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Microsoft’s brand-new Gears of War: E-Day Xbox controller looks like it survived Emergence Day – now up for pre-order

Microsoft is celebrating the upcoming Gears of War: E-Day release with a new limited-edition Xbox Wireless Controller, and this one leans heavily into the darker look of the game. The controller features a battle-worn design inspired by Emergence Day, complete with cracked asphalt detailing, red accents, and the iconic Crimson Omen worked into the shell. It’s available to pre-order starting today for $89.99 shipped, while Microsoft is also preparing a separate customizable Gears of War: E-Day design for Xbox Design Lab later next month. Head below for a closer look at both controllers and the matching charging dock.

Gears of War: E-Day Xbox controller brings the Locust invasion to your setup

One of the design highlights on the new limited-edition controller is easily its shell, which takes inspiration from the E-holes seen throughout the Gears universe. Microsoft has used 3D-molded and laser-etched cracked asphalt detailing across the surface, with red-colored cracks running through the design to reveal the Crimson Omen underneath.

The rest of the controller follows the same theme, with blacked-out ABXY buttons joined by a transparent red X button, matching red triggers, and a transparent D-pad. There’s also a dark silver metallic COG tag on the battery door carrying the “Never Fight Alone” message, while textured grips round out the design. Underneath all of that, you’re still looking at Microsoft’s familiar Xbox Wireless Controller layout and functionality that we know and live.

A video game controller with red and black design

There’s a matching accessory up for grabs as well in the form of the 8BitDo Ultimate Charging Dock for Xbox Controllers – Gears of War: E-Day edition. This officially licensed dock carries the same battle-worn aesthetic and supports Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One wireless controllers. It includes a rechargeable battery pack and features magnetic alignment with drop-and-charge functionality, along with built-in overcharge and overheating protection.

Microsoft is also bringing Gears of War: E-Day to Xbox Design Lab starting September 30, although that version gets a completely different look. It features exclusive artwork from illustrator Luke Preece, with a skull sitting above crossed Lancers surrounded by additional skulls and battle-worn detailing. Since it’s a Design Lab offering, you’ll also be able to customize things like the triggers, D-pad, grips, and even add personalized engraving.

A close up of a game controller

The Gears of War: E-Day Limited Edition Xbox Wireless Controller is available to pre-order now for $89.99 shipped at Amazon. Both controller designs will also be shown publicly for the first time at gamescom 2026.

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Avatar for Karthik Iyer Karthik Iyer

Karthik Iyer is a writer at 9to5Toys, serving recommendations and deals on PC, games, computing parts, and other gaming accessories.


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