The console wars between gaming giants have taken an unexpected turn from living rooms to footwear collections this holiday season. Microsoft has officially entered the bizarre merchandise arena with Xbox-themed Crocs, while Nintendo's Kirby slippers have been causing quite a stir on social media platforms.
The Xbox Crocs Controller Design
Microsoft is launching its own limited edition Xbox-themed Crocs on Tuesday at 5pm through the official Crocs website. Rather than simply slapping an Xbox logo on standard Crocs, the company has designed them to resemble an actual Xbox controller.
The footwear features fixed buttons and joysticks protruding from the surface, creating a three-dimensional controller effect that's both unusual and distinctive. The design demonstrates Microsoft's commitment to creating unique gaming merchandise that stands out from typical branded products.
Each pair comes with a pack of five charms based on major Xbox franchises: Halo, Sea Of Thieves, Fallout, Doom, and World of Warcraft. Microsoft claims the Crocs "offer the perfect comfort, perfect for couch co-op sessions, relaxing at home, or levelling up your everyday look," though wearing them outdoors would require considerable confidence.
Nintendo's Viral Kirby Slippers
While Microsoft prepares its Crocs launch, Nintendo has already captured attention with Kirby slippers available through US retailer BoxLunch Gifts. The pink puffball slippers have gained notoriety on social media, with many users noting their unfortunate resemblance to certain intimate body parts.
The Kirby slippers typically cost $14.90 (approximately £11) but are currently discounted to $8.94 (just under £7) for Black Friday. Despite being available only in the US with international shipping required, the retailer has sold over 100 pairs in the last two days alone.
BoxLunch Gifts specialises in nerd and geek-related products based on games, TV shows, and similar pop culture content. The slippers have become something of an internet sensation, with social media users joking that "once you see it, you can't unsee it" regarding their controversial appearance.
Gaming Merchandise Evolution
This isn't Microsoft's first venture into unusual gaming merchandise. The company previously released an Xbox fridge and toaster, though the Crocs represent their most adventurous footwear collaboration to date.
The timing is strategic, launching just before Christmas when Microsoft acknowledges they're unlikely to sell many Xbox consoles during the holiday season. The limited edition nature of the product suggests scarcity marketing tactics, though neither the duration of availability nor pricing has been confirmed.
Regular Crocs typically range from £25 to £70 or more, suggesting the Xbox version will likely sit at the premium end of this spectrum. Meanwhile, the Kirby slippers offer budget-friendly alternative for gaming enthusiasts seeking comfortable winter footwear.
Both products demonstrate how gaming companies are expanding beyond traditional hardware and software into lifestyle products, creating new revenue streams while strengthening brand loyalty among their fan bases.
