Xbox at 25: the original console's look returns in anniversary hardware
Microsoft's 2026 showcase connects its 2001 roots to limited-edition Series X and controller designs.
Xbox's 25th year has a particularly tangible throwback: Microsoft's 2026 Games Showcase introduced a limited-edition Xbox Series X25 and special controller drawing on the look of the original Xbox.
The design callbacks
Xbox Wire describes a translucent Series X25 design inspired by the first Xbox and a matching wireless controller that revisits the original ABXY colours. The bumpers pay tribute to the black-and-white buttons on the original oversized 'Duke' controller.
What's confirmed?
The original showcase announcement named November 2026 for the limited-edition collection in selected markets, with the controller also available separately. 'Selected markets' matters: an overseas reveal is not proof of Australian stock or an Australian price.
A quarter century of changes
From the first Xbox to Xbox Live, the Xbox 360, Game Pass and today's PC-linked ecosystem, Microsoft has repeatedly changed how it wants players to access games. This anniversary hardware is both a collector's design and a reminder of that shifting identity. Confirm local retailer details before ordering.
Sources & verification
Original source published: . References reviewed 29 Oct 2026 AEST.