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| On Reddit, fans are showing what the Xbox Series X25 could look like in different transparent colors. |
Could Microsoft follow in Nintendo’s footsteps and unleash a rainbow of see-through consoles? The gaming community is already dreaming big.
Microsoft surprised fans earlier this year when it unveiled the Xbox Series X25 – a special anniversary edition that swaps the standard matte black finish for a striking transparent “OG Green” chassis. The nostalgic design, complete with an illuminated green Xbox logo and a matching translucent controller, immediately turned heads. Under the hood, it’s the same powerful console you can already grab on Amazon for $598, but the retro aesthetic has sparked a much bigger conversation.
And now, one Reddit user has taken that conversation to the next level – by showing the world exactly what a full lineup of transparent Xbox Series X25 models could look like.
One fan’s vision: nine transparent colors that could “significantly boost” Xbox sales
On the r/Xbox subreddit, user u/Eastern-Mobile5351 shared a beautifully crafted render showcasing the Xbox Series X25 in nine different transparent color variants. Think classic clear, vivid blue, fiery orange, deep purple, and even a striking crimson red – each with a matching see-through controller.
The post quickly gained traction, with the user arguing that Microsoft could “significantly boost console sales” by offering such a range. Given the lukewarm reception to some special editions in the past, the community’s response was overwhelmingly positive. Hundreds of comments poured in, with many calling the idea “an instant buy” or “exactly what Xbox needs right now.”
“I haven’t purchased a new console in three years. I would pre-order a transparent purple one tomorrow,” one user wrote.
The buzz was enough that you can check out the original thread and renders for yourself right here: These transparent Xbox Series X25 models need to become a reality.
Nintendo set the gold standard – and fans haven’t forgotten
Of course, the idea of translucent gaming hardware isn’t new. It’s actually a deep cut of ‘90s nostalgia, and the top comment on the Reddit thread wisely pointed out a key historical precedent.
One skeptical voice asked: “Why would Microsoft invest this much effort in a console nearing the end of its life cycle?”
The reply that stole the show? “Happened with the Nintendo 64 at the end of its life and it was glorious.”
And that reply is spot on. Back in 1999-2000, as the N64 was winding down before the GameCube’s launch, Nintendo released the legendary “Funtastic” series of transparent consoles. Shoppers could choose from grape purple, jungle green, fire orange, ice blue, smoke black, and watermelon red – all with matching controllers. Those designs were initially seen as a last hurrah, but today they’re among the most sought-after collector’s items in retro gaming.
The lesson? A late-cycle transparent refresh doesn’t have to be a desperate move. Done right, it becomes legendary.
Will Microsoft actually deliver? Here’s what we know (and don’t know)
So, is there any concrete sign that Microsoft plans to expand beyond that single OG Green edition?
As of now, no. Microsoft has made no official announcements about additional transparent color variants for the Xbox Series X25. The anniversary model remains a limited, one-off design.
But before you close this tab, consider the timing. The Xbox Next (whatever Microsoft ends up calling its true next-generation console) isn’t expected until 2027 at the earliest, according to multiple industry analysts and leaked court documents from the FTC trial. That gives the current Series X – and its X25 spin-off – plenty of remaining shelf life.
With roughly two years (or more) until a new generation arrives, Microsoft has a very real window to test the waters. Limited-run transparent consoles drive hype, reward loyal fans, and generate easy media coverage. And as the Nintendo 64 proved, they can even create a whole new collector’s market for a “dying” console.
Why this matters for Microsoft’s bottom line
Let’s talk business for a moment. Xbox hardware sales have consistently trailed PlayStation this generation. While Game Pass is Microsoft’s true champion, console sales still matter for ecosystem lock-in and accessory revenue.
A series of eye-catching, limited-edition transparent consoles would accomplish several goals at once:
- Drive impulse purchases from existing Xbox owners who want a fresh look.
- Attract nostalgic gamers who grew up with Atomic Purple Game Boys and Funtastic N64s.
- Create social media buzz – transparent hardware is inherently shareable.
- Boost average selling price without any internal hardware changes (just new plastic shells).
And let’s not forget the controller opportunity. Microsoft already sells a wide range of Xbox controllers. A whole line of transparent “X25” gamepads in multiple colors could fly off shelves even for people who don’t want a whole new console.
The bottom line: hope isn’t lost
There are no leaks, no trademarks, and no job postings hinting at rainbow transparent Xboxes. But there’s also no reason Microsoft couldn’t do it. The manufacturing changes are minimal compared to designing a whole new console. The fan demand is clearly there – just look at the Reddit thread’s 10,000+ upvotes and hundreds of “shut up and take my money” comments.
If you’re hoping to see a shelf full of ice blue, sunset orange, and emerald green Xbox Series X25 consoles before the generation ends, you’re not alone. And you’ve got a pretty powerful argument on your side: Nintendo did it first, and it worked beautifully.
For now, the only transparent Xbox you can actually buy is that original “OG Green” anniversary edition. And if you want the standard Series X (same performance, classic black look), it’s waiting for you on Amazon for $598. But if the gaming gods are kind – and Microsoft listens to its fans – we might just see a full transparent rainbow before the Xbox Next arrives.
Would you buy a transparent Xbox Series X25 in a color other than green? Let us know in the comments – and don’t forget to check out the original renders on Reddit.
