A rare discovery in the world of gaming has caught the attention of collectors and enthusiasts alike. Rule of Rose, a once-controversial Japanese PlayStation 2 horror game from developer Punchline, has resurfaced with the reported discovery of a sealed shipment in Italy. This finding has reignited interest in the game, which has become a sought-after collector’s item due to the controversy surrounding its release.
The United Kingdom version of Rule of Rose holds a special place in the hearts of collectors, as the game was never officially released in the region. Back in 2007, Rule of Rose found itself at the center of a moralist campaign in Europe, with then-European Union justice minister Franco Frattini condemning the game for its alleged “obscene cruelty and brutality.” Despite these accusations, the game did see a release in continental Europe, but the planned launch in the United Kingdom was canceled by Italian publisher 505 Games.
The decision to cancel the UK release was influenced by Frattini’s comments, as well as the negative portrayal of the game in the British media. Reports claimed that Rule of Rose contained elements of sadomasochism and underage eroticism, allegations that were later proven to be false. Nevertheless, the controversy surrounding the game only served to fuel its notoriety and increase its allure as a rare collectible.
For years, the absence of an official UK release of Rule of Rose has driven up demand for rare copies of the game featuring the United Kingdom flag on the back of the box. Recently, reports have surfaced of a sealed shipment of the UK version being discovered in Italy. This discovery has had a direct impact on the resale market, with prices for Rule of Rose dropping significantly on platforms like eBay. While the game was once fetching prices nearing $600, it can now be found for around $320. However, with stocks dwindling fast due to increased demand, these reduced prices may not last long.
Despite receiving mixed reviews upon its initial release, Rule of Rose has managed to attract a loyal following over the years. The game’s unique blend of horror and storytelling, coupled with the controversy surrounding its release, has contributed to its cult status among gamers and collectors alike. The discovery of the sealed UK shipment has only added to the game’s mystique, making it a must-have item for those seeking rare and unique pieces for their collections.
The PlayStation 2, on which Rule of Rose was originally released, holds a special place in the history of gaming. Launched in 2000, the console went on to become the most successful of all time, with over 155 million units shipped worldwide. Its extensive library of games, including popular series like Grand Theft Auto, Gran Turismo, Final Fantasy, and Metal Gear Solid, cemented its status as a gaming powerhouse.
As collectors and enthusiasts continue to search for rare and unique pieces to add to their collections, the discovery of the sealed shipment of Rule of Rose in Italy has created a buzz in the gaming community. The game’s turbulent history, combined with its limited availability in certain regions, has made it a highly sought-after item among collectors. Whether you’re a fan of horror games, a collector of rare gaming memorabilia, or simply intrigued by the story behind Rule of Rose, this recent discovery offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of gaming history.
