Xbox Controller – Lunar Shift Special Edition

Not every collectible needs a game attached to it. The Xbox Controller Lunar Shift Special Edition is one of those rare pieces of hardware that earns its spot in a display case purely on looks. This Xbox One compatible special edition controller features a translucent purple shell that shifts to blue depending on the light, rubberized grips, and the kind of finish that photographs beautifully but somehow looks even better in person.

Microsoft's special edition controller line has become a collecting category all its own, and for good reason. These are limited production runs with colorways that never come back once they sell through. The Lunar Shift sits in a particularly sweet spot, combining a color palette that appeals to both retro sensibilities and modern aesthetics.

It's the kind of piece that catches someone's eye from across the room and starts a conversation. For those of us who collect controllers alongside our games, these special editions are the bookends that tie a shelf together. They fill the visual gaps between big box collector's editions and give a collection texture.

And unlike most collectibles, you can actually pick this one up and use it. The dual nature of display piece and functional hardware makes it unique in any collection. Production on these colorways is finite.

Microsoft moves on to the next design, and that's it. The Lunar Shift is already well past its initial retail window, which means the supply only moves in one direction from here.