Last WWE Game With Chris Benoit: A Look Back

Hey wrestling fans! Today, we're diving into a somewhat sensitive topic: the last WWE game to feature Chris Benoit. It's a subject that brings up a lot of mixed feelings, considering Benoit's tragic end and the subsequent removal of his character from WWE media. So, let's get into it and explore the details surrounding this piece of wrestling history.

The Game in Question: SmackDown vs. Raw 2008

The last WWE game to include Chris Benoit as a playable character was SmackDown vs. Raw 2008. Released in November 2007, this game featured a roster of WWE superstars from both the Raw and SmackDown brands. Benoit, at the time, was a prominent figure in the ECW brand, which was also represented in the game. SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 was available on multiple platforms, including PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii, and PlayStation Portable, allowing fans across different consoles to experience the game.

SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 introduced several new features and improvements over its predecessors. One notable addition was the "Fighting Styles" system, which categorized wrestlers into eight distinct styles, such as High-Flyer, Powerhouse, Showman, Hardcore, Submission, Brawler, Dirty, and Technical. Each style had its own unique set of moves and abilities, adding depth and strategy to the gameplay. Chris Benoit was classified under the Submission fighting style, reflecting his real-life prowess as a skilled technical wrestler known for his Crippler Crossface finisher.

Another significant feature in SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 was the enhanced create-a-superstar mode. This mode allowed players to create their own custom wrestlers with a high degree of personalization, from appearance and attire to move sets and entrances. The game also featured a robust season mode, where players could take their favorite WWE superstars through a year-long career, competing for championships and engaging in rivalries. The game included various match types, such as standard singles matches, tag team matches, cage matches, and the Royal Rumble, providing a diverse range of gameplay experiences.

Chris Benoit's inclusion in SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 meant that players could play as him in various match types, create storylines involving him in season mode, and even pit him against other superstars in exhibition matches. His character model was based on his appearance and move set from his time in ECW, complete with his signature taunts and entrance music. For many fans, this was the last chance to control Benoit in a WWE game, making it a bittersweet memory.

The Aftermath and Benoit's Removal

In June 2007, just a few months before the release of SmackDown vs. Raw 2008, the tragic events involving Chris Benoit and his family occurred. The circumstances surrounding the deaths of Benoit, his wife Nancy, and their son Daniel shocked the world and led to widespread condemnation. WWE immediately distanced itself from Benoit, removing all mentions of him from their website, halting the sale of his merchandise, and ceasing to acknowledge his accomplishments in wrestling history. This also extended to their video game releases.

Following the tragedy, WWE took swift action to remove Chris Benoit from any future games. While SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 had already been released, subsequent WWE games did not include Benoit as a playable character. THQ, the publisher of the SmackDown vs. Raw series, also took steps to minimize Benoit's presence in the game. Although the game was already in stores, they avoided promoting Benoit in any marketing materials and made sure that he was not featured in any promotional artwork or trailers.

The decision to remove Benoit from WWE games was understandable, given the circumstances. WWE wanted to avoid glorifying or profiting from a figure who had committed such heinous acts. It was a sensitive issue that required a delicate approach, and WWE ultimately chose to prioritize the feelings of the victims' families and the broader public. This decision set a precedent for how WWE would handle similar situations in the future, where wrestlers or personalities associated with the company were involved in controversial or criminal activities.

The Impact on WWE Games

The removal of Chris Benoit from WWE games had a significant impact on the wrestling gaming community. For many fans, Benoit was a beloved performer who had contributed greatly to the sport. His absence from future games was a constant reminder of the tragedy and the circumstances surrounding his death. Some fans expressed disappointment that they could no longer play as Benoit in their favorite WWE games, while others understood and supported WWE's decision.

Despite the controversy, WWE games continued to evolve and improve over the years. The SmackDown vs. Raw series eventually transitioned into the WWE 2K franchise, with 2K Sports taking over as the publisher. The WWE 2K games introduced new features, such as improved graphics, more realistic gameplay, and expanded customization options. However, the absence of Chris Benoit remained a notable omission, particularly for fans who had followed his career closely.

The legacy of Chris Benoit in WWE games is a complex and sensitive issue. While his contributions to wrestling cannot be denied, the circumstances surrounding his death make it difficult to celebrate his achievements without acknowledging the tragedy. As a result, WWE has chosen to err on the side of caution and avoid including Benoit in their games, a decision that continues to be debated and discussed by fans.

Remembering SmackDown vs. Raw 2008

SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 holds a unique place in WWE gaming history. It was the last game to feature Chris Benoit as a playable character, marking the end of an era. The game itself was a solid entry in the SmackDown vs. Raw series, with its innovative fighting styles system, enhanced create-a-superstar mode, and robust season mode. It offered a wide range of gameplay experiences and allowed players to immerse themselves in the world of WWE.

For those who played SmackDown vs. Raw 2008, the memory of controlling Chris Benoit in the game may evoke mixed emotions. On one hand, it's a reminder of his talent and skill as a wrestler. On the other hand, it's impossible to separate his in-game persona from the tragic events that unfolded in his personal life. The game serves as a time capsule, capturing a moment in WWE history before everything changed.

Despite the controversy, SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 remains a popular game among wrestling fans. It's often discussed and debated in online forums and social media groups, with players sharing their memories and experiences with the game. Some fans have even created mods and patches to re-introduce Chris Benoit into newer WWE games, demonstrating the enduring interest in his character.

Conclusion

The last WWE game to feature Chris Benoit was SmackDown vs. Raw 2008. This game represents a complex and controversial chapter in WWE history. The tragedy associated with Benoit's name has led to his removal from all subsequent WWE media, including video games. While SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 remains a reminder of his presence in the virtual wrestling world, it also serves as a somber reflection on the real-life events that forever changed the wrestling industry. It's a piece of history that sparks discussion, debate, and a range of emotions among wrestling fans worldwide.

So there you have it, folks! A look back at the last WWE game to feature Chris Benoit. It's a complicated topic, but one that's important to understand for anyone interested in the history of WWE and its video games. What are your thoughts on this? Let me know in the comments below!