The end of the year is shaping up to be a big one for SpongeBob SquarePants, as the hyper-energetic Goofy Goober fan has a new game out soon and a brand-new movie. To celebrate his big-screen return, Microsoft has revealed a new line of cursed Xbox controllers featuring the unblinking visage of SpongeBob. Just don’t stare too long into the abyss, because it might stare back and offer you a greasy Krabby Patty to go.
SpongeBob fans can pick up limited-edition versions of the regular Xbox controller and the Xbox Elite Series 2 controller. Both controllers feature the same graphic of SpongeBob–but the Elite Series 2 has “pants” on the handles–yellow thumbsticks, and an orange D-pad. The Xbox home button and X face buttons have also replaced SpongeBob’s pupils, but he seems to be in good spirits over being slightly inconvenienced.
Since both of these controllers will also be available through the Xbox Design Lab, you can further customize them with a variety of button styles and upgrades like metallic triggers and D-pads, rubberized side and back grips, and engravings. Sadly, there’s no option to give these devices a manly mustache makeover with some seaweed.
These controllers will pair nicely with SpongeBob SquarePants: Titans of the Tide. The new 3D platformer stars both SpongeBob and Patrick as they repair the damage done by King Neptune and the Flying Dutchman, and preorders are still open for the $40 standard edition and a $90 Ghostly Tides Edition.
If you feel like dropping $600 on SpongeBob merchandise–we know you’re reading this, Patchy the Pirate–you can also preorder a new full-size SpongeBob Squarepants claw machine from Arcade1Up. Just like the machines found in various malls and carnivals, this one even comes equipped with a “Scam Mode” to fleece you of your metaphorical pocket change.
