I attended the Tokyo Game Show this year for the first time. I was able to use the new XBox controller with the newly redesigned D-Pad. I wasn't able to use it on a game that really used the D-Pad, but I was able to play around with it while testing a different game: El Shaddai. I really wish I could have tested it on a game like Marvel vs. Capcom 3, but the lines for it were longer than I wished to wait.

The coolest thing about the new D-Pad was that you can twist the D-Pad and it changes from a flat disc style to a style that has the cross more defined.

Moving around the D-Pad felt really nice. It had a tight clicking to it. I reminded me of my Hori fighting stick, but on a smaller scale. It seems like it is quite a bit smaller than the original pad. I am not sure how this will effect those of us with bear paws, but it is a huge step up for fighting game fans on the Xbox.

The price is going to be a little steep for this guy. It is going to be around $65 and you can only get it with the Play & Charge kit.