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

Chris Benoit, a name synonymous with technical wrestling prowess and intense in-ring performance, left an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling. While his career was tragically cut short and his legacy remains a complex and controversial topic, his presence in WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 is a snapshot of a time when he was considered one of the industry's top performers. This article aims to provide a retrospective look at Chris Benoit's inclusion in the game, his moveset, attributes, and overall impact within the virtual WWE landscape. It's important to acknowledge the sensitive nature of his history while focusing on his portrayal within the context of the video game.

Benoit's Inclusion in SmackDown vs. Raw 2007

Back in 2006, when SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 was being developed, Chris Benoit was an active and prominent member of the WWE roster. He was a former World Heavyweight Champion, Intercontinental Champion, and a multiple-time tag team champion. His in-ring skills were highly respected, and he was known for his dedication to the craft. Therefore, his inclusion in the game was a no-brainer. He was a significant draw for fans, and his virtual counterpart allowed players to experience his signature moves and wrestling style.

SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 aimed to provide an authentic WWE experience, and that meant including the top stars of the era. Benoit's character model was designed to reflect his real-life appearance, from his signature intense gaze to his accurate wrestling attire. The game developers meticulously captured his physical features and incorporated them into the digital representation. This attention to detail was crucial for creating a sense of realism and immersion for players who wanted to step into the virtual ring as Chris Benoit.

His inclusion also provided a range of gameplay options. Players could take control of Benoit in various match types, including singles matches, tag team bouts, and even the Royal Rumble. They could relive classic Benoit rivalries or create entirely new ones. The game allowed fans to book their dream matches and see how Benoit would fare against other WWE legends and contemporary stars. This level of customization and control was a key selling point for the SmackDown vs. Raw series, and Benoit's presence added to the overall depth and replayability of the game.

Moveset and Attributes

One of the key aspects of any wrestling game is the accuracy of the wrestlers' movesets. SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 did a commendable job of capturing Chris Benoit's signature maneuvers. His Crippler Crossface, his most famous submission hold, was faithfully recreated, allowing players to lock it in on their opponents and force them to tap out. Other signature moves, such as the diving headbutt, the rolling German suplexes, and the sharpshooter, were also included, making his virtual representation feel authentic.

The diving headbutt, in particular, was a move that defined Benoit's in-ring style. It was a high-risk maneuver that showcased his willingness to sacrifice his body for the sake of the match. In the game, the diving headbutt was portrayed with the same level of intensity and impact, allowing players to experience the thrill (and the virtual pain) of executing the move. The rolling German suplexes, another Benoit staple, were also well-represented, with the game capturing the fluidity and precision of the move.

Beyond his signature moves, Benoit's general wrestling style was also reflected in his attributes. He was portrayed as a technically sound wrestler with high grappling and submission stats. This meant that he excelled at mat-based wrestling and was difficult to defeat once he locked in a submission hold. His stamina and resilience were also above average, reflecting his reputation as a tireless performer who could go the distance in even the most grueling matches. However, his striking ability was not as emphasized, which accurately reflected his real-life strengths and weaknesses.

The game also allowed players to customize Benoit's attributes and moveset to some extent. While his core skills remained consistent with his real-life persona, players could adjust certain parameters to suit their individual playstyles. This level of customization added to the depth of the gameplay experience and allowed players to create their own unique version of Chris Benoit within the virtual WWE universe.

Impact Within the Virtual WWE Landscape

Chris Benoit's inclusion in SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 had a significant impact on the game's overall landscape. He was a popular choice among players who appreciated his technical wrestling style and his ability to put on compelling matches. His presence added another layer of depth to the game's roster and provided players with a diverse range of wrestling styles to choose from. He was also a formidable opponent in the game's various modes, posing a challenge to even the most experienced players.

In the game's story mode, players could interact with Benoit and even form alliances with him. This allowed them to experience his character beyond the confines of the ring and gain a deeper understanding of his motivations and personality. The story mode also provided opportunities to recreate classic Benoit rivalries or create entirely new ones, adding to the game's replayability. His presence in the story mode added a sense of authenticity and realism to the game's narrative.

Online multiplayer was another area where Benoit's presence was felt. Players could pit their virtual Benoit against other players from around the world, testing their skills and strategies against a diverse range of opponents. This competitive element added another layer of excitement to the game and allowed players to showcase their mastery of Benoit's moveset and wrestling style. Online matches featuring Benoit were often intense and strategic, as players tried to exploit his strengths and weaknesses.

However, due to the tragic circumstances surrounding his death, Chris Benoit's presence in WWE games has become a sensitive issue. He has been removed from subsequent WWE games, and his name is rarely mentioned in official WWE programming. This is a reflection of the complex and controversial nature of his legacy. While his contributions to professional wrestling are undeniable, his actions outside the ring have cast a dark shadow over his career.

The Controversy and Its Aftermath

As we all know, the story of Chris Benoit is unfortunately not just about wrestling. The tragic events of June 2007, when Benoit murdered his wife and son before taking his own life, cast a dark shadow over his entire legacy. The wrestling world and the public were shocked and horrified by the news. WWE immediately distanced themselves from Benoit, removing his merchandise from their stores and ceasing to acknowledge his accomplishments.

The tragedy also had a significant impact on the WWE video games. While SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 remained in circulation, Benoit's character was removed from subsequent games. This decision was understandable, given the sensitivity of the situation. Including Benoit in future games would have been seen as insensitive and disrespectful to the victims and their families. It also would have opened up WWE to criticism and controversy.

The removal of Benoit from WWE games was not without its critics. Some fans argued that his accomplishments in the ring should be recognized, regardless of his personal failings. They felt that erasing him from history was unfair and that his contributions to the sport should not be forgotten. However, WWE's decision was ultimately driven by a desire to be respectful and responsible.

The controversy surrounding Chris Benoit serves as a reminder of the complexities of separating the art from the artist. While his in-ring skills were undeniable, his actions outside the ring cannot be ignored. His legacy will forever be tainted by the tragedy he caused. It's a somber chapter in the history of professional wrestling, and one that should not be forgotten.

Conclusion

Chris Benoit's inclusion in WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 provides a glimpse into a time when he was regarded as one of the top wrestlers in the world. His virtual representation captured his signature moves, his technical wrestling style, and his intense persona. However, his legacy remains complex and controversial due to the tragic events that occurred later in his life. While his contributions to professional wrestling are undeniable, his actions outside the ring have cast a dark shadow over his career. His presence in the game serves as a reminder of both his accomplishments and the tragedy that ultimately defined his story. It is a complex legacy that continues to be debated and discussed to this day. Despite the controversy, SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 remains a snapshot of a time when Chris Benoit was a major figure in the world of professional wrestling, and his inclusion in the game reflects that reality. However, it is important to approach this topic with sensitivity and awareness of the tragic circumstances surrounding his life and death.