August 4, 2025 — In an unexpected twist for gaming hardware enthusiasts, 8BitDo’s highly anticipated collaboration with Xbox and Rare—a limited-edition controller celebrating Rare’s 40th anniversary—has surfaced prematurely on Amazon. The listing, which appeared briefly before being taken down, offered fans a first glimpse at the retro-inspired design and confirmed months of industry speculation.
The leak, spotted by eagle-eyed shoppers earlier today, revealed a controller blending 8BitDo’s signature retro-modern craftsmanship with Rare’s iconic legacy. Dubbed the "8BitDo Rare 40th Anniversary Edition for Xbox," the pad features a deep navy blue chassis adorned with gold accents, evoking Rare’s classic logo and motifs from beloved franchises like Banjo-Kazooie, Perfect Dark, and Conker’s Bad Fur Day. The listing included high-resolution images showcasing textured grips, customizable back buttons, and a transparent faceplate revealing internal circuitry—a nostalgic nod to Rare’s 80s arcade roots.
According to the now-removed Amazon page, the controller supports Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, and Windows PCs via Bluetooth or USB-C. It also boasts hall-effect joysticks (eliminating drift concerns), remappable controls via 8BitDo’s app, and up to 30 hours of battery life. Priced at $69.99, it positioned itself as a premium collectible.
🔗 Full details and images from the leak can be found here: 8BitDo’s Xbox Rare 40th Anniversary Controller Leaks Early.
Neither 8BitDo nor Xbox has officially commented on the leak, but the timing aligns with rumors of a holiday 2025 release. Rare, founded in 1985, has been teasing anniversary celebrations for months, making this collaboration a fitting tribute. Industry insiders suggest the controller could debut alongside surprise game announcements or Xbox Game Pass additions from Rare’s back catalog.
Fans reacted with frenzied excitement on social media, though some expressed frustration over Amazon’s slip-up potentially affecting limited stock availability. "This was supposed to be a surprise," tweeted @RetroGamerDan. "Now scalpers will be ready."
As of publication, Amazon has pulled the listing, but cached descriptions confirm global availability. With Gamescom 2025 around the corner, an official reveal seems imminent. For collectors and Rare devotees, this leak—while accidental—only heightens anticipation for what’s poised to be one of the year’s most coveted gaming accessories.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
Key Takeaways:
- Design: Navy blue/gold scheme, Rare-branded, transparent faceplate.
- Features: Hall-effect sticks, remappable buttons, Xbox/PC compatibility.
- Price: $69.99 (leaked via Amazon).
- Status: Listing removed; official announcement pending.
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