A third-party Xbox controller ban may potentially remove your ability to use anything but Microsoft’s own hardware.
If your console controller of choice isn't an official Xbox device then you might soon be in trouble. A new hardware policy from Microsoft that goes into effect on Nov. 12, 2023 will essentially be an Xbox controller ban, removing third-party hardware support. What does this mean? For some, the submarine controller you bought off Amazon will do you no good. For others, such as the fighting game community, it means the entire scene is in danger.
Yes, soon you might have to buy actual controllers and stop giving your friends that Mad Catz, funhouse mirror controller you bought for a nickel. Let's look at the series of events around this potential move.
Xbox controller ban on the way?
The culprit in this potential Xbox controller ban begins with error message 0x82d60002. Users in the UK began reporting this error appearing on their devices when using third-party controllers. "Using unauthorised accessories compromises your gaming experience. For this reason, the unauthorised accessory will be blocked from use on 11/12/2023. For help returning it, check with the store it came from or contact the manufacturer."
The new warning message stems from an updated console build, 10.0.25398.2266, released on Oct. 16. It wasn't until recently that users on Reddit noticed that the update borked their set-ups. Reports on the F1 gaming sub-Reddit show some players having issues with their Thrustmaster and Logitech racing wheels.
However, the biggest concern when it comes to a third-party Xbox controller ban stems from the FGC, fight sticks, and controller adapters.
Brook Gaming responds
If you aren't familiar with Brook Gaming, know that they make controller adapters. This allows fightstick users to take their expensive controller across consoles, using a PlayStation stick with Xbox and vice versa. However, the company also makes a number of adapters that allow players to use any USB-based controller with any console. For instance, I've used a Brook adapter in the past to use my PlayStation controller on Switch.
Obviously, any potential Xbox controller ban puts Brook and its products at risk. The company responded on social media last week with this message.
Dear gamers, We extend our heartfelt appreciation for your unwavering support and interest in Brook. We find it necessary to share crucial information with you regarding our Xbox console-related products, which may encounter functional disruptions in the near future.
Recently. we have received player feedback concerning these products when used on Xbox consoles (the latest OS version 10.0.25398.2266. released on 10/16) during online gameplay. An error message may appear: "A connected accessory is not authorized." We deeply regret any inconvenience this may cause you. The Brook engineering team is fully committed to developing a solution to maintain product quality and functionality. Please trust that we will spare no effort in identifying potential solutions. Once further updates become available. we will promptly notify you through our official community platforms.
Xbox controllers and the future
It appears the error message and future issues will have to do with companies paying for certification and licensing. So, while your Logitech or SCUF controller may be safe, the FGC and its controller swapping days may be in danger. This would be a shame, as one of the things I love about fighting game tournaments is that you see a wide variety of accessibility.
From the popular Hit Box controller and players using keyboards to one guy straight-up winning EVO with an OG PlayStation controller, it's a cornucopia of options. In reality, this means that Xbox is further positioned to not be the hardware of choice for tournaments. This was already the case, as Sony literally owns the EVO tournament series.
Stay tuned to esports.gg for esports news and FGC information.