Many gamers are passionate about exclusive controllers. They offer fans of a specific franchise a tangible way to showcase their devotion to a game or series, often featuring unique designs and heralding the arrival of a major release. However, in recent times, these special controllers seem to have become less prevalent, with color variations taking precedence over game-themed editions.
While Nintendo continues to release captivating limited edition Switch consoles that exemplify the appeal of exclusive hardware, they are predominantly available as part of a complete console bundle rather than as standalone controllers. Numerous titles merit the exclusive controller treatment, yet regrettably, only a handful have had this privilege.
7 Need For Speed Unbound
A Need for Stylish Representation
When contemplating stylish limited edition controllers, racing games may not be the first genre that comes to mind. However, Need for Speed Unbound is a prime contender.
As one of the more visually striking Need for Speed installments, it seamlessly blends cel-shading and graffiti art with a realistic art style. Consequently, gamers were treated to a sleek racer with graffiti artistry that leapt from the screen. It's easy to envision this style transforming the standard game controller into something extraordinary.
6 Assassin's Creed Origins
A Fresh Start, Accompanied by a Unique Controller
Assassin's Creed Origins marked the franchise's rejuvenated RPG style, taking fans back to the origins with Medjay Bayek in ancient Egypt. This was the ideal opportunity to commemorate the occasion with a themed controller, symbolizing the transformation.
The game's Egyptian theme alone offered numerous exceptional design concepts. The controller could have integrated the game's golden theme, and Egyptian hieroglyphs could have resulted in a truly remarkable gamepad.
5 Mortal Kombat 1
Conclude with Elegance
Few franchises have endured as long as Mortal Kombat. The game made its debut to gamers in 1992, and the franchise has continued to thrive, with the most recent entries proving to be resounding successes for many gamers due to the visceral fatalities, responsive combat, and beloved characters.
Following the events of Mortal Kombat 11, Mortal Kombat 1 was set to introduce a brand-new timeline, resetting the universe - a momentous occasion that warranted the release of a limited edition controller for fans to celebrate. Whether the controller drew inspiration from the series' most iconic fighters or its extensive history, there was an abundance of material to create a fitting controller that fans would have adored.
4 Cassette Beasts
Hit Record in Style
Cassette Beasts was one of the standout indie releases in 2023. Developer Bytten Studio revitalized the well-known Pokemon formula, infusing the genre with fresh gameplay mechanics, an exceptional soundtrack, and an appealing visual style that solidified its status as a must-play for any Pokemon enthusiast.
With an array of vibrant and imaginative monster designs, the potential to create a truly stunning indie controller existed, one that could commemorate all the aspects that make Cassette Beasts exceptional.
3 Borderlands
Unleash Cel-Shaded Excellence
The Borderlands franchise is undoubtedly a top choice for gamers seeking an exceptional looter-shooter title. The franchise's striking cel-shaded visuals, alongside the engaging humor and diverse range of inventive weapons, have endeared it to countless gamers.
The Borderlands franchise offers abundant inspiration for an outstanding limited edition controller. It could encompass the array of remarkable characters and iconic Psycho masks to truly bring the controller to life. Unfortunately, this concept has yet to materialize.
2 Ghost of Tsushima
Reclaim the Homeland with Flair
Ghost of Tsushima is widely regarded as one of PlayStation's premier exclusives. Set amidst the stunning Japanese island of Tsushima, the game was replete with numerous breathtaking moments and artistic sequences, akin to a dramatic painting brought to life.
A limited edition controller could have drawn inspiration from Jin's gold and black ghost ensemble or incorporated the falling leaves, akin to The CaliWorkshop's exquisite custom controller for the game. In essence, there were numerous exceptional artistic possibilities. It's unfortunate that Sony did not release a final limited edition controller for one of PlayStation 4's standout exclusives.
1 Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora
Embrace the Na'vi Aesthetic
Everyone is familiar with Avatar. Despite its release in 2009, the film remains the highest-grossing movie of all time, owing in part to the visually captivating world of Pandora and its inhabitants. The film universe has since expanded with the 2022 sequel, Avatar: The Way of Water, and the 2023 game Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora, presenting the perfect opportunity for a limited edition controller.
The game has captivated players as much as the film did for movie enthusiasts, and with indications that the game could influence future movies, a limited edition controller would have been an ideal way to celebrate the entire universe. Whether drawing inspiration from the planet of Pandora itself or the skin of the indigenous Na'vi, there's no doubt that a limited edition controller would have astounded gamers and enthusiasts alike.