Twenty years ago, Resident Evil 4 was released on the Nintendo GameCube in the United States, marking a significant milestone in the survival horror genre. However, its release was not simultaneous worldwide, with Japan and Europe receiving the game on January 27 and March 18, respectively. This staggered release was not uncommon at the time, but it has become less prevalent in modern gaming.
The game’s launch on other platforms, including the PlayStation 2, PC, Wii, and mobile phones, further highlights the complexity of its release. This was partly due to the different regions and platforms having distinct release schedules, which has since become less common.
Despite the challenges, Resident Evil 4 remains a beloved game, and its release is still remembered fondly by many gamers. The game’s impact on the survival horror genre cannot be overstated, and its influence can still be seen in modern games.
The Rare Chainsaw Controller
One of the most interesting aspects of Resident Evil 4’s release was the rare chainsaw controller that accompanied it. Designed by NubyTech, this controller was shaped like a chainsaw and was compatible with the GameCube and PlayStation 2 consoles.
Although the controller was functional, its design was more geared towards collectors than casual players. The chainsaw shape made it impractical for extended gaming sessions, but it was a unique and eye-catching accessory.
The controller’s design was inspired by the game’s enemies, the Chainsaw Men and Chainsaw Sisters, who wielded yellow and red chainsaws, respectively. The controller’s color scheme reflected this, with the GameCube version featuring a yellow chainsaw and the PlayStation 2 version featuring a red one.
A Collector’s Item
Despite its impracticality, the chainsaw controller has become a sought-after collector’s item. The attention to detail in its design, including the recreation of the game’s houses on the box, demonstrates NubyTech’s commitment to creating a unique and memorable accessory.
While the controller may not have been the most comfortable or practical, it has become a beloved piece of gaming history. Its rarity and unique design have made it a highly sought-after item among collectors and fans of the Resident Evil series.