Microsoft has confirmed a shortage of Xbox controllers
Microsoft has acknowledged a shortage of Xbox controllers after many major retailers sold out completely this month.
At the time of writing, major retailers in multiple regions are completely sold out of Xbox Wireless Controllers, and the peripherals seem to be particularly scarce across Europe.
In the UK, there are currently no controllers, in any colour, in stock at retailers GAME, Smyths, Argos, Currys or even the official Microsoft Store.
Amazon UK is one of the few retailers with stock of the Carbon Black controller, which was newly added today (it was sold out yesterday). Third-party prices on Amazon for the black controller start at £93.99, nearly double the official price.
The situation appears to be similar in many regions, with Resetera forum users discussing their difficulty in locating controllers in various countries including Australia, France, the Netherlands and Germany.
Xbox confirmed the controller shortage following an enquiry by VGC, attributing it to supply disruptions.
“We know it might be hard finding Xbox Wireless Controllers right now due to supply disruptions,” a Microsoft spokesperson told us. “We’re working as fast as possible with our manufacturing and retail partners to improve this. Please check with your local retailers for availability.”
Stock seems to be somewhat more readily available in the US for now, with availability in the Microsoft Store and Best Buy, though some sites such as Amazon US and GameStop are currently only selling pre-owned controllers, suggesting supplies aren’t plentiful in the region.
More to follow…
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