Summary

    • A new “Joyful” version of Astro Bot PS5 Controller is arriving on October 30, 2025, with pre-orders starting on September 12.
    • Features closed, smiling eyes instead of the original open-eyed design, creating a more joyful expression. 
    • Costs around $80, similar to the original, but may potentially sell out immediately for its design.

Now is the chance to get the Astro Bot DualSense controller if you missed out on the original release last year. Sony officially announced that they are bringing back the Astro Bot-themed controller with a new “Joyful” look. The changes will be subtle but charming to many PS5 fans out there. Take a closer look more on the details of the upcoming PS5 Astro Bot Controller.

When Is PS5 Astro Bot Controller Release Date

PS5 fans will get their hands on Astro Boy Joyful DualSense Wireless controller as early as October 30, 2025. This upgraded version of the popular controller will start pre-orders on September 12, 2025. You can get it through PlayStation’s official online store at direct.playstation.com and other participating retailers. 

Last year, the Astro Bot controller received an overwhelming response from the community, instantly selling out upon release. So, with this new version, it will be best to ready your computers even before the pre-orders go live. They may quickly become unavailable through official channels, leaving you options to buy from secondary markets. However, the prices will get higher on this platform given the limited quantities.

Key Design Differences from the Original

The upcoming PS5 Astro Bot Joyful controller is keeping the same beloved white and blue color scheme. Still, it resembles the iconic Astro Bot appearance, but only with an enhanced look of the touchpad design. From the wide-open eyes on the 2024 release, it is now with closed, smiling eyes.

Although subtle, this change transforms the controller’s personality for a more joyful and less intense expression. Plus, many users previously noted how the watching eyes from the previous design somewhat feel unsettling. So, the joyful version somehow erased this notion and brought character to the controller.

Although the rest of the controller retains all the beloved design from the original Astro Bot version. You can still see the details and distinct features of the collection that made it a hit among gamers and collectors.

Expected Pricing and Availability Challenges

For now, Sony hasn’t officially shared the price for the Joyful edition. Yet, some industry experts are pointing to a similar $80 price point from the original Astro Bot controller. However, these are speculations as the price can be slightly higher, considering other recent limited-edition controller releases.

It will get even higher once the Joyful edition sells out in the official store, leaving alternatives to the secondary market. Resellers have been causing headaches to many fans and collectors with the insane pricing of items. They already did this on previous Astro Bot merchandise, so the situation can repeat.

The Legacy of Astro Bot’s Success

The demand for Astro Bot controllers was high following the massive success of the game itself. After its release on September 6, 2024, the 3D platformer led the celebration of PlayStation’s 30th anniversary. It claimed Game of the Year during The Game Awards 2024, beating heavy titles like Elden Ring and more.

This has been one of the biggest hits last year, even extending demands on related merchandise. It made the Astro Bot Controller one of the sought-after gaming accessories in 2024. Besides the fans, many PlayStation enthusiasts eyed getting the unique hardware.

Final Thoughts

PS5 Astro Bot Controller is coming back with an extra charming look for the “Joyful” edition on October 30, 2025. Fans and gamers who want to get their hands on these controllers should anticipate their pre-order on September 12. Make sure to be there early and check out the controllers as fast as you can. Surely, there are lots of competitors that are also eyeing this new design.

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Hi there, it’s Stal! If you loved that article, make sure to check out these other articles I’ve written just for you. See you there!

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