Windows PC gamers will be able to use the new Xbox One controller when official Microsoft support is introduced in 2014, the firm has told CVG.
Software is in the works that will not only add PC compatibility for the new controller, but will allow also allow it to work "seamlessly" with games designed to use the Xbox 360 pad.
But that requires substantial work due to vast architectural differences between the two controllers, as an MS spokesperson explained to CVG.
"As we've stated, the Xbox One controller, although it looks similar in many ways, shares no underlying technology with the current Xbox 360 controller. New wireless protocol, combined with the ability to work in 'wired' mode, and the addition of features like Impulse triggers, means that new software has to be written and optimized for the PC," said the rep.
"There is also some work that we need to do to make sure that existing PC games that support the Xbox 360 controller, will work with the Xbox One controller. While it seems trivial, it's actually quite a bit of dedicated work for all that to be seamless for the user," they went on to explain.
"We know people want to use the Xbox One controller on their PC, and we do too - we expect to have the functionality available in 2014."
CVG today published an interview with Xbox Accessories general manager Zulfi Alam, who discussed in detail the many improvements the firm has made to the next-gen controller and how it will improve gaming on Xbox One.
Xbox One will be available in 21 markets this November. The Xbox One price has been set at £425 / €499 / $499.

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...ility-in-2014/