If you're really set on it, you could buy a Hyperkin Duke. That's a modern, officially licensed recreation of the OG Xbox controller with USB XInput support

I forgot how insanely chunky the original Xbox controller was. You must have big hands to want to use it again.

The original Xbox controllers work fine on the Deck as is, just need a USB adapter. The ports are already USB but with a proprietary connector, so adapter cables should be cheap. Only issue is that there is no home/guide button to bring up the Steam overlay.

Thanks for all the replies! Ordered two adapters and will post the result here :)

https://www.reddit.com/r/linux_gaming/comments/3vmarb/the_first_xbox_controller_on_linux/

maybe it's possible, try and share here :)

I remember back in the day I just cut up one of the breakaway cables to remove the end that plugged into the Xbox and wired it up to a male USB end so I could use it with my PC; since it was already basically USB, but with 1 extra useless wire and a different plug type. It required a special driver though.

I could potentially see the only issue being a lack of a driver for it on Linux; but it seems unlikely. This is right up the average Linux enthusiast's alley.

I don't know if this helps you any, but my main controller I use for my steam deck when it's in docked mode is an old Xbox 360 controller and I have one of those USB cord adapters.

mine is not an original Xbox controller, but it does work with the little dongle you can get for them.