For some reason, Microsoft didn't want to let anyone else make wireless controllers for the 360. It took serious cajoling from Activision and EA just to make wireless instruments a possibility. But now it appears that ol' MS is opening the floodgates, as they've just signed a multi-year agreement with Mad Catz, allowing them to produce a wide variety of wireless controllers.
Well, actually the deal is very specific. According to the press release, "Mad Catz has global rights to manufacture, market and sell Xbox 360-branded wireless specialty videogame controllers." This sounds like we won't be seeing any standard 360 controller wireless redesigns anytime soon.
We will, however, probably see a smattering of fight pads, joysticks and flight yokes. Great news, but I'd still love to see someone take a stab at redesigning the standard controller's d-pad. It's the one weakness in an otherwise excellent piece of hardware.
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