The 8Bitdo Arcade Stick for Xbox Series is a retro-style controller perfect for nostalgic gamers to pair with their system as a way to bring the experience of the arcade into their home gaming setup. The controller features a tabletop design that's wireless but requires a surface to be placed on, which calls to mind retro peripherals and arcade experiences alike. The controller features eight buttons for performing combos and a joystick for movement, and has been introduced just in time to coincide with the release of Street Fighter 6 for the Xbox Series X and S consoles.
The 8Bitdo Arcade Stick for Xbox Series connects to consoles via a 2.4GHz wireless dongle, but also supports wired connectivity. Rated for 30-hours of gameplay per charge, the controller is available now for preorder ahead of its June 30, 2023 release.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Retro Gaming Controllers
- Manufacturers can create more retro-themed gaming controllers that hark back to arcade games of yesteryear
- Arcade-style Gaming Peripherals
- Gaming accessory makers can come up with arcade-style peripherals with features like joystick, large buttons, and a tabletop design
- Wireless Gaming Accessories
- Creating more wireless gaming accessories such as 2.4 GHz wireless dongles will be a trend in the gaming industry
Where This Applies
- Gaming Industry
- Gaming developers can invest in developing more arcade-style games for consumers who crave a retro gaming experience
- Gaming Accessories Industry
- Manufacturers of gaming accessories can take advantage of this trend and create retro-themed gaming accessories that are compatible with current-gen consoles
- Wireless Technology Industry
- The popularity of wireless technology can inspire more R&D in the wireless technology industry, leading to better, more efficient, and affordable wireless peripherals
