Abstract: A video game system and method is provided in which the enabled content of a video game depends upon the type of video game controller coupled to the video game console. Specifically, in response to recognizing the video game controller as being of a matching type, the video game enables or “unlocks” extra features or “secrets” of the video game which are not otherwise available. By creating such a strong synergy between the video game and the matching video game controller, consumers are most likely to be attracted to the matching video game controller instead of other game controllers available in the marketplace.