PowerA Minecraft Grass Block Wireless Controller for Switch Release Date Announced

PowerA announced a new addition to its lineup of Nintendo Switch accessories with the Enhanced Wireless Controller – Minecraft Grass Block edition. The controller’s design is based on the iconic grass block from the popular sandbox game. An Amazon product listing revealed the controller’s release date, setting it for December 10, 2021, with preorders opening up prior to its launch.

Design and Aesthetics

The controller’s primary visual appeal is its faithful recreation of a Minecraft grass block. The faceplate features the pixelated green grass texture, complete with the subtle variations in color that give the game its distinct look. The sides and bottom of the controller casing are styled to look like the block’s earthy, dirt texture, completing the illusion. This design extends across the entire front shell, with the buttons, D-pad, and thumbsticks set against this familiar backdrop.

This aesthetic makes the controller a specialized piece of hardware aimed directly at Minecraft enthusiasts. It aligns with a growing market for themed accessories that allow players to personalize their gaming setup. As an officially licensed product, the design was approved by both Nintendo and Minecraft developer Mojang Studios, ensuring it accurately represents the source material.

Features and Specifications

Beyond its unique appearance, the controller includes the standard features of PowerA’s Enhanced Wireless Controller series. It connects to the Nintendo Switch console via Bluetooth for wireless play.

A key feature is the inclusion of two mappable “Advanced Gaming Buttons” located on the back of the controller’s grips. These buttons can be programmed on-the-fly, even during gameplay, allowing users to assign any other button’s function to them. This provides a competitive edge in some games by enabling quicker access to commands without needing to move thumbs from the analog sticks.

The controller also incorporates embedded anti-friction rings around the thumbsticks. This design element is intended to provide smoother stick motion and reduce wear and tear over time, contributing to the controller’s longevity. The overall shape is ergonomic, closely resembling the form factor of Nintendo’s own Switch Pro Controller, making it comfortable to hold for extended gaming sessions. For power, it relies on two AA batteries, which provide up to 30 hours of gameplay. A low-battery warning is provided via an LED indicator on the face of the controller.

What’s Missing Compared to the Pro Controller?

While the PowerA controller offers many core features, it omits several found in the official Nintendo Switch Pro Controller. This is a common practice for third-party accessories to achieve a more accessible price point.

Specifically, the Minecraft Grass Block controller does not support HD Rumble. This means it has standard vibration motors rather than the nuanced, high-definition haptic feedback used in many first-party Nintendo games. It also lacks an IR camera, a sensor used for specific motion-based functions in titles like 1-2-Switch and some Nintendo Labo kits. Finally, there is no NFC reader, so it cannot be used to scan amiibo figures to unlock in-game content. Players who frequently use these features should consider whether this controller meets their needs.

Release and Other PowerA Minecraft Controllers

The PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch – Minecraft Grass Block was scheduled to be released on December 10, 2021. The product was backed by a two-year limited warranty.

This was not the first Minecraft-themed controller released by PowerA. The company had previously launched other designs for the Switch, including one featuring a Creeper and another modeled after the in-game sword. The Grass Block edition continued this trend, offering fans another way to show their appreciation for the game through their hardware.