One of the quirkiest and most peculiar pieces of gaming history is the ‘chainsaw controller’ that was released alongside Resident Evil 4. While it has earned a special place in the hearts of Resident Evil fans, it also stands as one of the most impractical gaming peripherals ever designed.
Manufactured by NubyTech in 2005, a limited run of 50,000 chainsaw controllers was produced. These unique controllers came in two variants: a yellow one for the Nintendo Gamecube and an orange one for the PlayStation 2. Each unit boasts a serial number, adding an element of uniqueness to every piece. These days, the chainsaw controller has become a sought-after collector’s item, with prices on auction sites like eBay ranging from $400 to $1,500, depending on the controller’s condition.
As the owner of one of these peculiar controllers, I can attest that using it for gaming is far from ideal. The button layout is notably unintuitive. The face buttons are oddly positioned and resemble the size of Nintendo Switch Joy-Con buttons. The analog sticks are similarly diminutive, and the Start/Select buttons are placed quite far from the rest of the controls.
The most frustrating part, however, is the layout of the shoulder and trigger buttons. L1 and R1 are under each grip, while L2 and R2 sit at the base of the controller perpendicular to the rest of the buttons. This layout makes playing games, particularly those requiring precise aiming and shooting, a formidable challenge.
Playing games with the chainsaw controller is a challenging endeavor. The button layout doesn’t lend itself to smooth gameplay, making it better suited for gimmick playthroughs than serious gaming.
Despite its impracticality as a gaming device, the chainsaw controller is undeniably a remarkable collector’s item. Its build quality is exceptional, and it’s surprisingly lightweight given its distinctive shape. NubyTech went to great lengths to add unique touches to each of the 50,000 controllers, including a distinctive blood splatter pattern on the blade and a metal plaque with a serial number. The left grip features rubberized texture, and there are bloody thumbprints to guide your hand placement.
NubyTech clearly designed the chainsaw controller to be more of an ornamental piece. It comes in a plastic box that mimics the look of wood and glass, and even the base is covered with a red felt carpet, adding a touch of prestige to its display.
In summary, while the Resident Evil 4 chainsaw controller may not be a practical choice for gaming, it shines as a unique collector’s item. Its eye-catching design and limited availability make it a conversation starter and a cherished piece of gaming history for enthusiasts and collectors.
