That's a strange one. I've used the same 12 energizer rechargeables for like 4 years and the new controllers (have 2) haven't behaved any differently than the old ones in my experience. Would think it's a defective controller in that case....not sure if the controllers are still in warranty? prob not.I’m also having another issue with my Series X controller not wanting to recognize my rechargeable batteries. It acts like it’s dead. Try the batteries in my other controllers works fine. I have to keep moving the batteries around and eventually the controller turns completely on.