Duke controller and other Xbox controllers on platforms like Youwei Trade’s gaming section.