Rare is turning 40, and to mark the occasion, the iconic game studio has partnered with 8BitDo to release a stunning special edition controller. The 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode Controller – Rare 40th Anniversary Edition isn’t just a nostalgic nod to four decades of gaming history; it’s also one of the most feature-rich third-party controllers 8BitDo has ever produced.
For fans of Rare the studio behind classics like Banjo-Kazooie, Battletoads, Perfect Dark, and Sea of Thieves this is more than just a controller. It’s a celebration.
A Collector’s Dream
The controller’s design is instantly eye-catching. A royal blue body accented with gold trim evokes Rare’s classic logo colours. Two custom thumbstick caps stand out as playful tributes: one shaped like the iconic jigsaw piece from Banjo-Kazooie, the other a skull symbol from Sea of Thieves. The D-pad is finished in a golden metallic tone, and on the faceplate, a subtle but striking “40 RARE” logo is embossed a reminder of the legacy behind the design.
Even the charging dock that comes with the controller is styled to match, making this a true collector’s centerpiece whether it’s on display or in use.
Premium Features and Cross-Platform Support
But this isn’t just a pretty face.
It’s also the first time 8BitDo has released an officially licensed wireless Xbox controller. It supports three connection modes: a 2.4GHz wireless dongle for Xbox consoles and PCs, Bluetooth for mobile or casual use, and USB-C wired connectivity.
The controller comes equipped with Hall effect joysticks, which reduce the risk of stick drift over time a big plus for gamers who like their gear to last. You’ll also find impulse triggers, remappable buttons, and three custom profile slots, all configurable through the 8BitDo Ultimate Software suite. Battery life clocks in at around 20 hours, and when docked, the controller automatically reconnects and charges a small touch that makes a big difference in daily use.
The Timing Is Bittersweet
While this announcement should be a slam dunk celebration, it lands during a tumultuous period for Rare. Reports of layoffs and project cancellations including the mysterious Everwild have clouded the studio’s recent months. Still, this controller, along with other anniversary efforts like in-game events in Sea of Thieves and new merch from Fangamer and iam8bit, is helping remind fans of what made Rare special in the first place.
Where to Get It
The 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode Controller Rare 40th Anniversary Edition is available now for $89.99 USD, with limited stock expected due to its commemorative nature. It’s being sold through official retailers including Amazon, Best Buy, and the 8BitDo website.
Whether you’re a die-hard Rare fan, a long-time Xbox player, or just someone who appreciates great controller design, this release feels like something worth celebrating both for its function and its legacy.
Rare helped shape generations of gamers, and this controller feels like a thoughtful tribute to that legacy. It doesn’t just look good it performs well, too. More than just an accessory, it’s a reminder of the creativity and magic that has defined Rare for the past four decades.
And with any luck, it’s a sign that even brighter things are still ahead.
1-Up Games 