Video games rely heavily on controllers for gameplay, and these devices have undergone significant evolution. What once were simple wired blocks with minimal controls have transformed into complex gadgets with multiple buttons, joysticks, speakers, and advanced technologies, often rivaling the cost of the latest games, if not surpassing it.
Controllers have not only evolved in functionality but also in design, with some taking unconventional shapes and forms to enhance the gaming experience. These unique controllers have been introduced for major gaming consoles, offering players a different way to interact with their favorite games.
10 The Wu-Tang Pad
A Unique Collectible
- Platform: PlayStation.
- Manufacturer: Activision.
- Fun Fact: The Wu-Tang Pad has gained popularity as a decorative item, fetching high prices in online markets.
The Wu-Tang Pad emerged from a series of events involving the cancellation and revival of a game, resulting in a unique controller modeled after the Wu-Tang Clan's logo. Although bulky and awkward to use, with smaller and harder-to-press buttons, the pad stands as a curious piece of gaming history and a sought-after collectible.
9 CharacteriSticks
Quirky Controller Designs
- Platforms: Master System, Genesis, NES, Commodore 64, and more.
- Manufacturer: Cheetah.
- Fun Fact: CharacteriSticks featured joystick models shaped like famous characters from movies and TV shows.
Cheetah's CharacteriSticks introduced a range of joysticks shaped like iconic characters, offering a novel but uncomfortable gaming experience. From Batman to Bart Simpson, these controllers added a unique touch to gameplay, although their ergonomic design often left much to be desired.
8 Resident Evil 4 Chainsaw Controller
Intensifying the Horror
- Platforms: Gamecube, PlayStation 2.
- Manufacturer: Nuby Tech.
- Fun Fact: The prototype of the Chainsaw Controller emitted chainsaw sounds when the ripcord was pulled.
The Chainsaw Controller for Resident Evil 4 brought a new level of immersion by replicating the game's intense atmosphere. With hidden shoulder buttons and a weighty build, this controller aimed to enhance the gaming experience, albeit at the cost of comfort during extended gameplay sessions.