Skip to main content

Here’s an Xbox One controller you can play with in the pool

If you live, breathe, and sweat Xbox every waking hour, then here’s a little something to further feed your rampant addiction to Microsoft’s gaming platform.

The exquisite Xbox Inflatable is perfect for outdoor fun in the pool or ocean, though if you’re wondering why on earth it’s launching now – what with frigid temperatures enveloping much of the U.S. – then we can tell you. It’s because the toy comes courtesy of Microsoft Australia, a country currently enjoying summery conditions. Because it’s summer there.

If you hadn’t noticed, this unique inflatable has been designed to resemble the Xbox One game controller, and no, it can’t be hooked up to the console to use for real. However, if any gaming sessions leave you mad and frustrated, hurling it across the room in a fit of rage will probably cause fewer breakages than the real controller, so it may be effective in that regard.

Unlike the real thing, Microsoft’s inflatable is fully waterproof, and even comes fitted with two drink holders – in place of the view and menu buttons – for when you’re lazing out on the water.

If you happen to be wondering how you can get your hands on this wonderful collectible, then we need to be clear – it won’t be easy. Microsoft only has 200 up for grabs. Oh, and you need to be an Aussie resident, too.

Eligible? Then head to the Microsoft Store Facebook page, click Like, and explain in 25 words or less your ideal Australia Day. Good luck with that.

This latest fun idea from Microsoft Australia brings to mind the Xbox Onesie released by the team last year.

The head-to-toe PJs feature not only the Xbox logo but also two large pockets – perfect for holding the controllers – and a pouch on one of the arms for your phone.

As for the inflatable, perhaps Microsoft will consider offering U.S. Xbox fans the same toy once the warmer weather comes around later this year. Though admittedly, if you’re a genuine die-hard gamer, you probably won’t have time to use it.

Trevor Mogg
Contributing Editor
Not so many moons ago, Trevor moved from one tea-loving island nation that drives on the left (Britain) to another (Japan)…
This is your last chance to get some heavily discounted Xbox 360 games
A chopper-esque contraption flying towards a giant monster in a city. The player character is shooting a gun at it.

Microsoft announced last year that it would be shutting down the Xbox 360 Marketplace at the end of July, but it's not over just yet. Xbox is running a massive fire sale on a number of games, with some going as low as $1.

Players won't be able to purchase any products through the storefront after it goes offline on July 29. While you can still download and play games you already own, you won't be able to watch movies or TV since the Movies & TV app will also stop working on that date. That means now is your last chance to fill up your library.

Read more
This new Xbox Deadpool butt controller raises a lot of questions
A closeup of the Deadpool butt controller. It's red and the back looks like Deadpool's butt cheeks. The text on the image says "Designed by Deadpool xoxo"

Is an Xbox controller with a butt on the back actually comfortable to use? Somebody is about to find out. Xbox announced a limited edition controller on Wednesday that promotes the upcoming Deadpool & Wolverine movie. It's designed to look like Deadpool's backside, complete with a "perfectly rounded tush," according to a post on Xbox Wire.

The accessory is very over the top. The front looks like a mostly regular red Xbox controller with a unique, ridged surface. The two handles, which resemble Deadpool's legs, have straps on them, and if you turn it around, you'll be treated to a pair of prominent buns.

Read more
Forget the DualSense Edge. This is the best PS5 controller you can buy this Prime Day
A Victrix Pro BFG and all its parts sit splayed out on a table.

This Prime Day, you may find yourself in the market for a new PS5 controller. You could get a standard DualSense for under $70 -- and even get one in a fancy color -- but you might be looking for something a little more premium to get a better deal. Your eye might instead be drawn to the DualSense Edge, Sony's answer to the Xbox Elite Series 2. But there's an even better option.

The Victrix Pro BFG is for $165. It may not be a first-party Sony controller, but it's still the best PS5 gamepad you can buy right now.

Read more