Wrestling, it's just a bunch of big men in pants brushing and touching each other isn't it?
Er, and slamming each other into tables. Well, however hardcore and manly it is, it still commands a lot of respect worldwide - the WWE Smackdown series has seen great success since its debut on the PlayStation all those years ago.
There are closer ties with the WWE corporation itself for the game this time around, with writers for the TV shows creating various scripts for the game and wrestling stars getting involved with motion capture and representation of their personalities on screen. There is the introduction of 'fighting styles' too - a list of eight personalities and attributes, one of which is given to each wrestler to feel different from each other. Before there wasn't much call between playing as Rey Mysterio or Big Show - now the two feel like worlds apart.
Wrestlers designated as 'High Flyers' have a lot of speed and agility, allowing for your character to roll out of tight situations, use the ropes more effectively and to set a 'pin trap' which will reverse any pin made by your opponent. On the other hand, a 'Powerhouse' style will always rely on strength - if a wrestler's arms aren't damaged, they can always break out of a pin, allowing for some strategic play against different fighting styles. 'Powerhouses' also have a Rampage meter, which allows the fighter to become invincible and deal extra damage when full.
Oiled up men, tiny pants and oodles of body slamming. What's not to love?
Special Features
Superstar Fighting Styles: With eight Superstar Fighting Styles to choose from, playing WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2008 will never be the same. Each fighting style has its own unique strategy with exclusive moves, abilities, attributes and more. Take the fight into your own hands and feel the power of the Superstars.
Struggle Submission System: The new struggle Submission System gives players intuitive and natural control over their WWE Superstars using the analog sticks. Realism and strategy are on the forefront, as players can now control the amount of pressure they apply.
ECW Presence: The life of a WWE Superstar isn't always pretty. ECW invades WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2008 with a variety of Superstars, arenas and weapons.
WWE 24/7 Mode: Combining the popular Season and General Manager Modes from previous Smackdown vs. Raw games, WWE 24/7 Mode embraces the intensity of the Superstar lifestyle. Multiple character development options, start tracking and career goals will guide players toward the ultimate achievement of becoming a Legend.
Giving Fans What They Want:WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2008 offers numerous updates, including new rosters, more environmental hotspots, improved out-of-ring action, enhanced online community support and much more!
