Sofia Martinez
Game controllers are like small, specialised computers, using circuitry and electricity to perform functions that assist the user. The design of a controller can take months, with designers paying close attention to the controller's visual appeal and integrating visually striking elements, custom colour schemes, and iconic branding. The primary material used in game controllers is lightweight, sturdy plastic, moulded through an injection process. This involves heating the plastic until it liquefies and then injecting it into a mould shaped like a controller shell. After cooling and solidifying, the plastic forms the desired shape. Buttons, triggers, and joysticks also utilise plastic but may feature different finishes or coatings for enhanced grip or aesthetics. Some companies, like Xbox, are exploring ways to use less new plastic and reduce waste, such as by creating controllers made of recovered plastics from old CDs and plastic jugs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Shell | Plastic |
| Plastic type | Recovered plastics from old CDs and plastic jugs |
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What You'll Learn
Xbox controllers made from recovered plastics
Microsoft has demonstrated its commitment to sustainability by introducing a new Xbox Wireless Controller – Remix Special Edition, made from recovered plastics. This initiative is part of Xbox's broader goal to reduce waste and explore ways to use less new plastic. The controller is priced at $85 and is now available for pre-order worldwide, with an official release date of April 18, 2023, just a few days before Earth Day.
The new Xbox controller is crafted from a variety of recycled materials, including first-generation Xbox One controllers and other plastics. Specifically, these recycled plastics are sourced from car headlight covers, plastic water jugs, and CDs. The design of the controller tastefully incorporates Earth tones, taking inspiration from the green lichen found in the Pacific Northwest, where Microsoft's headquarters are located.
To further emphasize its connection to nature, the controller features unique texture patterns on the bumpers, triggers, and side grip areas, which are meant to evoke the Earth's dynamic landscape. In addition, the controller comes with a rechargeable battery pack, encouraging gamers to reduce their use of disposable batteries. This aligns with Xbox's recent update to become the first "carbon aware" console, with all Xbox consoles now defaulting to an energy-saving mode.
Microsoft has expressed its sustainability mission clearly, stating, "Our goal is to bring fans along with us on our journey towards greater sustainability across the Xbox product portfolio." This new Xbox controller made from recovered plastics is a testament to that commitment, offering gamers an opportunity to make a more sustainable choice while enjoying their favourite Xbox games.
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Plastic is moulded to make the controller shape
Game controllers are input devices that provide input to a video game or entertainment system. They have evolved from a simple dial and single button to now include directional pads, multiple buttons, analog sticks, joysticks, motion detection, touch screens, and other features.
The design of a game controller can take months, as it needs to be unique yet comfortable to hold for long periods. Two universal features of all controllers are a circuit board and a shell. The shell is typically made of plastic and is moulded to form the controller shape.
The plastic shell is moulded to accommodate the various features of the controller, such as the buttons, joysticks, and directional pads, while also ensuring a comfortable grip and ease of use. This process of plastic moulding involves heating and shaping the plastic material to the desired controller shape. The molten plastic is then allowed to cool and set, resulting in the formation of the controller's outer shell.
The PlayStation DualShock controller, for example, is known for its ergonomic design, with a winged shape and thoughtfully placed buttons. Other controllers, like the Xbox controller, feature texture patterns on the bumpers, triggers, and side grip areas, enhancing the user's experience.
As sustainability becomes a growing concern, companies like Microsoft are exploring ways to use less new plastic and incorporate recycled plastics in their controllers, such as in the Xbox Remix Special Edition controller, which also includes a rechargeable battery pack.
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Plastic sticks with a rubber cover
To prevent this, some people choose to use thumbstick covers, which are affordable and can be found in a variety of colours and styles. These covers go over the existing thumbsticks and provide a better grip, improving the gaming experience. They also protect the rubber coating from degradation, extending the life of the controller.
For example, Skull & Co. thumbstick grips are known for their superior grip and variety of colours. Additionally, convex grips are recommended for convex sticks and vice versa to ensure that the covers stay in place.
While some controllers, like the Steam Deck, have touch-sensitive concave thumbsticks, controllers with convex sticks like the 8BitDo Ultimate, DualSense, and Joycons can especially benefit from thumbstick covers. These covers improve grip and precision, making gaming more comfortable and accurate.
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Microsoft's journey towards sustainability
Microsoft has been actively working towards sustainability and has set ambitious goals to reduce its environmental impact. In 2020, the company announced its sustainability commitments and detailed plans to create a more sustainable future. By 2030, Microsoft aims to be carbon negative, removing all historical emissions since its founding in 1975. They also plan to replenish more water than they consume and be zero waste across their direct waste footprint.
Microsoft's sustainability journey involves multiple initiatives. Firstly, they are reducing the carbon intensity of their operations by procuring low-carbon products and services. They have also expanded into nuclear energy, contracted new renewable energy sources, and are investing in new climate technologies. Microsoft has committed to protecting and restoring the water basins where they operate and has launched a new datacenter design that consumes zero water for cooling.
The company is also working towards responsible sourcing and design of materials, aiming for zero waste by 2030. They have introduced recovered plastics into their products, such as the Xbox Wireless Controller – Remix Special Edition, which is made partly from reclaimed CDs, water jugs, and other controllers' parts. Microsoft is finding ways to reduce new plastic use and incorporate more Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) resins in their products, including Xbox controllers.
Microsoft's sustainability efforts extend beyond their own operations. They work with hundreds of suppliers to ensure transparency and ethical standards across their supply chain. Additionally, through the Microsoft AI for Good Lab, they support researchers worldwide in addressing sustainability challenges with AI-driven tools. Microsoft also collaborates with organizations like the United Nations, The Nature Conservancy, and the World Wildlife Fund to tackle broader climate challenges.
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Plastic shell and internal circuitry
Game controllers are input devices that provide input to a video game or entertainment system. They can also be input/output devices that receive data from the system and produce a response, such as vibration feedback or sound. Controllers have evolved to include directional pads, multiple buttons, analog sticks, joysticks, motion detection, touch screens, and more.
The plastic shell of a game controller is traditionally made by moulding plastic to form the proper controller shape. The shell is designed to be unique yet comfortable to hold for extended periods. The plastic shell houses the internal circuitry, which consists of a circuit board and various electronic components. These components work together to transmit input signals from the controller to the gaming system and, in the case of input/output controllers, to receive data from the system and produce responses.
The circuit board is the central component of the controller's circuitry, with buttons, joysticks, and other input mechanisms connected to it. These input mechanisms are typically made of plastic as well, with some featuring additional materials such as rubber covers for improved grip and tactile feedback. For example, the PlayStation DualShock controller features plastic sticks with rubber covers for a comfortable and responsive gaming experience.
Variable resistors, or potentiometers, are also crucial components in the controller's circuitry. These potentiometers are placed at right angles underneath the joysticks, and they constantly allow a specific amount of electric current to flow through them, depending on the resistance. This enables the controller to accurately interpret the user's movements and translate them into in-game actions.
As technology advances, game controllers are becoming more sustainable. For instance, the Xbox has released a controller made of recovered plastics from old CDs and plastic jugs, showcasing a commitment to reducing waste and promoting sustainability in the gaming industry. This trend towards sustainability is likely to continue as companies strive for greater environmental responsibility.
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Frequently asked questions
Game controllers are made of plastic, which is moulded to form the controller's shell.
The type of plastic used varies depending on the manufacturer and the specific controller model. It is typically lightweight and sturdy plastic, moulded through an injection process.
Plastic is used due to its lightweight and sturdy properties. It can also be easily moulded through an injection process, making it ideal for manufacturing.
Yes, some manufacturers are exploring ways to use less new plastic and reduce waste. For example, the Xbox Remix Special Edition controller is made of recovered plastics from old CDs and plastic jugs.
