Meta and Microsoft have teamed up once again for a limited-time collaboration that’s turning heads in the gaming and VR world. Introducing the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Limited Edition — a sleek black-and-green version of the new Quest 3S headset, available now for $400.
This isn’t just a cosmetic upgrade. The limited edition bundle packs serious value. It includes a preinstalled Elite Strap for extra comfort, a wireless Xbox controller, and three months of both Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and Meta Horizon+ subscriptions. Of course, the standard Touch controllers are also included in the box, just like with the regular Quest 3S.
While it carries a $100 premium over the base Quest 3S, this bundle actually saves you about $100 if you were to buy all the components separately. But there’s a catch — it’s only available in limited quantities across select retailers in the US and UK. Once it’s sold out, it’s gone for good.
A Nod to Oculus History
This bundle feels like a throwback to the roots of Meta’s VR journey. When the original Oculus Rift launched in 2016, it came bundled with an Xbox controller — a reminder that gamepads were once the primary way to experience VR. While that changed with the introduction of Oculus Touch controllers later that year, the Xbox controller is making a nostalgic return, now as part of a more mature, well-rounded ecosystem.
With today’s Meta Quest platform supporting hand-tracked experiences like Maestro and Jigsaw Night, and controller-based adventures like Batman: Arkham Shadow and Deadpool VR, this bundle offers a great starting point for anyone diving into VR. Add the full Xbox Cloud Gaming library into the mix, and it becomes a pretty compelling all-in-one package for new users.
Is It Worth It?
For those already eyeing the Quest 3S, this bundle is certainly tempting. But it’s worth considering the broader landscape. The holiday season is just around the corner — typically a hotbed for new VR announcements and discounts. Several Horizon OS headsets are rumored to be in the pipeline via Meta partnerships, and Android XR headsets from companies like Samsung are expected soon. Valve, too, continues to develop its own next-gen headset.
Meanwhile, Meta is reportedly working on an ultralight headset with a tethered processing puck, aiming to compete with devices like the Apple Vision Pro.
So, should you jump on this Xbox-themed collector’s edition now or wait for what’s coming?
If your VR budget is under $600 and you’re planning to invest in a headset within the next 12 months, it’s a tough call. While the Quest 3S Xbox Edition is an excellent bundle with great value and nostalgic appeal, it might be smarter to wait — especially if you’re looking for the latest tech or the best deal this holiday season.
But for collectors, Xbox fans, or anyone who values immediate access to both VR and cloud gaming, this limited edition might just be the perfect launchpad into the Meta ecosystem.
