The transparent green of the original Xbox wasn’t some random design choice; it was a symbol of an era when consoles began showcasing their inner workings, literally. Multiple game consoles opted for the see-through aesthetic (notably Nintendo), with even Steve Jobs and Apple jumping onto the bandwagon with their candy-colored Macs. That same transparency has found new relevance in today’s tech landscape, led by companies like Nothing, which has revitalized see-through aesthetics. Given that fashion trends are cyclical, and that everyone loves a little bit of reminiscing, 8BitDo’s Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard and Retro R8 Mouse – Xbox Edition – reimagine nostalgia with a modern twist, bringing Xbox-inspired designs into everyday peripherals.
The Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard feels like a portal back to the early 2000s, dressed in the same vibrant green hue that adorned the iconic Transparent Green Xbox. But this is more than a mere homage. With Kailh Jellyfish X switches under its keys, the keyboard offers a typing experience that’s satisfyingly tactile and precise. Gamers and typists alike will appreciate the n-key rollover and the durability of its double-layered ABS keycaps. A matte UV coating ensures that every keystroke leaves its mark on your gaming session, not the hardware.
Designer: 8bitdo
As you plug it in, the keyboard’s RGB backlight adds a dynamic edge, bathing your setup in customizable color. This lighting isn’t purely decorative; it’s a visual companion, perfect for late-night gaming marathons or a subtle office glow. The multiple connectivity options—wired USB, 2.4 GHz wireless, and Bluetooth 5.0—make it as versatile as it is stylish. Whether tethered to a Windows machine or paired with an Android device, the Retro 87 maintains seamless functionality.
However, the quirks in compatibility might give you pause. Despite being an Xbox-licensed product, the keyboard doesn’t officially support Xbox consoles. This limitation is peculiar, especially considering the design roots. Yet, in practical terms, its focus on PC and mobile connectivity ensures broader utility for everyday users.
The Retro R8 Mouse, on the other hand, feels like the keyboard’s adventurous sibling. Compact and lightweight at just 77 grams, it glides effortlessly across surfaces, guided by the PAW 3395 sensor. Gamers will love the six adjustable DPI levels, which allow precise cursor control for every genre, from FPS headshots to strategic command-and-conquer moves. The variable polling rate, configurable through 8BitDo’s Ultimate Software, ensures that every click feels instant, a vital feature in competitive gaming.
What truly sets the mouse apart, though, is its charging dock. Echoing the same transparent green finish, the dock doubles as a display piece, proudly showcasing the mouse while keeping it charged. Battery life is another highlight—100 hours in Bluetooth mode or up to 105 hours with 2.4 GHz wireless. These figures underscore 8BitDo’s commitment to practicality, ensuring you spend more time gaming and less time hunting for a charging cable.
Together, these peripherals serve as a love letter to both Xbox fans and design enthusiasts. The attention to detail, from the hardware choices to the nostalgic color palette, speaks to a brand that understands the importance of aesthetics and functionality. Yet, this release isn’t just about looking back; it’s about reinterpreting the past for today’s tech-savvy users.
What makes 8BitDo’s approach so engaging is their willingness to embrace nostalgia without being shackled by it. The transparent green finish is an instant trip down memory lane – something 8bitdo’s done remarkably well with a lot of its retro-inspired hardware, especially hat-tipping the Nintendo NES.
For anyone who grew up with an Xbox controller in hand, these devices are bound to evoke a smile. But they’re not just for retro enthusiasts. Whether you’re a gamer looking for performance upgrades or a design aficionado drawn to the interplay of form and function, the Retro 87 and R8 Mouse deliver a blend of familiarity and innovation that’s hard to resist. It’s nostalgia with a purpose—because sometimes, looking back is the best way to move forward.
