Chris Benoit In WWE SmackDown Vs. Raw 2007: A Retrospective

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Chris Benoit in WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007: A Retrospective

Let's dive into the complex and controversial topic of Chris Benoit's presence in WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007. For many wrestling game fans, the SmackDown vs. Raw series holds a special place, and the 2007 edition is no exception. However, the inclusion of Chris Benoit in this game brings about mixed feelings due to the tragic events that occurred shortly after its release. This article aims to provide a detailed look at Benoit's role in the game, his character attributes, moves, and the overall impact of his presence considering the circumstances.

Chris Benoit's In-Game Character

In WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007, Chris Benoit was featured as one of the prominent members of the SmackDown! roster. His character was designed to reflect his real-life wrestling persona, complete with his signature moves, ring attire, and overall appearance. The game developers at THQ (now defunct) meticulously crafted his character to ensure authenticity and accuracy, making him a formidable opponent in the virtual ring.

Attributes and Abilities

Benoit's in-game attributes were tailored to represent his real-world wrestling style. He was portrayed as a highly skilled technical wrestler with exceptional grappling and submission abilities. His strength, speed, and stamina were also rated favorably, making him a well-rounded and versatile character. Players who chose to play as Chris Benoit could utilize his impressive skillset to dominate opponents in various match types.

Key attributes that defined Chris Benoit's character in the game included:

  • Grappling: High scores in grappling allowed players to execute a wide range of suplexes, takedowns, and holds, reflecting Benoit's technical prowess.
  • Submission: Benoit was renowned for his submission skills, particularly the Crippler Crossface. His in-game character had a high submission rating, making it easier to lock in submission holds and force opponents to tap out.
  • Technical: This attribute governed Benoit's ability to perform complex wrestling maneuvers and counters. Players could use his technical skills to outsmart opponents and gain an advantage in matches.
  • Stamina: Benoit's real-life reputation as a relentless competitor was reflected in his high stamina rating. This allowed players to maintain a high level of performance throughout long and grueling matches.

Signature Moves and Finishers

One of the most exciting aspects of playing as Chris Benoit in SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 was the ability to perform his signature moves and finishers. These moves were accurately recreated in the game, allowing players to experience the thrill of executing them on their opponents. Some of Benoit's most iconic moves included:

  • Crippler Crossface: This was Benoit's primary finishing move and arguably his most recognizable hold. In the game, the Crippler Crossface was a devastating submission hold that could quickly end matches if applied correctly.
  • German Suplex: Benoit was known for his various suplex variations, with the German Suplex being a staple of his move set. Players could perform multiple German Suplexes in a row, wearing down their opponents and setting them up for the Crippler Crossface.
  • Diving Headbutt: Another signature move, the Diving Headbutt, showcased Benoit's willingness to put his body on the line. This move was particularly effective when used strategically, allowing players to inflict significant damage on their opponents.
  • Snap Suplex: A quick and impactful move, the Snap Suplex was often used to gain momentum and control in matches. It was a versatile move that could be incorporated into various offensive strategies.

Gameplay Experience

Playing as Chris Benoit in WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 offered a unique and engaging gameplay experience. His well-rounded attributes and diverse move set made him a popular choice among players who favored technical wrestling and submission-based strategies. Whether competing in singles matches, tag team bouts, or championship contests, Benoit's character provided players with the tools to succeed in the virtual wrestling world.

Match Types and Scenarios

Chris Benoit was a viable option in virtually every match type available in the game. His ability to endure punishment and apply effective submission holds made him particularly well-suited for grueling match types such as Iron Man matches and Submission matches. Additionally, his technical skills allowed him to excel in traditional wrestling matches where strategy and precision were paramount.

Players could also create various scenarios and storylines involving Chris Benoit in the game's Season Mode and General Manager Mode. This allowed for a high degree of customization and replayability, as players could craft their own unique wrestling universe and determine Benoit's place within it. Whether he was challenging for championships, feuding with rivals, or forming alliances with other wrestlers, the possibilities were virtually endless.

Community Reception

At the time of the game's release, Chris Benoit's inclusion was generally well-received by the WWE gaming community. Fans appreciated the attention to detail in his character design and move set, and many enjoyed the challenge of mastering his technical wrestling style. Online forums and message boards were filled with discussions about the best ways to utilize Benoit's abilities and strategies for overcoming opponents.

However, the tragic events of June 2007 cast a dark shadow over Benoit's legacy and subsequently impacted his portrayal in WWE-related media. The circumstances surrounding his death led to his removal from future WWE games and a general distancing from his character in official WWE programming.

The Controversy and Its Aftermath

The tragic events of June 2007, involving the death of Chris Benoit, his wife, and his son, had a profound impact on the wrestling world and the perception of his character in WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007. Following the incident, WWE took steps to remove Benoit from its official history and distanced itself from his legacy.

Removal from Subsequent Games

In the wake of the tragedy, WWE made the decision to remove Chris Benoit from all future WWE video games. This meant that he would not be featured in subsequent installments of the SmackDown vs. Raw series or any other WWE-licensed games. While WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 remained in circulation, Benoit's character was effectively erased from the company's gaming future.

Impact on WWE's Historical Content

In addition to his removal from video games, WWE also took steps to remove Chris Benoit from its historical content. His matches and segments were edited out of classic WWE shows on the WWE Network, and his name was largely omitted from discussions of WWE history. This decision was made in response to the sensitive nature of the circumstances surrounding his death and the desire to avoid glorifying or celebrating his career.

Fan Reactions and Modding Community

Despite WWE's efforts to distance itself from Chris Benoit, many fans continued to remember and discuss his career. Online forums and gaming communities became hubs for sharing information, memories, and opinions about Benoit's contributions to professional wrestling. Some fans even created mods and custom content to reintroduce Benoit's character into WWE games, allowing them to continue playing as him in unofficial capacities.

The Ethical Considerations

The inclusion of Chris Benoit in WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 raises several ethical considerations, particularly in light of the tragic events that followed its release. The decision to feature a real-life person in a video game carries certain responsibilities, especially when that person is later involved in a highly publicized and disturbing incident.

Representation and Responsibility

Game developers and publishers must consider the potential impact of portraying real-life individuals in their games. While the goal is often to create authentic and engaging experiences, there is also a responsibility to avoid glorifying or celebrating individuals who have committed harmful acts. In the case of Chris Benoit, the decision to include him in SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 was made before the tragic events occurred, but the subsequent controversy raised questions about the appropriateness of continuing to feature his character.

Balancing Entertainment and Sensitivity

Video games are primarily designed for entertainment, but they can also serve as platforms for exploring complex and sensitive topics. When dealing with real-life events and individuals, it is important to strike a balance between providing entertainment and showing sensitivity to the victims and those affected by the events. This can be a difficult task, as different people may have varying opinions on what is appropriate and respectful.

The Role of Context

Context is crucial when evaluating the ethical implications of featuring Chris Benoit in WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007. At the time of the game's release, Benoit was a popular and respected figure in the wrestling world. His inclusion in the game was a natural extension of his role as a prominent WWE performer. However, the subsequent tragedy changed the context entirely, making it necessary to reevaluate the appropriateness of his continued presence in the game.

Conclusion

Chris Benoit's presence in WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 remains a complex and sensitive topic. While his character was accurately and authentically represented in the game, the tragic events that followed his death cast a dark shadow over his legacy. WWE's decision to remove him from future games and historical content reflects the company's desire to distance itself from the controversy and avoid glorifying his actions. However, many fans continue to remember and discuss his career, highlighting the enduring impact he had on the wrestling world. Ultimately, the inclusion of Chris Benoit in WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 serves as a reminder of the ethical considerations involved in portraying real-life individuals in video games and the importance of balancing entertainment with sensitivity.

Whether you view it as a nostalgic trip back to a different era of wrestling gaming or as a stark reminder of a tragic chapter in WWE history, one thing is certain: Chris Benoit's presence in WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 will continue to spark debate and discussion for years to come. His legacy is forever intertwined with the game, making it a unique and unforgettable entry in the SmackDown vs. Raw series. This game, while remaining a product of its time, also stands as a testament to the challenges of reconciling entertainment with the complexities of real-life events. It encourages us to consider the responsibilities that come with representing public figures in media and the importance of remembering the human element behind even the most sensational stories. The game is a snapshot of a moment in time, capturing Chris Benoit as a performer before his actions led to a tragic end, creating a complicated legacy that continues to be debated and analyzed by wrestling fans and gamers alike. The very existence of his character in the game serves as a reminder of how quickly perceptions can change and how important it is to approach sensitive topics with empathy and understanding.