Microsoft unveiled a new wireless controller for its Xbox 360 game console. The new controller, which has analog sticks and a rising D-Pad, is scheduled to go on sale on November 9.

The D-pad marks the biggest change to the game controller. The often-neglected feature had been relegated as a second tier controller function. The ever-present D-pad had been reduced for use as a toggle for secondary weapons, a wheel for weapons selection and a flashlight power switch.

The new Xbox360 controller aims to make the D-pad more usable. The D-pad will now rise up about a quarter of an inch. The change might not seem mind-blowing, but fighting game fans would probably appreciate the alteration.

The new Xbox 360 controller also has a new monochrome color scheme for the buttons to match the hardware's silver and black color and a deeper concave design for the analog sticks. The controller will cost $64.99 and will come packaged with a play-and-charge rechargeable battery kit. The controller's November 9 release date will coincide with the launch of Call of Duty: Black Ops, the new installment of the popular gaming series. The controller is expected to be released in Europe by February of next year. The company has yet to announce when the new controllers will be bundled in as part of the Xbox 360 console.