PopeArt Xbox Controller Review: ‘The Best Custom Designs Around’

POPEART CUSTOM XBOX CONTROLLER REVIEW.

While PlayStation and Xbox might have increased the quantity of controller colors that they pump out, they are all still pretty lacking in the looks department. At best, we get a subtle game logo or graphic to accompany a unique colorway. It’s all subtle and, I’d argue, pretty boring. Thankfully, designers like PopeArt are here to do custom controller designs properly.

Meet the master

For those who haven’t seen his trending designs across social media and clicked on his profile to learn more, PopeArt is known for his incredibly imaginative designs which have most recently been applied to the current series Xbox Series and PS5 DualSense controllers.

The designer has worked with a huge number of brands for special limited edition versions of products. These include Square Enix, Ubisoft, EA, Bethesda, and Xbox itself.

PopeArt goes all-out when putting together a new controller design, very rarely leaving any space blank, which is a stark contrast to the official colorways. Often, you can tell it’s a PopeArt design from just looking at how comprehensive it is. Some may describe that as “busy,” but I love the completeness of the aesthetic.

I wish I could eat it

When it came to choosing my sample for review, I was honestly spoilt for choice. Defy Gaming hosts a large number of PopeArt controllers on its storefront. I ultimately opted for the “Ice Cream” design, though the “Doughnut” was a close second choice.

Upon receiving the controller, I appreciated the custom packaging and “Certificate of Authenticity” included within. When it came to assessing the controller itself, all I could say was “Wow.” Everything from the colors to the soft touch finish to the 3D texture is immaculately done. The fact that I can feel the cone and sprinkles really adds to the overall experience.

It’s clear that PopeArt takes pride in his work. Upon close inspection, I can’t see any scratches or scuffs — it looks and feels perfect. This is exactly what you want to see from a premium product like this. PopeArt met the high expectations that I had.

Go Elite

PopeArt’s designs are clearly aimed at Xbox enthusiasts. The issue here is that I feel like most hardcore Xbox fans are going to want an Elite Series controller, complete with paddles, tunable triggers, and all of the modularity it boasts. Sadly, PopeArt doesn’t appear interested in custom designs for that model.

Perhaps the moving parts of the Elite Series pad cause too much of a headache or maybe the total cost would be too hefty to sell. I don’t know what the issue is, but it’s something I’d love to see later down the line.

Of course, I imagine some of PopeArt’s customers will simply be displaying the controller, instead of playing with it. That’s totally understandable and for them the additional functionality bestowed by the Elite Series would be a waste.

PopeArt Xbox Controller Review: The final verdict

The standard Xbox Series controller has a $69.99 RRP. That means the premium paid for a £129.99 ($144) PopeArt pad essentially doubles the price. That may well be a turn-off for most players. However, for those who value the look and feel of the many great designs on offer, the cost will be a worthy investment.

All of the people I’ve shown this “Ice Cream” controller to have been left in awe. It really looks that good. If you’re looking for the next level in Xbox controllers and don’t want to go down the Elite Series route, then PopeArt has got you covered with an arsenal of the best custom designs that I’ve seen.

PopeArt Xbox Controller review unit was provided by Defy Gaming.