Xbox Series X Carbon Black controller: Pre-orders are open NOW, the release date and price are confirmed, and yes it still needs AA batteries

Now that the Xbox Series X pre-orders have begun, you might also be thinking about ordering an extra controller - your options, right now, are either Carbon Black or Robot White.

And because Amazon is listing these extra controllers for pre-order, you can click either of those last two links to fly away and think about ordering one. Or you could click this next link.

BUY NOW:Next-gen Xbox controllers and consoles listed on Amazon

Keep reading for some extra info, including the confirmed price of an additional Xbox Series X/S controller...

Xbox Series X controller: Pre-orders confirm the price and release date

With the Carbon Black and Robot White controllers for Xbox Series X/S now listen on Amazon (you can click either of those links to go to a product page), there's no question about their release date and price.

Both colour options are listed at £54.99, and both of them will be released on 10th November 2020 - that's the same day the new Xbox consoles come out.

BUY NOW:Next-gen Xbox controllers and consoles listed on Amazon

Does the Xbox Series X controller need batteries?

With Microsoft dropping a ton of Xbox Series X specs that all seem to be driving technology forward, people were surprised at one controller-based choice in particular.

Start checking underneath your sofa and eyeing up which of your television remotes to sacrifice, because the newly revealed Xbox Wireless controller (which can be used with Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S or Xbox One) can be powered by old-fashioned AA batteries.

Yes, in a time of wireless recharging, Microsoft has decided to go against the grain. But why? We can explain this strange choice about the Xbox Series X controller with one word, 'Choice'.

"The Xbox Wireless Controller uses AA batteries in order to offer choice to players," explained a spokesperson from Microsoft. "This way, gamers can choose whether they use disposable AA batteries, rechargeable AA batteries or a rechargeable battery pack."

Youtuber Austin Evans had this to say with his hands-on: "Um...you know, obviously if you REALLY value AA batteries, that's an option..." That sums it up pretty well.

READ MORE:Our Xbox Series X pre-order guide is here

This new Xbox Wireless Controller will also work with PC and the Xbox One, meaning it could become a heavy usage peripheral for players that adopt it.

With meaningful changes to accommodate different hand sizes and an improved D-pad, not to mention the inclusion of a share button - it's slightly strange to see old-hat batteries included as an option.

That being said, hype behind the Xbox Series X is deservedly enormous right now and we can't wait to start playing with the next-gen consoles. Better stock up on batteries, then!

BUY NOW:Next-gen Xbox controllers and consoles listed on Amazon