Xbox 360 Controller Now for Windows

Microsoft on Wednesday introduced its first controller that would work on both the Xbox 360 and Windows XP PCs. The cross-platform support is another effort by the company to integrate the gaming console as tightly as possible into the Windows ecosystem.

Although the wired controller that comes with the Xbox 360 will also work with Windows after downloading the necessary driver, Microsoft is offering a dedicated retail package designed for Windows gamers. The controller would also work automatically with the Xbox 360.

The company says this will ease the process of creating multi-platform titles for developers, which the industry seconded.

"Microsoft's new cross-platform controller will make it easier for Electronic Arts to develop games for both Windows and Xbox 360. It also promises to help bring our top-notch catalog of sports, driving and action games to wider audiences," EA senior vice president John Schappert said in a statement.

The controller is available in North America for $39.99 USD. Microsoft says it expects to ship the device in Europe and Asia shortly.